How dare you cut apart the XJS. It is a work of art

Own a 1995 convertible 4.0 XJS, imported some 10 years ago from Arizona / Phoenix, with about 65k miles and fortunately with no rust at all. Admire your knowledge and perseverance to restore this vintage lady and subscribed. The XJS modell was even created by William Lyons himself with assistance of a wooden image, standing before his country house. Best regards from the Netherlands.

I doff my cap to you sir , what a labour of love to take on! I thought I had taken on the father of all projects with my own XJS but you put me in the shade all day long! Engine sounds great,I wish you luck.

Manual swapped with power upgrades. I'm pretty sure there's an acient proverb somewhere that says "there is no greater aim in life than a well modded XJS". Subbed.

Been there, done that with three 1980's V12 XJS's, but you have more skill. No matter how much money and time I put into them, there is always some issue that I need to fix. But if you are brave and up to the challenge, I recommend that you take the motor out and have it completely rebuilt. Then buy all new GM parts that came with the car such as the transmission, starter, water pump, bearings, etc. Either do it now, or you will be forced to do it later, but it is much, much harder and expensive once the motor is in. But under no circumstances, do not put a V8 motor in the car, as tempting as it may be. But once you are done restoring the old Jag, it is like dating a supermodel.

It sounds like a Balrog! Hope for a first drive in 2022!

I love it that the dude is standing there in a face shield with a fire extinguisher. Made me smile on a Monday morning.

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

I still laugh at that to this day

Very cool project, something about it sitting on steelies with nearly no chrome is a great look too

There’s rust in any vehicle and great job keep up the great work it’s your ambition to build it to your satisfaction

Great dream to have.. I'm a licensed automotive technician of over 45 years, seen all fixed all. Jaguars have always lead the way innovation,, irs, inboard brakes, 4 wheel disc, V-12 etc.. unfortunately a cluster F_ _ K for management and arrogance.. we have an 86 xjs, for over 23 years.. sat for 5 now. Until 2 years ago my 16 yr old son wanted to bring it back to life.. we gave it for his birthday, and started restoring it.. now it's become a restomod.. engine bay, completely cleaned up, no wiring ,, all polished aluminum engine, and everything else chromed, port and polished intakes, all holes filled, custom snorkels, shaved door handles, custom interior, blasted & powdered coated entire suspension , all new high pressure plastic fuel injected lines, special brake lines, single adjustable fuel regulator. Relocated battery , fuel pump and removed the useless fuel catch can in the trunk.. 20 spoke rims, 18x9 on 265/45-18. The car is absolutely smooth, no signals in front,, no handles, even the fuel door lip is shaved flat. Long story short, my son and I have spent 2 years building and having fun and dreams.. These are incredible and beautiful cars.. great handling with very little mods or add ons.. don't stop dreaming,, plus this car will make you a bloody genius when your done..

I totally get it.The XJS was my dream car.When I made some money I should have bought one.I ended up buying a Aston DB9.Love your passion and V12's.SUBSCRIBED.

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

Aston's are definitely really cool.

It is super exciting to have a running Jaguar v12 engine🎉

@3xeplodng_3agle_studios

Ай бұрын

Agreed!

Keep going. They are amazing and very under valued cars. My XJ-S is a HE Preface lift V12 DHC 1990. Drove it through 10 European Countries in 7 days 2000 miles and 5 Alpine passes - no issues and 21.5MPH!!

Keep going its brilliant to watch.

Glad you're saving one. I think these are some of the most beautiful cars ever made and like you, I like it more than the E Type. These things are dissapearing and I give it five years or so before they really start to shoot up in value because they've already begun to creep up a bit. Oh and like you I also want a C4 and I'm trying to make a decision on one of these or a C4.

