novice XJS new owner

[codo1488]

Hi All,

 

I have just joined the forum, having just bought a 1988 xjs 3.6 coupe.

its a bit tatty and hasnt moved in a few years, i am collecting it next week.

Its Not my first classic car but certainly my first Jaguar.

I have twio quick questions, id appreciate some advice on please,

 

1. Considering the XJS went into production in 1975 do they have metric or imperial fittings?

 

2. Does the engine require a lead additive in the petrol ?

 

Thank you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Old Peter]

Welcome to the Club, Con.

 

I would have to make a guess at the metric or imperial question, but I had to change my imperial spanners for metric only recently, so my guess is that a 1988 model will be imperial.  The spanner test will get it right!

 

On the question of lead additive being required, again 1988 is around the time unleaded petrol came in so it could be either.  I will check and get back to you.

 

Look out for my S Type in late June when she will be wandering around Clare and Galway  ---  Doolin being a place we are certainly heading to!

 

Regards,

 

Peter.

[Old Peter]

Hi Con,

 

Back to the fuel   ----  I have done some checks around and it does appear that the 1988 Jaguar will run on 95 RON unleaded, although some say 98RON is better.

 

I will have another look to be on the safe side, though.

 

Regards,

 

Peter.

[Old Peter]

Hi Con,

 

I have just found a definitive answer,  Catalytic converters were introduced in 1975 and were being fitted on many cars.  It was found that leaded fuel destroyed the Catalytic Converter, so the pressure was put on the fuel companies to get the fuel right.

 

Jaguar was owned by British Leyland at the time when your car was built, and I can recall having a meeting plus a very good dinner with the British Leyland General Manager sometime about 1985 at which the use of unleaded fuel in all engines was discussed.

 

So if you car has a Catalytic converter it will run on unleaded.

 

Better safe than sorry!

 

Regards,

 

Peter.

[KEN33Y]

Hi Con, Peter has given you some great answers for which he have obviously researched. With regard to metric / imperial fittings unfortunately again tis would be the period of change over, I know I was using metric tools on my cars built after that period or even equal to that period.