I have recently inherited my dad's 1969 XKE, and I am ready to start getting it back in shape. He was the original owner....it has fewer than 40k miles on it. But it has been sitting for at least 10 years. My brother and my dad are the only ones who have ever worked on the car so i am really nervous about how to find a reputable mechanic to get it running again. Any referrals or insights are appreciated.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 08/14/2017 - 10:10

Looking for a shop near Raleigh, NC any tips would be appreciated
The car is a 1969 E Type 4.2 that was fully restored about 25 years ago but has sat for at least 10

Submitted by Rob@ThussLawOf… on Thu, 04/12/2012 - 21:33

I'd suggest getting together a really good set of detailed pictures and any service records and car history that you can put your hands on. There are going to be a few safe shops in your locale and stretching out a bit, in the region. Then, depending on the car's condition, your budget and goals, I'd get quotes. Dealing with a 50 yr old car that's been off the road for 10 yrs, there are potentially lots of issues. These cars like to be run, and when they've set up for a while, they need to be put into run condition and then run ... and during the break in period, it's not unlikely older or weak parts may fail. Also, depending on condition and whether your car's a roadster or coupe, has a/c, auto or stick, etc., there's a point of diminishing return, and also factor how often you desire to run the car, and if the car's going to be run during the hot months and in traffic or open road etc. ... all these are variables to be taken into consideration. When you get to the point of deciding who'll principally work on the car and decide to do major work, you might also contact Darryl Beech at Charleston Import Auto for a quote. In other words, if you find there's major mechanical and cosmetic work to undertake, getting quotes outside Atlanta is ok, although ultimately you will need a trusted local shop. Again, the car's age and period without maintenance or running the car would cause me to expect after it's up and running, there's going to be a break in and teething period to iron out problems, so at that point a more distant shop becomes unpractical to address those issues. You also want a contract that spells out what work is going to be performed, keeping in mind that after the initial work is performed, it is likely additional issues may arise. Cheers.

Submitted by SE57-50027 on Wed, 04/11/2012 - 08:18

I can also recommend Cy Chapman in Marietta, of Auto Benz. His phone number is 770-333-0119. I have over 30 collector cars that he either maintains, repairs, and / or has restored, including a 1971 XKE and a 1988 XJS. He does excellent work, he is very concerned with keeping the cars original to their design, and he is very fair in his pricing of services. You will not be disappointed.

Jack Nicholson

Submitted by howardbollinge… on Wed, 04/11/2012 - 05:47

Jennifer,

First person to call is Dick Maury at Coventry West Jaguar in Lithonia. He happens to be the President of JCNA and he can give you the best guidance possible as to how to get your car back in shape. (

Dick also happens to be one of the nicest guys I've ever met. Call him at 770 484 6500 or 800 331 2193.