Hi Everyone! I have looked through the threads and cant seem to find where my particular problem has been talked about so hope I am not duplicating.

1985 Series III XJ6. 111k miles. FYI, I have NO mechanical experience, just a love of my Jag!

For a few months, while in Park, I would try and start it and get an aweful sound! Like the car was already running and I tried to start it again. You know that sound? Grinding?? So, If I push the gear lever harder into Park, and try again, it was fine!

Then, 2 weeks ago, very slow cranking to start engine. Lasted a week. Then last week after parked overnight. Wouldnt start. When try to start, get one single, "click" and that is it! Sounded like click was near the firewall. I dont know anything, so bought a new starter and had it installed by a friend. but, same problem exists! Battery-brand new, very strong with lights, radio, dash, etc.

I hope I provided enough details to have someone tell me possible issues and things that I, as a complete novice can do to try and repair.

Thanks Jag Forums

 

OK,

The info that you know NOTHING, is good to have, thank you.

That 'click" near the firewall is the Starter Relay. So, locate that relay, get a friend to activate the key and find the click.

One of the wires on that relay is a "White/Red stripe" wire. This is the wire that goes TO the starter and activates it. It is well known to be loose (not tight) on the spade terminal on the relay, not good. Also part way down that wire is a "spade joiner" also known to loosen up with age. Address both of those issues and see if anything changes.

NO, OK.

Now CAREFULLY (battery disconnected) mark the wires on that relay, remove that relay, prise open the tin can lid, carefully, using "Super fine" Wet/Dry paper, clean the contacts inside, and then wipe them with a paper towel, or spray with cleaning solvent (if you have it). Reassemble, try it on the car.

Since I read you are having issues with the neutral start switch in the "P" position, use the "N" section for now (HANDBRAKE ON). Adjustment of the "P" position can wait for later, lets get the beast alive first.

I'm off to work now, so I will check back later.

 

Grant,

What GREAT information! Thank you so much for taking the time to write all that out! I will be doing this tomorrow, when the sun is up. I will post another reply as soon as I am done.

Thank you again for your time, I cant wait to try this!

 

All of your advise was spot on! I had to get under the car to reach all the wires and once I found the White with red stripe I tightened them all, tightened them in the box near the firewall and then with an anxious heart turned the key-- She started right up! Just like a champ, I was so proud! So, thank you so very much for your advise! This forum R O C K S!