Hey everyone,

I'm new to the forum and apologize if this isn't appropriate. I have a 1992 xjs with the 5.3 L V12. The car is generally very solid but has a number of electrical issues that seem to come and go. It looks like a prior owner tried to bypass faults as they came up and just made a mess of the whole thing. A Jaguar specialist mechanic has quoted me 20-25 hours to redo the entire under hood harness. I have seen it and honestly think it needs to be done but does that seem correct for timing? I've just started working with this person and would like to continue, but I want to be sure. Some other work he has done so far has spiraled a bit beyond what was initially discussed. I'd really appreciate any insight.

 

20-25 hours? That seems like a bargain, to be quite honest. Perhaps I don't fully understand the scope.

He will replace/upgrade all of the existing wiring under the hood...stopping at the firewall?

 

Spiralling, or mission creep as it is also known as, is inevitable with these cars, especially with the electrics as the looms are complicated, access is difficult and if somebody else has already had a go at butchering it then it could be a nightmare.
However, if your guy is qualified and competent then it is probably the right way to go otherwise it will never work properly.
What specific problems do you have?

 

Done a few over the years, mainly fire related.

One other that was a messed up PreHE, with no engine fire.

40 hours, MINIMUM, for a total redo is more closer in MY opinion.

It is a Marelli engine, so a few other items than the Lucas engine.

 

Maybe the OP's mechanic is counting on buying OEM harnesses and this is just his fitting time estimate? Quite a number are still available from JCP.
Greg

 

Hi Kevin, welcome to the forum and XJS ownership. Once you get the car sorted it will be reliable and the best long distance cruiser bar none.

If the mechanic you are using is going to use an OEM harness I would suggest installing it inside heat shielding sleeve. The issue with the OEM harness is the wire insulation, Jaguar used PVC which does not hold up well to heat.

If the harness is going to be a custom job I would suggest using silicone insulated wire, a little more expensive but will last a life time.

good luck