www.jec.org.uk

OK, this is probably where I'll feel pretty dumb, but.....I have been trying to locate basic instructions for servicing my XK8 4.2 - you know, stuff like oil change, coolant change, brake fluid change, pollen filters, air cleaner...you get the picture.

Now I should explain that I'm an experienced mechanic and I'm not looking for simple stuff like "remove the sump plug" - I can work that out for myself. I just wanted to read through the factory procedures to "wise up" on any pitfalls or twists before tackling the job. But I can't find this sort of thing in my copy of the XK8 manual on JTIC, neither is it in the handbook, so where is it? Can anyone point me to where to find it on JTIC?

Thanks in advance
John

Hi John,
Forgive me for repeating some recent advice to another member but it may help.
There are a couple of ways of acquiring workshop information for your car. One is to subscribe to the Jaguar online system called Topix (http://topix.jaguar.jlrext.com/topix/i18n/index). This system is primarily designed to comply with the competition legislation to ensure that non franchised dealers have access to repair information. However, it is possible to buy access for as little as a single day’s viewing and for a single model rather than pay an expensive (four figure) sum for annual access to all Jaguar model information. The advantage of this system is that you receive the very latest information.
A cheaper alternative is to buy a JTIS (Jaguar Technical Information System) disk from somewhere like eBay. These disks relate to the old and now defunct Jaguar dealer system and can be bought for prices between £5 and £15. Similarly, the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust (jdht.com) now also supplies disks for the XK8 which include this same information plus other titbits. I believe the disks cost about £25 each. Occasionally, the JDHT releases hard copy manuals for the 1996 model year XK8, again for around £25. These manuals were only produced for that launch year of the XK8. However, they are incomplete, eg no wiring information, and as such, they are of limited value.
There are other sources of information available, mainly American in origin, but those I have seen are usually partial copies of JTIS disks so I wouldn’t bother with them.
The problem with all of the above is that the advice is writtten for Jaguar trained fitters working with all the factory approved tools so it does not contain 'Haynes manual' style advice for DIYers. As long as you have a basic understanding of vehicle mechanics, the best way to get to know your 4.2 litre is to start with simple lube servicing and work upwards. The only proviso I'd offer would be to know your own limits and have a plan B for those occasions when you reach them. Mike.

Hi Mike, thanks for the advice.

I do have a copy of the JTIS disc, and I guess my basic question was whether there are any servicing instructions on that system - try as I might I can't find any. I'm not worried about tackling the service work but before I attack any new car I always try to read up on the factory procedures just in case there are any oddities it would be good to be forewarned of.

For example knowing where all the coolant drain points are without having to go crawling all over the car looking for them is often a great timesaver.

If there aren't any, then there aren't any and I'll just crack on regardless. Thought it was worth asking.

Thanks again
John

Hi John,
There are no real pitfalls servicing these cars to an experienced mechanic although it would be usefull to know the Jaguar recommendations for material changes. Do you have a Jaguar Maintenance Schedule.
Regards
Bob Bate

When draining the oil, and the plug is removed, Jack the left-hand rear of the car up a few inches. This ensures the sump is fully emptied. (The drain plug's on the front right).
Mike W.