I would like to order a Haynes Manual for my 86 model XJS, but I notice the manual only applies up to 85 models. Would the manual still be of use, or are the models so different that I am asking for trouble?

Thanks!

 

The exact dates of the model changes in relation to the advertised car model years are inexact. At some point between 1986 and 1987 there was an interior update to both the V12 and 6 cylinder cars. The seats were changed to the more 'recaro' style with more body-hugging contours, on runners about 1 inch closer together. The steering wheel stalks were also updated to Ford derived ones, which also look more 'chunky' than the wand-like stalks used previously. The wiper motor and actuators were upgraded to the electrolux/four lever system. Finally the aircon was upgraded to the Delanair mark III version, this has the temp control which can be pulled out with a click to give full cool mode.

There may have been some wiring improvments to connectors etc at the same time, I am not sure. Nevertheless, for most things on the car, up to the actual facelift cars, and assuming the car if a V12 still has the Lucas ignition, rather than the Marelli, the haynes manual for the 1985 cars will be useful.

 

Yes, for the fudamentals you'll be OK with the up-to-1985 edition. Brakes, suspension, cooling, etc.

That said, the Haynes manuals are not all the great to begin with, IMHO. Better than nothing, though.


Cheers
DD

 

i second that the haynes manuals arent great. probably the most useless $20 you ever spent in your life.

because they try and apply the material to all model years, and drivetrains, they usually overlook multitudes of important details.