I'm looking at a 1986 XJ6 for sale here in California for the wife.

I own a '84 XJS and I'm VERY familiar with the "XJ" series/platform (Series 1 though 3, and all XJS) cars.

Other than head-gasket issues/replacing (been there, done that 20-years ago).

On a 4.2 Series 3 "XJ6"; What mechanical issues on the 4.2 should I be looking out for?


TIA,

Chad

1984 XJS 5.3
1995 XJR-6
1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0

 

The only other thing I can think of is a 'stake down kit' for the tappet guides.

The stake downs prevent the tappet guides from walking upwards and crashing into the camshaft

The last 2-3 years of 4.2 production are known to have had some crankshaft issues. I doubt there's any cause for concern now, however. It's a fair bet that any problematic engines were replaced under warranty... or were sent to scrapyards years and years ago.

Oil leaks can be a problem on the old XK engines but, then again, quite often a bad leak is brought into 'tolerable' range by simply cleaning the crankcase breather system.

Cheers
DD

 

Good to see you Doug,

I just read your "XJLovers Buy/Sell Info" page. The information about the tappet guides on the XK engine was very interesting. As far as possible PITA mechanical (suspension/brakes, etc) problems; there's probably nothing I haven't already had to do on my XJS, as we know it shares a lot of the design and parts with XJ6/XJ12.

Best regards,

Chad

 

The only things I would add are:


1. Leaking rear brake calipers and/or differential seals.


2. Rust and leaking front and rear window screens.


3. Raggedy a... wires under the bonnet.


Enjoy it.


Carl

 

You mention head gasket problems, so you are no doubt aware of the block cracking problem on the long stud engines. However an '86 will have the slotted block which makes things a lot better.

Only other thing is the EFI as this was the first XJ to have it, (OK there were a few Series 2s got it as well very late). Fuel pump, and the fuel valves can be a real PITA as can be the MAF. This has two tiny contacts inside the electronics box (see under the black cover), and the supply to the fuel pump relay goes through these silly little contacts, If the arms get a bit weak, you can be powering past a line of traffic when the engine suddenly stops on you. This can almost cause you to lay a pile of stuff in your pants !!

It is mentioned in the AJ6 Engineering website article on the 4.2 EFI engine. It makes good reading with a beer and small whisky in yourhand !

 

if you own a '84 XJ-S, then you already know all you ever wanted to know about the '86 XJ, they are essentially the same car, just a different body.

 

I sincerely appreciate the responses to my plea for pre-purchase help.

'long story short.. We (my wife and I) are in negotiation for possibly the nicest XJ6 (XJ40) that I've seen in last 10-years.

@Doug: Thanks Doug, Your knowledge of Jags (especially X300 XJR's) is both reknowned and respected in the Jag community. Though I parted with my '95 XJR (hence my username "BlownKitty") last year, It was probably the most fantastic car in both looks and performance that I've owned.

@Jose: You have a 1964 S-Type !?!? Do you have any pics of yours available? I bought a "barn find" '63 S-Type 3.8 a few years ago.. though I had to sell "Sophie" before I could restore her.. she was a wonderful automobile.. IMHO S-Type 3.8 cars are the embodiment of "Grace, Pace and Space".. with E-Type performance to boot!.

Thanks again Guys!

Chad & Janet