Front subframe swap on a 1987 XJ-S coupe HELP!!!

[555ttg]

Hi everyone.
I just took on another XJ-S coupe,(for my sins!), this one had a surprise in store for me, the front sub-frame is losing metal through rust. It is the only area of concern, although the driver's floor will need renewing as well.
My request for help is this;

I know the sub-frames from the series 3 saloons is interchangeable, with the XJ-S, but can anyone tell me if the front sub-frame from a series 1 saloon, is also the same? The reason being that although I have a series 3 that can 'donate' it's front sub-frame, I already have started 'cannibalising' a series 1 4.2 saloon, that would be my preferred choice of donor for the sub-frame swap. I've asked the guys on Jag-lovers, who confirm that the series 3 cars can be swapped, but no answers from that source as to whether the series 1 can do as well.
Looking forward to your replies.
Phil

[Telsmoneypit]

I can't see any reason why a series one subframe won't fit. Engine mounts will be different depending on which engine you have in your XJ-S of course...
But why, if you have a 1987 car which has a rusty frame, would you want to replace it with an older unit? Series 1's were only in production 1968-74. More time for rust to set in surely?

Sensibility dictates use the newest subframe you can (i.e. Series 3) but ONLY if it is totally free of tin worm and dripping with waxoyl...

I've done a subby swap and tbh, I wouldn't want to do it again

[555ttg]

Tel,
Thanks for the reply. The only reason I want to use the series 1 front subframe, is that I have a parts car which is donating all I can get off it, for all my other cars. It has already donated it's seating, for my series 1 XJ12, it gave it's gearbox, for another series 1 I have, and various odds & bobs, for other cars in the 'fleet', and rather than start dismantling my series 3 cars, I thought I would get the subframe off this car. It is in very good condition btw, no rust.
The recipient is an '87 5.3 litre V12 coupe, which also needs the left hand floor replacing.
I have to be honest, the car is in pretty good condition, other than these 2 areas, and I have been wrestling with the idea of creating an 'eventer' styled estate. Any thoughts on that from anyone on the forum????
Phil

[Telsmoneypit]

Phil

Go with the Series one subframe. You have nothing to lose.
The XJ6 was supposed to contain the V12 engine when it was launched in 1968 but the engine wasn't ready...
I'll bet it's compatible.

Eventer? Interesting...Mrs T mentioned that she saw one the otherday!
You are a brave man if you are considering that type of conversion! I wish you well.....
I like the 'fastback' Lister that has been featured in the magazine and am seriously considering a similar conversion to my 3.6....Major work but nowhere near as difficult as an 'Eventer' conversion...

Good luck!

Tel

[555ttg]

Tel,
I saw the 'fastback' Lister in the club magazine too, and I liked it very much. I've always had a hankering after an Eventer though, I missed one 3 or 4 years ago, in Norfolk, for £1500 !!!! An early car, I think no.18 or so????I can't remember. There was a daughter, or granddaughter selling her deceased relative's Eventer, and was asking £1500 for it, as is,(it hadn't run in a few years). After telling her I would have it, I booked an air ticket, and flew to the UK, only to be told by her, when I called, that she had sold it the day before!!!! Grrrr....but what are you going to do?
Someone in the club sent me some plans a few years ago, and if I ever find them again, in my mess of stuff, then I will tackle it with the help of my local body man, who is very good. I have Great Dane dogs,(or did have, the last one passed on a couple of years ago), and the Eventer is low enough for the dog to get into the back, as opposed to the Rangey or Defender, so if I ever sort out an Eventer, then I will get another Dane!
Phil