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

For a while they were abundant at low prices but yeah, I'm already seeing that change. They've gotten more popular lately

@3xeplodng_3agle_studios

Ай бұрын

​@@just_don_thingsblame Doug Demuro 😂

Extremely brave of you to pick one so seemingly past it's EOL. I daily drive a '89 XJS with a Tremec Magnum 6-Speed. The work tends to never end with these cars and if you're a masochist it'll work out just fine! As long as you basically replace everything with a modern equivalent you'll be set in the reliability department. I'm actually jealous because when I bought mine it was practically in mint condition with super low miles, albeit significantly behind in proper maintenance. If I didn't have a complete car it would've been much easier to overhaul everything because the constant fear of "ruining" the car was always on the back of my mind. In your case, there's not much more that could possibly go wrong with it because you're most definitely the best thing this car has seen in years and I wish you the absolute best of luck with such a crazy and ambitious project!! You probably already know a vast majority about this so this might not pertain to you! There's a lot of amazing forums and guides available for this car. I'd honestly start with Kirby Palm's Jaguar XJ-S Help Book. The Book has saved me, and just about everyone else some major headaches and potentially saved lives. A lot of people get terrified of this car because of how complex it appears, and it's actually quite simple. In the end it's still just air, fuel, and spark. Trace back the problem to it's roots and if you're extremely lucky another mechanic didn't already attempt to fix it while also fucking shit up and making it worse which tends to be the case more often than not. Reliability and peace of mind comes from rewiring and simplifying the multiple harnesses, I went with a MaxxECU PRO with CNP and redesigned the fuel rail to be two separate sends and returns for each bank (quite overkill, didn't cost much more to do and not only does it tidy up and simplify the engine bay, but it allows me to quench the thirst of the might V12), engine cooling is absolutely crucial, these engines are not only known for fires but also dropping valve seats. Porting and valve jobs in general aren't really practical for this engine for how little the performance gain is and cam shafts could allow you to lose mid-range torque and with a V12 that might negatively impact your everyday cruising experience. The road to 500bhp is possible without such modifications anyway. Times have changed a bit since I last checked so if you can get a good deal at a machine shop (and some fun money to spend) it may in fact be worth going all out with modifying the heads; the little power improvements do certainly add up in the end, albeit not as drastic as other platforms. The next project with this car for me personally is probably going to be ITBs or go all out with AJ6 dual cam heads for the ultimate waste of cash. The brakes and suspension are needing attention and I reallllly should do something but I'm an idiot and neglect the important safety shit and skip directly to the fun stuff. I'm also thinking of doing an electronic steering rack, or just any other rack would be better, the four XJS cars I've driven all felt like they have sloppy steering either by design for touring or just old age?? Best of luck with the ol' "shitbox", I will most certainly be watching every video with utmost anticipation!

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks man! I've definitely gone through Kirby's pdf multiple times haha. I get what you mean with chasing for power, and I agree; that would be experimentation way long after this car is manual swapped and more sorted, when I probably have another spare engine or two to play with.

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

And wow, you're only the second person I've seen with the T56 on their XJS. That's the one I want.

@3xeplodng_3agle_studios

Ай бұрын

Question. Did your tremec swap require an adapter?

Currently in the same boat as you my friend. Can't wait to see how your XJS comes along, it will definitely inspire my 1987 XJS project.

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

Good luck to you! It's definitely, definitely a lot of work.

@lebojay

2 жыл бұрын

I have an ‘87 too!

That thing sounds nice.

I'm glad you are bringing it back to life. Good for you. Rockauto is a good source. They front calipers for $58 each. That save me a lot of headaches.

It a little overwhelming but when you get it done it will be unique especially if you make it like a TWR I live in Coventry England where this car would have been made

You sound similar to me and have similar ambitions with your XJS. You gained a sub today.

❤absolutely love your tenacity and enthusiasm... I would have chosen a car in a better condition to start off with... but you won't get cooker... keep it up and continue enjoying it

Awesome work. Really enjoyed your dedication to this car. You brought one back from the brink. I have an XJS too. They are never-ending work, but respect to you for starting from a harder place! You will have so much satisfaction as it comes together.

I am full of admiration! If you persist you will have an amazing car. I have owned 3 XJS' and enjoyed every single mile of ownership. Look forward to following your journey. Good luck!

