I'm dropping the IRS on my '87 series III. I couldn't free the exhaust from the rear mufflers so had to cut the pipe on both sides. I'm to the point where I just have to disconnect the brake line and the 8 bolts that actually hold up the IRS. I was cleaning up the work area before going to lunch when, BANG! The whole right side of the IRS fell out and hit the ground. I'm looking at the bolts still in place and reach up to feel the nuts still on the back. The rubber blocks came unbonded to the support brackets on the right side and one came loose on the driver's side. I was just under there to see what size wrench I'd need for the brake line connector, it could have been catastrophic. Of all the videos I watched in prep. for this no one mentioned this possibility. A word to the wise.

 

I found one in a U-pull yard hanging down with only the exhaust & forward radius arms holding it up. I was getting the exhaust system, so it was actually helpful. For anyone working under the IRS I would definitely recommend placing jack stands under the hubs as a safety precaution. Also if replacing the IRS mounts, don't go cheap, buy the metalastic brand bushings. They are made better and also fit better. I had a complete pita getting a different brand to fit and one stud broke off, replaced them with the good ones while adjusting the rear camber.

Cheers,
Brian

 

Thanks, I did some preliminary searches for the brackets and all I saw was Uro brand. Will look for the Metalastic brand.

 

I'll have to check my receipts, I'm not sure if I got them from Holden or David Manners in the UK or maybe Moss or SNG here in the USA. I would call to confirm the brands they offer.
Also misspelled it, should be Metalastik

Good luck & Merry Christmas !
Brian

 

I finished dropping the IRS. Not too bad really other than cutting the exhaust pipes. I checked Moss, FCP, SNG & Rock Auto for the brackets. I didn't see any Metalstik but FCP had genuine Jaguar brackets for $57 ea. compared to URO and unbranded ones from $17-$22. This is going to get expensive as several of the shocks are leaking as well and the radius arm bushes will need replacing. I only went into all this to rebuild the brake calipers as the pads are worn and one piston is stuck and I wanted to replace the discs as well. But I expected everything would need attention. Tomorrow I'm cooking Christmas dinner so will have a day off from the car, sort of.

 

I suggest buying these direct from Jaguar. You know you're getting the right part and even with over seas shipping the price is very competitive. You should also pick up the trailing arm bushings too.

 

It would also be worth contacting Jack Weston at David Manners. Jack.Weston@davidmanners.co.uk
They have genuine Metalastik parts often at less cost than from Jaguar.

Even with genuine Metalastik cage mounts (CAC3067) the cage is NOT secure or safe if the car is off the ground and the cage has no other support beneath it. On two post ramps, for example, I was advised to place the rear ramp arms just aft of the large radius arm to body bush, this provides considerable support to the cage in addition to the cage mounts. The mounts, remember, are made to be in compression, the rubber blocks are glued to the metal parts and have no safety device to prevent their failure when under tension.

 

Years ago, I saw an article about an English wrecking yard which specialised in Jaguars particularly XJ sedans.
They removed the rear suspension by sticking a forklift tongue through the rear windows elevating the wheels to about 1 metre or 3 odd feet above the ground.
They then gave it a few shakes up and down and the whole rear end dropped out (including the exhaust system.)
They reckoned that this method never failed.
So, these warnings about decaying cage mounts should be taken seriously

 

I'm a believer after my episode. Though I'm new to Jaguar and the forum I'm surprised I'd not seen this mentioned already considering how many repair threads and videos I've watched. It was literally just a couple of moments from when I was underneath the back end to when the cage came crashing down.

 

You can be sure I'll have blocks or jack stands under the cage in any future endeavors.

 

I've warned people about this several times and most often received the reply that I don't know what I'm talking about.
Wishing everyone a Happy, Healthy and Safe New Year!

 

Here's a picture of one "in the wild" after I pull the exhaust system at a U-pull yard. the only thing holding it now are the radius arms and drive shaft ( the brake hose is still hooked up but I wouldn't count on it to hold anything ).
Just keep this in mind when jacking the car but especially using a lift or grabbing parts at a yard like this. Could get trapped or crushed without anyone to help !

Stay Safe & Happy New Year !
Brian

 

One of the reasons why many specialist Jaguar mechanics prefer four post lifts.