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XJS6 or 12

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steve99

Jedi Trainee
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Hi Guys,

Im here from the Triumph department looking for input.

I'm pondering an XJS for a toy for mama, I see that there seem to be plenty listed for sale on the web, seems to be more 12's than 6's. I know nothing about these things but plan on doing most work myself. Any input, or suggestions where to look for info on these cars would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Steve
 
I have a 90 XJS Conv. with a V-12. I know a few people with XJS 6 cylander models, both coupe and conv.

If you want a coupe with a V-12, my suggestion is to stay with model years earlier than 89 when Marelli ignition was used.

If you want a V-12 conv., consider a 6.

If you don't mind a lot of maintenance, I like the V-12.

Bring a small mirror when you go to look at the car. Look for cracking of the hoses for the injectors. Feel the radiator hoses for pliability. There is a LOT of heat under the hood. Rubber has a difficult time. Wiring harnesses deteriorate quickly. Brake fluid should be clear. Dark fluid will need to be bled and is a good sign that there may be rust on the rear caliper pistons that will eventually leak. Brakes are inboard until 1992. There are not fun to remove.

The whole front suspension cross member is mounted in rubber bushings. Look for signs of cracks in the bushing rubbers.

Look at the condition of the rubber bushings for the trailing arms for the rear suspension.

The rear suspension is mounted in rubber bushings that you can see with your mirror at the 10 & 2 o'clock position behind the rear tires.

These are just some of the basics to look at.

Good luck. I had a TR-3 and TR-4. Jags are a lot more complex, but I find it a great car...when it runs.
 
Michael,

Thanks for the input. I currently own a 79 TR7 which I like, quite a bit. I assumed the XJS would be quite a bit more complex, however I was not aware of the inboard rear break hardware, that sounds like a weekend "brain damage" type project to me (or longer).I think I'll stick with the later 6's, there seems to be plenty of them out there if I would go to either Chicago, or Minneapolis, ( I'm exactly half way in between).
 
Michael,

Thanks for the input. I currently own a 79 TR7 which I like, quite a bit. I assumed the XJS would be quite a bit more complex, however I was not aware of the inboard rear break hardware, that sounds like a weekend "brain damage" type project to me (or longer).I think I'll stick with the later 6's, there seems to be plenty of them out there if I would go to either Chicago, or Minneapolis, ( I'm exactly half way in between).
 
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