Hi all,
I currently own a 98 XK8. I love it to pieces.
I have a chance to add a 96 XJS convertible to the lot. It appears to be a solid number 2 on the scale. It has 58K and it is a 2 owner. It has a 4ltr.
Anything I should look for when giving it a go-over? Anything mechanical?

Thanks
Rob
RadJag1

 

Air conditioning, cruise control, front spoiler isn't broken, top goes up and down....its a pretty bulletproof car. Problems are usually minor.

You should ask the previous owner what rubber suspension updates hes made. Rubber at that age simply starts to fail. Not an emergency, and certainly can be replaced over time....

 

Seat leather is expensive to replace!

 

I ordered my set from Lseat and did it myself, including replacing the seat foam. So far, so good. Will report when that leather begins to go bad, but I got them to add an embossed Jaguar, just like OEM, and asked for Diamond stitching in the center parts. I think it looks better than OEM!

Two front seats, $416, shipped!

 

Rob,

One of our club members asked a similar question recently when considering the purchase of an older XJS. Below are a couple of the replies to assist him. You may find some of the thoughts useful.

1. Bodywork - a car of that age will either have rust or will have had it repaired. The places to look are all 4 lower quarters, sills (especially where the lower seatbelt anchor bolts in and the radius arm mounts), inner wings (feel down below the top mountings for the shock absorber), front wings (especially the rear section) and foot wells. Check the bonnet for corrosion (twist it slightly and listen for nasty noises) and also the boot plinth. Look around the windscreen for corrosion.
If there is evidence of repair make sure it has been done to a good standard and hasn't been bodged. In my opinion, you shouldn't buy one of these cars unless you've been underneath it and had a good poke about.
2. Engine - check for signs of overheating or head gasket problems and timing chain rattle
3. Cooling system - check for leaks and have a good look at the radiator (the fins at the the bottom disintegrate with time).
4. Air conditioning system - does it work? (it can be costly to get an old system working again)
5. Body seals - is there any evidence of water leaking into the car?
6. Brakes - calipers are prone to seizing if not regularly used.
7. Suspension - first question is does the car sit right? Look at the tyres for uneven wear. The car should drive with exceptional ride quality and no noises from the suspension.
8. Interior - replacing interior trim can quickly add up to a big bill so make sure it is in good condition.

If the engine is cold, check for slight blue smoke immediately on start-up. Those AJ6 engines are prone to valve stem oil leak
Also listen at the exhaust manifold for a slight chuffing which disappears after a minute or two. They are prone to exhasust manifold cracks that then close up when warm
Look for any signs that the engine cooling fan may have touched the top of the shroud. This is caused by wear in the rear gearbox mount. Also. if the fan is yellow, budget to replace it with a black one at the earliest opportunity. They are prone to cracking which can cause a lot of damage if they let go.
If it's an auto, smell the autobox dipstick for a burnt smell. Budget anyway for an immediate fluid and filter change.


Good luck with the purchase.

Paul