I have a 1996 XJS 2+2 Convertible and need new shocks.

My first choice would have been the Bilsten, followed by the Koni but both are very expensive.

The Koni's aren't totally out of my price range with the sale they have going right now but but their website is confusing; it list the pricing as a "pair", but when you click add to cart it shows a quantity of 2 was added even on the front. If the part number is for a "pair" and XJS only have 1 shock on each side of the front, then why would it add 2 to my cart? Does anyone know if that's just a mistake on their website or not?

After the Koni I considered the KYB but when I go to their website and enter 1996 the XJS is not even listed just the XK8 which I didn't even think replaced the XJS until 1997, you have to go back to 1995 model to find the XJS listed but I read somewhere that 1995 and 1996 shocks on an XJS may not be interchangeable on the rear so am not sure if the part number listed for a 1995 will really fit my 1996.

I could go with Monroe but they only show their basic shocks for it and show the same part # for both 1995 and 1996 but again I remember reading somewhere the rear shocks from a 1995 wont fit a 1996.

Can anyone verify the part numbers for the KYB, if the Koni's on sale on their website is really a "pair" or if their website is listing incorrectly. Will the Monroe models fit at all. or is there a good option that I have not thought about?

I do live in the Ozarks with lots of curvy scenic roads and often somewhat aggressively with my cat.


I also plan on adding one of the V12Performance Fastcat sway bar upgrade kits both front and rear soon if that makes a difference.

 

The setup for a 96 XJS is the same as a 95 and 94, 93, 92 etc.

I have fitted Gaz adjustable height and adjustable rebound shock absorbers. They enable you to set up the ride height snd tide characteristics. Good kit.

Good luck

Paul

 

I agree with Paul, the Gaz shocks are pretty good and very easy to adjust on-car. I have them (with the bump rebound adjusters but not the ride height adjuster) and although nothing apart from the OEM shocks gives the exact factory velvet Jaguar ride characteristics, these are shot in 10 to 15.000 miles, so Gaz can be adjusted to a very decent compromise and are far more durable.

Greg

 

I definitely want shocks that last a good long time. Shocks that only lasted 15k would be done for me in a single summer. I also don't need adjustable shocks, I don't mind having them but also don't really need them.

 

I installed a set of four Boge CAC009091 which cost me $326.00. These were on EBay. They are quite satisfactory.
Make sure that you keep the upper bushing from your original shock. My ex-mechanic threw mine into a garbage can. We retrieved them.

I ordered a set of Monroe and found the shocks would not fit the '95-'96 XJS. These were number 39003. The tube is a little larger on the Monroe and will not mount.
Cheers, RagJag

 

Awesome, What part # did you put on the front?

 

The front shocks were new at the time I purchased the car so I haven't bought any for the front.
RagJag