Thedrivenman

Hey Peter, I am getting some chatter when I release the clutch at lower rpm's from a dead stop. Have to give it a good blip to avoid chatter and of course there is no issue when in motion. Is this the problem that you are referencing?

Hahaha, 'tis a mailbox! Not to worry, Big Cat hadn't expired...

Well, the tow truck wasn't what peaked my interest, when I seen what looks like a fresh cross to the right In was really interested!

Big Cat and I have an "understanding" ;-)

I'm surprised the car even starts for you if that's the story...If my Avatar showed an unflattering picture of my wife I'd be denied privileges!

William, it is indeed a AAA tow truck. This photo was taken several years ago after the Big Cat overheated and blew the head gaskets. I liked the picture ;-) so it became my avatar...

George, is that a tow truck in front of the S ?

The driving experience will certainly be vastly different because the V12 is a totally different animal in front of a manual transmission, even a four speed. Enjoy!

I saw the TDM display at the Challenge Championship and the parts looked solid enough. I was mostly interested to know if the clutch release was part of the problem, as this has been cited for V12s previously and they've been sent engineering details of how to sort it out for future customers. Hopefully that aspect at least has now been remedied. Been to Greensboro a few times when my stepson was at UNCG and hope to come to Little Switzerland next year.

Peter, I understand that TDM had to change suppliers so that may be part of the problem, which may sort itself out over time. But to answer your questions honestly it was a matter of incorrect parts, incomplete parts ( mounting holes not drilled ), and instructions for the wrong kit. Yes, a first time installation is always more difficult, but even a seasoned installer would have had the same issues in my opinion.

Yes, TDM has sold a lot of kits, but not sure how many were for a V12 Jag ;-) The overall quality of the parts seems quite good, but just have some correctable problems that have needlessly cost additional time and expense.

My guys feel that it will all come together nicely and I will have quite a different driving experience. Shop is Foreign Accents in Greensboro, NC, who is an advertiser in our JCNA NC newsletter. Great Jag tech, Chris B., takes care of my Big Cat as needed and is doing the TDM install.

Without crossing over into opinion or (possibly adverse) comment, were the issues with the parts themselves, a lack of parts, or inadequate instructions? I would expect to make allowances for a first-time installation of non-factory parts, on the basis that the second time around is always quicker/easier. But the parts themselves should fit and work correctly out of the box, once the installation is figured out.

Even using secondhand factory manual transmission parts, which is what I sell, there can be adaptation and 'fettling' required to put them in a LHD car or switch out the automatic stuff. But at least you know everything will ultimatelt fit and work as per the Jag workshop manual when you're done. TDM has been selling manual kits for some time so I'd expect any early kinks to have been ironed out by now? If your factual unadorned commentary matches that from other purchasers it would amount to more than anecdote and might convince them to sort out any consistently-appearing glitch(es) at source?

Just an update: kit was finally delivered, taking about double the quoted time. My guys that are installing it have run into one issue after another due to wrong parts or parts made incorrectly. They worked with the vendor to correct the issues, but finally just fixed them locally. I think that it is all going to end up with a nice installation, but no thanks to the supplier. If anyone else gets this kit, just be aware that it is going to take some ability to "punt", it is not the simple bolt in that is claimed. Will keep all posted on the end result.

George,

Try jag-lovers.org, I think it will work better.

Cheers,

OK, got it. Suspected as much. He just needs to communicate a little better. Thanks.

FWIW....

Complaints about S L O W delivery of 5-speed kits (among other things) from Driven Man have been going on for ages it seems.

To the best of my knowledge nobody has ever been outright stiffed. All the parts eventually DO arrive.

I suspect that he keeps nothing "on the shelf". When he gets an order from a customer he then places orders with *his* various suppliers and puts a kit together for shipment. I reckon several different vendors/manufacturers are in the mix....each one having the potential of delaying things. "For want of a nail..." type of thing.

Cheers
DD

Email me at browdernuventrs.com

I can't seem to log on to Jag-lovers.com

Thanks.

Do a search on www.jag-lovers.org re clutch cylinder issues.

Pete