Hi all, A brief intro as a newbie to this section. Until recently I had an X300 and in the past I've mainly been in that domain.

The X300 has gone to live in Adelaide and I've just purchased a 1984 Series III Sovereign. I know, I know - chalk and cheese, what am I thinking? etc. Simple really, always wanted a Series III, always loved the look. Anyway, we buy Jags mostly with the heart and not the head otherwise we'd all be bored to death in our Corolla's wouldn't we?

This one is a bit out of the ordinary - Total rebuild in 2000 (by a highly respected Melbourne Jag specialist) stripped to the shell, full repaint, interior refurb, engine rebuild from the crank up, 4sp GM T700 replaced the 3sp auto, upgraded suspension, steering, cooling system (twin thermals) and electrics. ZERO rust. All the rebuild paperwork incl. progress photos come with it, plus it's been serviced by the same firm every 10,000 km ever since.

Do I think I've found a trouble free ride? Nope, I'm not totally naive! But I am hoping that any issues, at least in the short term won't be too major. Plenty of tinkering fun will surely be on the cards though. Time will tell.

Mostly, I'll be soaking up all the valuable knowledge shared on here to learn as much as possible about the SIII. Look forward to communicating with you guys.

Cheers,

 

Hi Jagent,

I've always had a soft spot for Series 3's as well, so hopped in the deep end earlier this year and dumped the econo appliance for my 85.

Did my sums and am happier this way. No monthly car repayments and I get to tinker under the bonnet without that "wtf I need a diagnostic computer scenario" although that would be handy right now trying to find my intermittent hot no start issue, but hey...grass is always greener...

I've set mine up for everyday driving and am loving it.

The ONLY thing I would like to change, but it won't too soon is the fuel consumption!

I hope you get half as much enjoyment from yours as I do mine

Caulfield is a nice area to find well sorted rebuild Jag XJ6 S3's I hear!

Happy motoring,

Nigel

 

Welcome back Tony, looking forward to seeing the new toy on the next run. Sounds like you have something you can enjoy without having to wrestle with it too much.

 

what kind of trouble are you having?

1984 was a very good year for Jaguars, they had ( Sir ) John Egan at quality control since 1982 and he did turn things around quality-wise. He was later kidnapped by Aston Martin where he performed the same miracle or else.

I have owned a 1984 XJ-6 since 1989, best car I ever had in terms of mechanical reliability once I took care of some lack-of-maintenance issues. I liked it so much I bought another Jag.

 

Hopefully I'll have no trouble! My cautious view is based on much anecdotal evidence suggesting that whilst being beautiful and desirable models, '80's XJ's can be a high maintenance proposition. Really pleased to hear of your experience with an '84, I'm hopeful that my new acquisition will prove as reliable as yours. Despite it's rebuild and service history I am realistic enough to be expecting a few "lack of maintenance issues" with mine, but maybe that's where the fun is.

 

Thanks Steve, looking forward to bringing along!

 

remember this: All Jaguars leak.

 

Cheers Nigel. Yes, mine was rebuilt by Caulfield Jag. BTW, do you check-in at the Vic/Tas forum? A few of the forum guys get together for runs now and then if you're interested in joining us. Very relaxed and social - details of the next run in Sept are posted so you're most welcome to join in!

 

Hi Tony,

Thanks, I have been watching the Vic/Tas forum and yes I am one of the 600 watching without replying...

My problem is kids, sport, weekend taxi......(They get a nice ride though!!)...

Also wifey has barely spoken to me since I brought this home without declaring it.. US Customs is easier, I swear.

I wrongly thought ask forgiveness, not permission...Well....

I'm in the wine game, so a wine related Sunday cruise should be my bread and butter.

I will come along one day, but the stars have to align just so.

If you guys are looking for a winery on the Peninsula, Foxeys' Hangout is pretty cool, but you may need to let them know. I can make enquiries on your behalf if you would like as I know them.

Cheers,

Nigel

 

Jaguars do NOT leak, they merely mark their territory like any cat!

Welcome to the section, Tony, you'll like it in here.
ElinorB
(';')

 

Hi ElinorB,

Marking their territory is fine.

It's when you suspect a case of diarrhea that you get concerned.

Cheers,

Nigel

 

I like my 83. I've put up with a major failure, and a recent travail. A lesser car would've gone to Pick n Pull or donated to ARF!!!


For the most part, I can fix it's ailments. fun to drive.


All this and no car payments, it doesn't get any better.


Caveat, my trusty old Jeep backs it up well.


Paid cash for both. I've no made car payments since circa 89. Kinda neat..


Carl.

 

I guess we've all been there Nigel, risky strategy. Giving permission is their right and discretion, whereas forgiveness - well, it's guaranteed you will be reminded of your transgression at regular and timely intervals, for life!

Thanks for the tip re. Foxey's...

 

Thanks Elinor, a great "positive" slant! At least she won't claw the furniture...

 

in the past 10 years, I have only spent $60.00 for permanent Antique Car Plates, (never have to register the car again), and as of recently $9.70 USD in new upper bushings for the front shock absorbers which desintegrated. Oh yes, David Boger got me a replacement radio, another some $45. bucks if I remember correctly.

$114.70 in 10 years is how much per year? I'll let LnrB calculate because my frain is bried.

 

These days, or maybe I should say for the moment, mine only leaks from the Chevrolet bits. Serves you right! the purists will say

 

Lemme guess; valve cover gaskets. Maybe rear trans seal.
(';')

 

Overtime I have fixed a variety of small ones inc valve covers. At the moment I am left with the rear main (leaves a couple of drops at each pull up) and the front crank seal (just weeps, hasnt resulted in a drip yet). Neither yet justifies the amount of effort required to fix them.

 

Welcome to the XJ forum Tony, it's always nice to see new people here with or without problems.

 

We are starting to gather quite a group of Oz XJ/XJS owners on the forum. Good to see.