Couldn't find this in the archives

I am looking to buy an 2003-4 XK8 or XKR convertible. I have posted a separate thread

When I finally pull the trigger I plan to have a pre purchase inspection. If I take it to a general mechanic, I want to also give them some areas of concern that are unique to X100 Jags. For example the hydraulic hose leakage on convertible tops. The rubber suspension donuts in the spring towers.

Would this learned forum please give me some more tips.

 

Here are five basic steps to buying a classic car:

https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/16121...0editorial.pdf

In my book, the "biggie" is 4.A.

 

Download Gary VanRemortel's "XK8 Bible" from the "Stickies" section at the top of this forum. Gary has provided us with an amazing reference, suitable for ownership (or contemplated ownership) of these cars, and he constantly updates it . At the very end of it is a suggested end-of-life parts replacement guide, which will be very handy to help decide what you might be facing for after-purchase maintenance items. Following his recommendations, I've now enjoyed over 18,000 trouble-free cross-country and local miles through both mild and extreme conditions in my barn-find 2005 XK8 Convertible I purchased less than 3 years ago. Couldn't do it without him - and all the incredibly knowledgeable & helpful members of this forum.

Also, Sinister1 created an extensive pre-buy checklist, downloadable from this thread:

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/xk8-xkr-x100-17/jaguar-purchase-checklist-update-53496/

 

66RBS

As Frankc says - Beware the "It's beautiful, I want it" eyes. You're right to go for the later 4.2L model as most of the gremlins are fixed from earlier generations of the X100.

I can't emphasize enough the importance of car maintenance history. Apart from the convertible hoses, other big ticket items you need to know about are
1. Engine chain tensioners
2. Gearbox
2. Coolant System
3. Front suspension
4. Rust (in AZ?)

You need to know what to look for, as lots of small problems can add up to expensive repair bill, and also you should know how the car should handle on a test drive. We Forum folks are very helpful and maybe if you find a car, you could ask if a fellow Forum member can come along and help inspect the car. The list is long and a fellow owner will know what to look for. All it may cost is a beer and a BBQ lunch.

Please let us know what you find and maybe we can offer more insights before your purchase.

 

the number 1 thing to run away from is chassis rust. Almost any other issue can be fixed without going bankrupt. This is true of all classic cars.

a good rule of thumb is to set aside an amount of money for repairs and maintenance which is equal to the purchase price. If you pay $10.000 for the car,, open a bank account with another $10,000 earmarked for keeping the car on the road.. Even maintenance items can be pricey. Adaptive shocks for the R model can run $1,600 for a set, quality tires can be $1,500 to $2,000.

Welcome to the party.

Z

 

Wow, wise words I have found all of this is to be true (on more one occasion) shame I have had to learn the hard way...

 

Wow great info in the XK8 Bible. Thank you Gary