1959 Jaguar MK1 4 door sedan with the correct Jaguar 3.4 L engine under restoration. The engine has developed problem with intermittent starting and running. It appears that the spark plugs in cylinders 1,3 become oil fouled after a short run time. A compression test of the engine is as follows for the cylinders (124, 129,127,127,130,125psi). The intake valve clearance ranges between .002 and .004. The exhaust valve clearance ranges between .005 and .006 inches. I believe that the problem is either worn valve stem seals or worn valve guides. The Jag also needs a completely new interior from headliner to carpeting and everything in between. I have been restoring Jags as a hobby from 1983 till now and am running out of steam and need to call it quits.
The following modifications were made on the subject 1959 JAGUAR MK1 during the restoration:
Completed before October 2023:
BorgWarner automatic transmission replaced with GMC T700 automatic transmission with a “JOHNS QURTER BREED KIT”.
Power steering system from Toyota replaced Jaguar manual steering gear,
Electrical circuits converted from positive ground to negative ground.
All body work and exterior cream finish on exterior body completed.
Replaced Lucas generator and regulator with GM alternator.
4 new Crome 15-inch wire wheels and Vredesteen tires with date code “1621” mounted on auto.
All the interior burled wood veneer re-stained and finished.
Stainless steel exhaust system installed.
Completed after October 2023:
Power steering system from a Toyota auto replaced with a Jaguar manual steering gear, turn signals, and horn button as original in 1959.
Electrical circuits converted back from negative ground to positive ground as manufactured in 1959.
Replaced GM alternator with original generator and voltage regulator as built in 1959.
Lucas voltage regulator converted from electro-mechanical to solid state.
Electronic highly modified tachometer replaced with the correct vintage “SMITHS” tachometer and cable drive.
All hydraulic brake lines replaced with Stainless steel lines custom made by “CLASSIC TUBE”.
All electrical wiring replaced with cloth covered harnesses from “BRITISH WIRING”.
Dual SU HD6 Carburetors rebuilt.
Distributor rebuilt by “ADVANCE DISTRIBUTOR”.
Master cylinder sleeved and rebuilt by “APPLE HYDRAULICS”.