Very brave man !! Good luck

Keep us posted on your progress. Once it’s drivable you’ll be rewarded for all your efforts.

Respect my friend!

I love the video man keep them coming!

Helluva project there. I've got an 88 that doesn't run quite right, subbed and following along hoping for some hints. Good luck!

Great video and looking forward to seeing the progress. I love the rat look on an XJS, looks bad ass 👍🏻👍🏻

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks man!

Awesome man that was fun to watch cheers 👌

Dude I give you credit these cars aren’t for the faint of heart, in fact you’re probably glutton for punishment but they have a charm that most cars don’t have, I’m currently working on a LISTER and I’m beginning to question life at this point 🤣🤣🤣. I’ve subscribed and will be following along from here on.

@just_don_things

3 ай бұрын

Oh man, a Lister...

Great video, really liked how it was put together. Also making me shit myself thinking about what mine is going to be like to restore 😂

@just_don_things

Жыл бұрын

Hopefully you didn't get a pile like mine hahaha

Getting there man! That is gonna be a sick ride.

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ben!!

@heyabusa1

2 жыл бұрын

@@just_don_things Had an XJ12. As you'll know the identical engine. Yes you'll need to keep on top of the servicing/ancillaries etc but the basic engine is bullet proof so if its running now providing you look after it, oil, filters etc the usual, it'll give you good service and when its on the road trust me you'll love it. You probably already know about it but check out what Harry did to his V12 in his XJ12 Coupe in Harry's Garage kzread.info/dash/bejne/gGauyZqfmtraeaQ.html. ok, that was big bucks but it shows the potential in that very unstressed engine. Summat to think you've got all of that in yours. Where else does the normal Joe get his hands on an engine like that - Lamborghini, Ferrari etc etc Anyway, wait till youve got her sorted and on the road. You wont regret it. Good luck.

You are killing it brother (or more like "it" is killing you). Either way, fantastic choice! It's going to be so sick once done... damn it looks sick already. Keep grinding, Don! You are an inspiration!

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

Dude. DOSI!!! Thank you so much dude, so awesome to hear from you.

Awesome Love it

You have taken on quite a project their check these out for some thought proviking insights which might help you along the way on youtube living with a classic Adam in Sweden and TJM the Jagman down under good luck with your XJS best wishes Andy Allen

I feel your pain .

Good luck dude! Sounds mean :)

I'm trying to wrap my head around why an intelligent, savvy, and knowledgeable guy like yourself would choose to resurrect a clearly abused V12 XJS when for about the same money (unfortunately) you could have found a more solid example. The poor reputation and relative complexity of Jaguar's V12 engine means that many less adventurous and indeed knowledgeable owners of XJS V12 engined cars more or less abandoned them in reasonable condition with non-threatening mileage. A search of Facebook Marketplace and Craigs List should confirm this fact. Having made that point, I want to congratulate and thank you for your dedication and saving an undeserving XJS from a certain fate in the boneyard. As I sit in my 1995 V12 6.0 liter V12 and enjoy the sheer wonder of this beast, I sincerely hope that one day you will realize the fruits of your labor. I'll be watching!

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

We'll like I said, I wanted a blank slate that I wouldn't feed bad learning on and cutting up, I wanted a preHE in particular, and I was broke as shit at the time. These cars aren't all that common compared to even back when I bought it, and even moreso for a preHE. Every decent example I've seen now is 10x the price of this one I got.

@christophercrawford3636

2 жыл бұрын

@@just_don_things You clearly enjoy the "learning and cutting-up process. I just think you could, for a few dollars more have found a more worthy "decent" example upon which to achieve the same level of enjoyment.

