In preparation for a tune up, I am trying to determine how best to access and clean out the Vee. I have been advised that it's best to start by raising the front end about 6 inches to create a rearward tilt. Then remove the fuel rail (after depressurizing the fuel system) and the distributor cap and wires, and tilt the A/C compressor forward and out of the way. Next put a plastic bag over the distributor and wash down and degrease the vee with all the goo washing down and flowing to the rear of the engine. Now, do I need to remove the little mini- coil attached to the throttle pedestal in order to remove the distributor cap? I noticed I have a larger type coil as well forward of the radiator , mounted just behind the grill. Do I need to remove the Throttle pedestal also? When removing fuel rail, will there be a lot of fuel draining out on the engine, or can this be contained? Any and all suggestions are welcome! Thanks in advance. Re vacuum advance, can it be changed with the distributor in place, or does the distrib. need to come out?

Rodd Leeds
1988 XJS Cabriolet, 5.3

Submitted by rleeds9@yahoo.com on Thu, 06/22/2006 - 14:52

Doug-
Sorry it took me so long to get back re the main coil up at the front of the radiator-- there are wires attached to the terminals; however, I don't know where they are going to. (Obviously there is no high voltage wire at the center.) I would imageine they go to the wmaller coil on the Throttle pedestal. I'll have to meter them out and see if they are, in fact, connected to the smaller coil.

Rodd Leeds
1988 5.3 XJS-C

Submitted by dougdwyer@adel… on Thu, 06/15/2006 - 00:25

This may help....

http://www.jag-lovers.org/snaps/snap_view.php3?id=1150191758

http://www.jag-lovers.org/snaps/snap_view.php3?id=1150191228

http://www.jag-lovers.org/snaps/snap_view.php3?id=1150190029

Leave the AAV alone if you don't have any issues with it

Fuel pressure is non adjustable

Don't adjust the ECU unless you have good reason to do so.....it is not a normal service procedure.

Doug Dwyer
Longview Washington USA
1987 XJ6 Ser III
1988 XJS V12 Coupe

Submitted by rleeds9@yahoo.com on Thu, 06/15/2006 - 00:09

Thanks, Doug! Regarding removing distributor to replace vac advance and check weights and springs-- is this something an amateur can do, or is it best left to a pro? I've read the Book on distributor removal and am a little nervous about removing and being able to get it back in again. I didn't quite follow the procedure. My experience is limited to setting timing--I've never removed a distributor before. Also, I know the hose from the top of the distributor goes to the AAV at rear of the left intake manifold. Does this AAV need to be serviced, or only if there is a high idle condition? Also, before I start the tune up I will do a fuel pressure test. If I have high pressure can it be adjusted via the ECU in the trunk, and if so, does a special meter need to be used that is only available from Jaguar? Should I complete my tune -up and then bring to someone with the right instrument to set up the ECU?

Rodd Leeds
1988 5.3 Cabriolet

Submitted by dougdwyer@adel… on Wed, 06/14/2006 - 22:01

Removing the fuel rail: are you replacing fuel hoses, too? You should. Best to remove the rail by unbolting injectors and lifting the whole enchilada up as an assembly. Get new injector seals. A few ounces of fuel is held in the rail.

I would remove the pedestal and the coil....more room to work

Is the front (auxilary) coil still wired in ? Just curious

I far as I know the only practical way to deal with the vac advance is with the dist out of the car

Make a note of your engine number....stamped at the rear of the "vee". This will be the only time you'll ever see it

Be gentle in dealing with any wiring...especially injector wiring. it'll be old and brittle. Many build a new harness

I hope you are not planning on doing all of this in a single afternoon....you'll find other thing needing attention...wires, vacuum hoses, and such

Take LOTS of notes and /or pics for reassembly

There is only one way to work on a Jag V12: slowly. If you rush the car will resist you every step of the way

Snug the inlet manifold nuts...they often loosen up a bit. If you wanna go whole hog replace the manifold gaskets while you are at it

Doug Dwyer
Longview Washington USA
1987 XJ6 Ser III
1988 XJS V12 Coupe