Possible purchase: '89 XJS Coupe.

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Dec 14, 2007 | 09:59 AM

tkpagel

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Possible purchase: '89 XJS Coupe.

Hello folks,

I'm new to the forum and I'm considering purchasing an '89 XJS Coupe. I was wondering how available parts are, for this model? Either from Jaguar or aftermarket. For example, I would be looking to replace the rear bumper, and possibly some or all of the interior. Seats are 7.5 on a scale of 1-10. Also considering replacingthe console and other interior woodwork. How available are these?

Thanks in advance for any input. It's very much appreciated.

Tom in SF

[IMG]local://upfiles/2684/66413562DC344AACAC159D31FB1A6164.jpg[/IMG]

Dec 17, 2007 | 12:42 PM

ken@britishparts.com

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Joined: May 2007

Posts: 2,533

Likes: 23

From: Houston, Texas

RE: Possible purchase: '89 XJS Coupe.

Parts are fairly easy to come by for the most part. I would use a local upholstry shop for the interior. The wood is expensive! Try www.britishautowood.com He's expensive, but worth it.

Dec 17, 2007 | 07:04 PM

solentblue

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RE: Possible purchase: '89 XJS Coupe.

Assuming you are confident in the workings of the beast under the hood I would advise you to check the brakes. The rear brakes are "inboard" and difficult to work with. I was naive to this and when I had to replace the rear calipers on my '89 there was much weeping and gnashing of teeth. Labor was $1400.

1989 XJS convertible

Jan 3, 2008 | 11:50 PM

TheLadyRides

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RE: Possible purchase: '89 XJS Coupe.

Well, I wanted to tell tk that the ski slopes are pretty easily found on e-bay or through britishautowood, as Ken noted, but then I saw the note from solentblue about the rear calipers and I got literally sick! I've had my '89 xjs v12 coupe for six years now and the only real money I've put into it was my own fault: knew the steering was going but I just kept putting power steering fluid in because I was so busy, so when I finally got it to the mechanic it was a $1700 job for a new rack. Go ahead, say it: woman driver. Anyhow, I'm new to this forum, just browsing for info on replacing the a/c unit (it's a 19 year old car, right?) and I want you all to know I love this car! Had a 74 E-type for 15 years and couldn't wait to have another Jag. I have an Audi wagon, too, and I love it, but I'm not driven to read and talk about it as I am with the Jag. I think my signature really should be "You don't buy them for reliability!" [8D]

Jan 4, 2008 | 10:33 AM

mghirsch

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Joined: Jan 2008

Posts: 352

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RE: Possible purchase: '89 XJS Coupe.

The rear brakes really aren't that bad. It is just a 10 m inute job to change pads one the car is lifted. If you have to do more, the best thing to do is drop the IRS. It shouldn't take more than an hour or two in the garage.

Jan 21, 2008 | 02:27 AM

Jag88

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RE: Possible purchase: '89 XJS Coupe.

Personally ,I Really like my 88 convertible, I look like a cheshire cat grinningwhen driving with the top down.
Now the bad part is, you either have to be capable with repairs, and or have deep pockets as these cars that were built 20 years ago -and lets be honest reliability wasn't a huge priority.

Even when I am entirely frustrated in the middle of a repair, I cannot see selling this car for a very,very long time; something I would not say about many vehicles.

Almost all the parts are available, there are a suprising number of suppliers, online and even your local auto supplier will carry some-I found brake calipers, starter(thats a pain to change), water pump, hoses etc.

Good Luck
James