Bitten the bullet and purchased Elm wood replacements from Murtle.
Before removing originals has any member any particular advice that may assist me not making a **** up with removal of the original steering wheel and gear shift knob. I’m reasonably confident but there maybe some technical matters I should be aware of. I don’t have a workshop manual for the 86 XJ-S 5 speed manual.

many thanks in advance.

mike

 

The standard gear shift knob just unscrews, place a thick rag round one side and carefully unscrew it with a pair of grips.
The steering wheel centre trim is held by two self tappers accessed from the back of the wheel. Once removed you will see a large plastic nut, unscrew this and withdraw the long brass rod-like thing attached to it's rear. This is part of the horn circuit. Under this is a 15/16ths wheel to column securing nut. Undo this and carefully joggle the wheel free of he column splines; BUT do so slowly as there are two small conical collars that are compressed by the nut as part of the securing mechanism and these MUST be refitted when you re-install the new wheel.

 

Mike, would be really helpful if you could take and post pictures of the process. Thanks

 

Many thanks for the above advice. Photos, will do, if I can work out how to upload them, for a 70 year old I’ll work it out.

mike

 

leave the nut on a couple of threads while joggling the wheel off. your teeth will thank you.

 

I used a Momo shift knob & black with red piping leather boot on my 5sp shifter. The leather boot piping matches the red piping on the seats. I didn't get to a steering wheel yet because air bag

 

Pictures............ we want pictures!

 

The air bag is not that big a problem. I changed my black wheel for a walnut look one many years ago. There is a difference between the size of European wheels and US wheels.
The hardest bit is drilling a hole in a bolt, hitting it with a hammer to make a simple airbag removal tool

 

Thanks Greg. The changeover to the new Elm Steering wheel went like a charm and I noted with care those conical collars. They could be easily lost.

great job done with thanks to everyone s input that was invaluable.

mike

 

 

 

Soo cool
Looks great. and a manual.... lucky sod!

 

Thanks nice comment. “everything is for sale for the right price”

 

Just for the un-educated - looks like a unique XJS - must have had a engine/gearbox transplant in the past, because I don't think the 86 came out with either? Although I did see one for sale in Oz a little while ago.
Where does the central locking button live on the 86? - on my 1980 - it is also on the ski slope - but there is no hole in either of your ski slopes? - Just curious.
Also presuming your new ski slope has the power windows in the new ski slope, just can't see them.

The cabin does look nice

Cheers
Steve

 

The model is a 3.6 litre straight 6 version XJS, which came from the factory with either a manual and an automatic gearbox.

 

Great look-in combo.

 

Selling a manual (5 speed) here in Florida, USA is tough. I've had much interest until they see the stick & clutch. Must admit most lookers were over 65, I'm a 70 something "gear head".

 

Steve.

It is unique in that whilst it totally authentic. It was imported into NZ in 1987 by original Uk owner who emigrated to NZ. I am 2nd owner, other than regular maintenance the only major expense has been stainless steel exhaust and my recent purchase of wood grain console and steering wheel. It has original paint , carpets etc. No rust whatsoever. I have all purchase papers including first UK tax disc. I got rid of origin Jag radio as had no FM and played cassettes. Otherwise in factory condition.

The electric windows are on the ski slope, the central locking system is by exterior key ok and unlock.
First owner kept a daily log book in that he recorded all maintenance including oil changes, trips, fuel consumption etc. very exacting gentleman.

cheers. Mike

 

yes, but only from 1987 onwards (manual Getrag 265, or ZF-4 speed auto). When the 3.6 was launched in 1983, it was only available with manual gearbox.

I have a manual 3.6 and I did replace the steering wheel too, with a Nardi:



Due to smaller diameter, steering is a little harder now. Has a different touch, as is thinner and more slippery. The OEM steering wheel is too big and not specially nice, but I think it provides better feel.

 

Not everyone cup of tea but I like it.
Much nicer than the Bus wheel that the XJS came with.