I've read quite a few messages of the benefits of replacing the stock XJ-6 front anti-roll bar (3/4" dia.) with one from a S3 XJ-12 (7/8" dia.). I'm looking for a bit less wallowing around during (even routine) cornering and this mod seems to get quite a bit of praise. Since I'm replacing all the bar and link mounts, I might as well change the bar while I'm at it. Apparently the improvement is immediately noticeable, so I'm in.

Being in St. Catharines (Canada) 20 mins from the Niagara Falls Border, I called up Robert Laughton nearby, who has many, many XJ-6/12 and XJ-S cars for parts. Robert was able to offer me a 7/8" bar from an XJ-12, Being that Roberts prices are really unbeatable, I snapped it up and collect it next week. If anyone's looking for excellent used (and a few) new ones, I recommend giving Rob a call.. I've picked up all sorts of tough to find parts, including many hard to find interior trim pieces from him. Robert's number is 905-932-0284.

I understand that the front subframe needs to be lowered at the forward end to allow the bar to be slipped out. If so, and while I'm down there, should I replace the two "shotgun shell" front doughnut mounts - mine look in good nick.

How difficult is this to do in a basic residential garage not equipped with specialty tools/jigs.

Any guidance would be appreciated.

Regards, Ian

 

I would buy a pair of adjustable Gaz shockers and fit these in 15 mins first. I think you can dial up the handling you want doing this.
Also, wallowing has a lot to do with the rear, what are the rear shocks like?

 

Thanks for the intro Ian,

I'll take this opportunity to show pictures of my Jag yard.

I hope I can help folks in future,'

Rob

 

The larger anti-roll bar is worthwhile.

Been years since I did this job but I recall using a large pry bar of some sort to push the front of the subframe down a bit so the bar could be installed.

Long extensions help in dealing with the u-brackets that hold the bar to the frame. Easier to get to the bolt from above in the engine bay than from below

I leave the shotgun shell bushings if they're still in good shape. New replacements are often lower-grade quality.

Cheers
DD

 

Thanks Doug. Does this mean that you just pry the subframe without removing the Front mount attachment bolts or do you remove the bolts then pry.? Will anything drop down if the mount bolts are removed - ie. do I support the subframe if the bolts are being removed?

 

Remove the bolts at the six-shooter bushings. The subframe will droop a little. Use the prybar to push it down a bit more.

It was over 20 years ago that I did this ....but I don't recall any problems.

It dawns on me that I might have loosened the fan shroud to let it drop a bit...so as to prevent the fan contacting the shroud.

Cheers
DD