Any inputs? Low miles (52,000) Would you guys stay away from the v-12 or should I consider it? Thx fellas

 

If it clears all the usual pre purchase checks, and you have to have a V12 , then the 95 V12 is the one to get.

You already have an AJ6 or AJ16 from your picture, I presume?

 

I would imagine, that even though the 6cyl cars may actually be more dependable, get better milage, those who own them may wish they had a V12. The 95 V12 was a very low production car. The 6.0 is reported to be about indestructible. For me, it could only be a V12.

 

I agree... Buy the best one that you can afford with low miles and a service history...

 

If possible, check the compression on each cylinder! If the engine is good everything else (except rust) can be fixed relatively easily.

 

What kind of #s should I expect with the compression check?

 

The 6.0 I am planning on transplanting into my 89 XJS, came from a 94 XJ12. It had 127,000 miles on it. After getting it running from sitting quite some years? it had around 235lbs of compression on all cylinders except 4B, which had 190. The recommendation has been by far to use as is. I can't make myself. These engines are a real PITA to R&R, much less work on in car, so I am choosing to do a complete teardown, refresh what is needed. I have rebuilt two other V12 Jag engines, and neither needed bearing really. It was the valve stems, (exhaust side), and guides that had the most wear. Even after many many miles. By far, without exception, is the importance of a V12 Jag not being run hot. Constant regular coolant changes every 2 years, as well as maybe removal of radiator every 10 years, to remove any debris, is a MUST. Next, is brake fluid changes. Omit this at your own peril. Renewal of all rubber brake lines, and fluid change, would be at the top of my list right after coolant change/radiator servicing. I have spoken with a couple of guys with over 300k miles on a V12, with no major engine repair. These cars are really expensive to fix, so most get parted out, or scrapped way before their time. I am open to talking any time, as I have owned at least 9 V12 Jags, and am very comfortable with owning one. Sounds like you have found a nice car.

 

Check this thread https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...on-test-88675/

The key is that the numbers should be in the same range.

 

That was a great post! I'm presuming that is numbers on a 5.3? From what I know about engines, 10% variation from min to max is acceptable. For me to have 235-240 on 11 cylinders, but 190 on one cylinder tells me I have a valve that "may" not be seating fully, or maybe a bad ring? I checked valve clearance, and those were withing range. 10% tells me that my lowest would be 210? if my highest is 240?

Anyway, haven't torn it down yet, but have purchased new tensioner, chain, and all new gaskets, so we will see.

 

If the engine hasnt been run in a while then running it may make compression come back up.
An engine that sits is an unhappy engine. They need to run like the wild cats they are.

 

Got the opportunity to buy a 1994 V12 6.0 SPFI cabriolet with 91k.

what should I be looking for?

seat leather needs replacement, as does drivers door trim, roof may need a replacement if a deep clean doesn’t work.

but are there things I need to look at closely ?

TIA.

 

Thread is 6 years old, why not start a new one?

 

i could but, why duplicate?

do you have advice about the car?

 

Because everyone coming into this thread starts at the top. They read the thread from the top and think of replies relevant to it. If this thread were two weeks old, its different. But this thread is six years old. OP asked his questions and got answers, its basically done there. Start a new thread.

There are lots of things to look out for with any XJ-S. Start a new thread and we'll tell you.

 

start your own thread!

 

Done, sorry.
was trying to save clutter.

 

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...advice-248280/

 

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If it’s been sitting for a long time one cylinder down on compression doesn’t mean much.
As you’ve found out, that V12 is nearly indestructible and very slow to wear.
Chances are extremely high the rings are just stuck from being stationary.
Change the oil and get it properly warmed up. Now do an Italian tune up. ( High revs,6000+ under load). Say climbing a hill??Then let off.
It helps if your gasoline has some alcohol in it. Alcohol is a wonderful carbon loosener and cleaner.

 

Just a heads up the post you responded to is over 8 years old. Mods should really lock this thread.