XJ6 & XJ12 Series I, II & III 1968-1992

Won't start when hot

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Old Aug 11, 2023 | 09:07 AM
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Default Won't start when hot

1986 XJ6 series 3. 92K. After running for 30 - 40 minutes, then turn off, It frequently won't start. If I let it cool down (2 - 3 hours it starts. Any suggestions?
 
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Old Aug 11, 2023 | 11:17 AM
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The ‘could be’ list might get a bit long

Both the ignition coil and the ignition module are known for giving problems after absorbing engine heat.

If you’re a DIYer then check for spark next time you have a no start condition

Cheers
DD
 
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Old Aug 12, 2023 | 01:11 PM
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Thanks Doug. I'm not a DIYer but I am teachable. What is easiest way to check for spark and do you know of any clear illustrations of ignition elements...especially the ignition module. The mechanics in my area don't want to touch "foreign" cars. But I may be able to convince one if I'm knowledgeable about issue. Hope that all makes sense. I'm 82y/o, bought my Jag new. Stored for past 25 years but started periodically. Appreciate any more help....Alan
 
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Old Aug 12, 2023 | 05:17 PM
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you can use an "inline spark plug tester" it goes between the plug & lead, shows up a light when engine cranking or running, not uncommon for the module inside the distributor to overheat then ok when cool down, has happened in other makes of cars i've had.
 
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Old Aug 12, 2023 | 05:27 PM
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XJTOM
I ordered a tester...here in 2 days. Many thanks
 
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Old Aug 15, 2023 | 08:36 AM
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Spark tester showed no spark when engine was hot an wouldn't start. Next step?...coil vs ignition module. Could I at least check coil with multimeter?
 
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Old Aug 15, 2023 | 08:57 AM
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I would renew both!
 
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Old Aug 15, 2023 | 01:46 PM
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Found thread regarding coil test
Engine cold
Key on
Battery = 12.13V
Both - & + terminals on coil = 11.6V (i.e, with in 1 V of battery) =? coil OK
But I couldn't determine which was+ and- terminals...need to know that before next step
Also, should I repeat this step with engine hot and won't start?
Can you help?
 
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Old Aug 15, 2023 | 06:33 PM
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The coil terminals are normally marked "-" and "+" but the markings are sometimes quite small

Anyhow.....

The "+" post will have white wires attached, and/or a ballast resistor with white wires.

The "-" post will have white/black wires and a white/slate/blue wire.

Cheers
DD
 
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Old Aug 16, 2023 | 07:22 AM
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Thanks Doug. As you can see all my wires are white. I must have had coil replaced in past. Obviously (+) terminal is the one with ballast and I can now ID the two wires that go (in a bundle) to ignition module. Is there an ohmage across ballast that I should check and , finally, would it be best to remove the big black "can" (?air intake?) to more easily access the ICM. Again,,,Thank You.
 
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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 07:15 AM
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I was able to remove ignition control module and now I have a few more questions.
1. There are several choices for the ignition coil and the ignition control unit (ICU) inside the ICM
Ignition coil... Bosch part #W0133-1620605 or Carquest part # EBC1549 or?
ICU...Delco # F6000741331del or Delphi # W0133-2105655 or?
2. Should I also replace coil (?capacitor?) inside ICM?
3. What is the disc-like piece that is fixed to inside of ICM housing (black/white lead)?
Sorry I screwed up last post...appreciate all your help
Alan

 
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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 03:32 PM
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I looked at some of the coils you listed and I would say no... You want to fixed the problem and not be back with it again in a year . The generic coils don't even list their specs... just say "meet or (maybe exceed)" original. Original was 35+ years ago.

This thread has some back-ground for you.. https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...tumped-265835/
Lucas or Pertronix coil .900 to .600 ohm for a ignition coil and GM " Delco " ignition module.
Rgds
David

 
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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 04:24 PM
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Thank you David. I looked at thread and it will be good reference in future. I replaced ICU with new GM from local auto shup then spent afternoon re-installing. Started promptly!. I'm a retired MD and have limited mechanical skills, so I was thrilled that it started. I''ll let it get hot and see what happens. I plan to replace coil regardless of tomorrows results so I will follow your recs re new coil....having so much fun,,,Alan And thank you again
 
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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 06:39 PM
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Here are some part numbers

E-BAY (you can also check amazon for price comparison)
New Lucas Coil Opus Ignition System Jaguar XJ6 XJS XKE V12 Etc. # DLB198
Condition: New Price: US $62.95

Pertronix 45111 Ignition Coil Flame-Thrower II Black 45,000 V 0.6 Ohm Epoxy

Brand New Price $63.63 5.0 out of 5 stars. 7 product ratings-
Rgds
David
 
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Old Aug 19, 2023 | 08:02 AM
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David, Doug and all...I've completed fix. I let engine get hot and started right off. David...I used generic (Standard) coil for now but I've ordered Petronix 45111 Flame Thrower for my next project. My antenna broke off in car wash so I'll do that first. Antenna motor runs when I turn radio on but antenna won't come up. I'll look for thread but if you have any suggestions, I'm all ears. And many thanks for all your help!
 
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Old Aug 19, 2023 | 08:25 AM
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The antenna mast has a long nylon drive cable....which is probably broken or stripped. That's the most common failure mode. You can buy a new mast and cable assembly.

If the cable is just stripped you can sometimes just pull it all the way out and then feed the new cable into the motor. If the cable is broken the motor will have to be opened up to remove the broken cable.

The entire motor and drive assembly can be removed from the car easily and plopped onto your workbench for repair...which is what I suggest you do. The antenna tube is clamped to the body; removing the tail light gives access. The mounting for the motor is easily accessed. Then you just wriggle the whole shebang out of the car; you'll discover the tunnel the the drive cable passes thru

Cheers
DD

 
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Old Aug 19, 2023 | 10:40 AM
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^
^^
My Series 3 cars antenna have never acted up but my XJR’s was starting to and I thought this might be one of the few tasks this mechanically challenged owner could manage. I would think the exercise is similar with the Series 3 cars as Doug described but some photos might also help: https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...2/#post2660847
 
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Old Aug 19, 2023 | 02:38 PM
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I've watched a few videos and threading cable looks a little hairy to me. Furthermore, I bought a new mast about 2 years ago after the carwash incident and a local auto shop tried to fix it and some of wiring looks a mess. It looks like a plug was broken and spliced? Also should I move to a new thread? Sorry about huge pics.


 
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Old Aug 31, 2023 | 09:34 AM
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Time to swap stock coil with Petronix 45111. Can I assume I don't use external ballast?

 
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Old Aug 31, 2023 | 01:59 PM
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Time to swap stock coil with Pertronix 45111. Can I assume I don't use external ballast?

Normally I would just toss the ballast, in this case we are Trouble Shooting by replacement of parts, So leave it in until you have success with the original problem.
I have never had car with a ballast, but seems from forum post that they fail and stay failed, not coming back when cooled.
Rgds
David
 
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