Hello Everyone,

I am a new member and just started to take an interest in the XJS. Sometime this week I am going to look at a 87 V12 convertible with about 70,000 miles.
The photos that I have seen makes the car very enticing, but I am sure that
I will notice many items that are not noticeable in the photos that I should be aware. So my question is what should I really be looking at when I go to visit this car aside from the obvious? Are all, or any, 87 convertibles designed by Hess & Eisenhardt? I have begun to review the book. I wish there was something like that book for the jensen healey that I own. Thanks for the help.
Jim

 

Hi Jim
No, not all convertibles were made by H&E. There were several companies that were hired by either the dealers or individuals and some of them did nice work (like mine) and others...well...they probably haven't survived this long if they weren't done well.

Rust is a big issue, regardless of if they are convertibles or hardtops. Lift up the rugs and look at the floorboards. Climb underneath with a flashlight and poke around, especially where the trailing arms from the rear axle attach to the body.
Look to see if the gaps between the doors, hood, etc, line up and watch to see if it changes when both doors are open.
Does it start easily or smoke when started? Does it shift well? When you look at the engine, do the hoses look quite old, and are there hose clamps on all the injection hoses? (if so, it was probably not done by someone familiar with Jags).

I'm actually not that far from you in New Hampshire. I live just across the river from Brattleboro, VT. If the car is down this way I may be able to go with you to look at it.

 

There's a buyers guide in one of the sticky threads at the top of this section. It will give some basic info

Cheers
DD

 

If JameyXJ6 can't make it, definitely bring the sticky with you on an ipad.

- drive it for at least half an hour (seriously). these cars take a while to warm up, and you want to run away at any sign of overheating.

- do all the electrics work (AC, windows, roof)

- any warning lights on

- do some panic braking

- does it start 1st time every time

- interior is EXPENSIVE. start with a good one

- go through a car wash and check for leaks to the interior

- does it idle smoothly

- do the tires match (good indicator of level of care)

countless other things to watch out for.

BRIBE JAMEYXJ6 TO GO WITH YOU.

Way too easy to fall in love and overlook critical flaws.

Don't be afraid to walk away. The XJS is a most unloved car, and you can find a well-sorted example for next to nothing... just might have to wait a few months or be prepared to travel / have it shipped.

Keep us posted! and Welcome!!

Feel free to post pics of the car here!

 

I like bribes! And I'm not even a politician!

 

Thanks Jamey, Flint, and Doug. I really appreciate the responses. And Yes, Jamey, that would be great if you were available to come with me. I have yet made arrangements to visit the car because I wanted to learn something about it. I am slowly learning, but the more I read about the car, the more red flags it seems I should be looking for. What I have learned is that I am becoming more interested in such a vehicle.
Jamey, I am also in Vermont but up in South Royalton. I will keep you updated, and maybe we can get to see it together.
Thanks again
Jim

 

The only thing I would bring up is a garage...which you probably have in VT.

I do not. It's MUCH easier for me to work on the 6 because everything is so accessible. If you look at any pics of the 12, its a relative disaster. \

If I had a a garage, I would have bought the 12.

 

Vee, I know exactly how you feel as I don't have one either. But that hasn't stopped me from taking on projects requiring significant work! Fortunately my neighbor let's me use his garage, so doing motor changes and stuff are much easier. Where there is a will there is a way!