Is there such a thing as a manual XK8

[Martec]

Hi,

Just a daft question, has anyone ever fitted a manual gearbox to an early XK8? The reason for asking is I've been told of one that has to be sold and think is an early one, but I don't like auto's (we have a manual MkII and Manual S type).

Finding and fitting a gearbox should be relatively easy compared to telling the electronics/computer there isn't an auto box there anymore! I assume that would upset traction control as well?

Brian

[Nik]

Hi Brian ,
Jaguar did a one off manual themselves complete with a SType rear axle assembly ,
another company Elite at Derby did a conversion , has since been sold by them and a couple of times on Ebay so I guess it wasn't successful (partly due to the diff ratio being wildly out!!)
The good news is that Norman Durban (who is a JEC member) has himself fitted a six speed box to his much modified XKR recently (in fact I'm due to go down to Brands Hatch for testing next month) .
The only other car I know of has Norman's five speed prototype fitted to it and belongs to Graham, a mate of mine ,
All of these cars have a black magic box that fools the ECU into thinking there is an auto box still in place , as far as I know the ABS and traction control are unaffected but then again Norman's car has a Quaife limited slip diff fitted so his traction is well under control

All the best

Nik

[Martec]

Thanks Nik for the speedy reply,

If it has been done before its not impossibleand I've copied others ideas before. It would be interesting to know the details of which box used and the fitting and electronic snags along the way. If your breaking new ground you can always think of a way you could have done it better.

I hope there will be an article in the magazine.

Brian