I have had 3 xjs all mid 80s 2 with the V12s and one with a big block Chevy Converted to stick it was a beast Like refined Corvette I made custom Trailing arm to put the power down It would lift that big heavy nose up In air no problem but my true admiration is the 5.3 v 12 it is so awesome when it Runs right stay on it , with these cars it not How fast you make them it’s how they Make you feel it’s a British Ferrari Now at electrical part to save time Complexity take out all the factory wiring Except the engine management Put in an aftermarket street rod fuse Box and wiring to control all the lights Because the early cars had the worst Lucas electricals just saying. One good is the early engine Management crane makes a distributor module for the E type to eliminate the Opes trigger, the biggest Issue with the v12 is temperature Control you have put an aluminum Radiator with twin electric fans a strong alternator to run them If it over heats it game over Keep going you really have the Right approach to the whole Thing once master the xjs All other cars like childs play

So badass. Nice job. I have a '95 and really don't care about originality or being pretty. Just want it to be cool and a driver. The more warts and "patina" the better.

@just_don_things

Жыл бұрын

Exact same for me. People tell me to get the body and paint all nice and I'm like..... this is not the right candidate for that.....

@just_don_things

Жыл бұрын

Give me V12 sound with a manual transmission and I'll be a happy boi

great, stay tuned..... i will be beter as long you work on it... trust me...

I got my Jaguar xj6 91 to go 1:30 and I had a lot of pedal left

There is a kit to replace the Lucas injection with some lovely carbs. See the Car Wizard video for this V12 engine (in a swapped US vehicle).

@alexandrecouture2462

2 жыл бұрын

This is a mistake the Car Wizard do o ditch the injection. I have slightly newer Lucas injection in my Jaguar XJ40 and it is reliable.

He hasn't driven it because he can't afford the fuel, I know I had one 😂

Dude dont feel bad, its my dream car also. Only boomers like the E-Type

@just_don_things

Жыл бұрын

There's just something so cool about the XJS.

Work on v12 engine????? Good luck... u will need it. I have one 1982 ...

Is it normal for the bonnet to open from the windscreen side? Mines opens from twhere your hinges are 😂

@just_don_things

Жыл бұрын

It's normal when the hood isn't installed haha

KZread is being cruel..... I had to sell my own xjs because I couldn't afford to fix it up, because it's so fuckin complicated, and getting the engine swapped out was also expensive, not to mention there was only one shop IN THE ENTIRE STATE willing to work on it, but it would also be expensive

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

I can't even imagine trying to find anyone else to try working on an old xjs.

@Silencio_boy

2 жыл бұрын

@@just_don_things yeah, I cried when I sold it, but I'm definitely excited to see where your car is headed 👀

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

@@Silencio_boy it sucks that they're so hard for almost anyone to work on, because I think they're so damn cool and have so much potential. I would cry if I had to get rid of this one :(

@Silencio_boy

2 жыл бұрын

@@just_don_things I mean, yeah it was hard,but I was gonna try, just didn't have the money for it. Once I save some up, I plan on getting another one to fix it up without too much worry

Wait, did you say C4? yikes. anyway, Cool Car. I'm a bit partial to my 77 XJ12

@just_don_things

6 ай бұрын

What can I say, I have a lot of questionable desires. Next I want a Lotus Esprit S1.

@randymiller6197

6 ай бұрын

@@just_don_things Fair enough, ya like what ya like.I have a 77 xj12. Runs ok looks gorgeous. I'm very happy with that. Cheers!

Bro please keep the patina 😭😅

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

Forever

@akuaku3496

2 жыл бұрын

@@just_don_things its just disappointing when people paint over all of it... I mean it tells the story of the cars life obviously cleaning it up is okay like covering bondo or whatever but in general everyone loves old rusty looking cars

@just_don_things

2 жыл бұрын

@@akuaku3496 I could see it if this was a car that had potential to look really clean, but it absolutely doesn't lol.

Y U RUNE KLASSIC?

@just_don_things

8 ай бұрын

Lol

You can put an LS motor in that car to make motor mounts for it

it does not sound right. cool yes, but it should be smoother.

It’s not pronounced Jagwar it’s pronounced jag-you - are .

Very interesting project but you need to stop swearing on KZread Don. No need for that really.