Seeking an independent mechanic/facility (non dealer) in the Concord. CA area. I’m here temporarily (several months) and need to have the upper front shock mounts (and shocks if needed) replaced. Also other suspension parts , bushings as required. Car took a beating during the 3000 mile coast to coast trip last week. Car is a 2001 XK8. All suggestions appreciated. 😊 Thanks in advance.

 

Becky,

From the title, I was expecting to see a WANTED - DEAD or ALIVE poster from someone with a really serious 20 year old grudge over shoddy work.

If you don't get any recommendations here, try a re-post in the US Western Region forum.

Graham

 

The best older Jag mechanic/shop in the Bay Area is Bacchus Jaguar in Dublin. Please tell Sheik that Tim Mattson sent you.

 

Good morning. Something like Clint from The Good, The Bad and The Ugly? Lol 😊

 

That's the one!

The Sad Hill Cemetery scene was filmed outside Burgos in Spain. My Jaguar spent a very expensive week in the local dealership after an injector failure crossing the Pyrenees.





I hope you find a lower cost solution for your suspension rebuild.

Graham

 

Hi Graham,

Very sorry you experienced that. According to the advertisements, long trips should be pleasant and filled with lots of sight seeing etc. I am happy my car made it here though it will have to be repaired / rebuilt before the return trip. I suspect if the complete suspension is rebuilt, the repair cost will be close to the car purchase price. Guess that's the fun of owning a classic Jag.

Thank you for the good wishes.

 

Here are a couple options https://www.bacchusbritish.com in Dublin. I have used them for years and very reliable. Closer to you I would try Big O in Lafayette as they will do suspension parts. I would normally not recommend a generic place like this but they are surprising good at this location. The Big O in Livermore can replace XK8 struts, springs bushings etc as well.

 

Becky,

They normally are. It was an unusual event. In the past 25 years I've made 36 extended Continental European tours covering 87310 miles in 526 days. This was only the second time a Jaguar let me down. The first was a burst XJ40 coolant hose on a Christmas Day afternoon in the middle of France. The Jaguar reputation for unreliability is unfounded if the vehicle is properly maintained.

You are likely to be able to limit the suspension work to the regular shock mounts and upper wishbone bushes but it's always worth replacing shocks at the same time if they are suspect.

Graham