Robert, with a '82 XJS HE, US version...
been working on it for a while. It starts, runs, and we take it for short drives, (couple blocks and back since its not insured or licensed yet)... But today I started it and the starter would not disengage. My thought is the relay is sticking on... Other thoughts, the solenoid is not retracting... Wondering if anyone has had similar, and what fixed the issue. It does take a LOT to remove the starter- so hoping its just the relay. Any advice or input please.

 

Pull the coil HT wire so the engine doesn't actually start

Find the large white/red wire at the starter relay. This is the wire to the starter solenoid

Now have a helper turn the key to 'start'. Assuming the starter stays engaged pull the white/red wire.

If the starter disengages you have a relay problem. If it doesn't disengage, you have a starter problem

Cheers
DD

 

Yep, Starter relay is bad... ordering new one. Thanks for the tip!!