XJ40s w/o Self-Leveling Suspension

XJ40
1

Hi Guys,

After owning just about every model of Jag made between '88 and '00 with the exception of the “late model” XJ40s, I’ve decided to finally look into buying one. Frankly, I don’t care for the block headlights and never did care for the block taillights on all XJ-40s, but I’m looking for maximum mechanical reliability and ease of repair, not aesthetics, which apparently (the former) is what that model is all about.

Back when I owned my '88 XJ-40s, ,I remember reading that in a certain model year Jag did away with the problematic SLS system as well as the HMOS “green blood” brake assist. :+1: I think this was beginning with the '93 MY, but possibly it wasn’t until the last year of the model ('94). When exactly did this change occur? :confused: Also, how many of these were made? I’m wondering how likely it is that I will even be able to find one of that type for sale in good shape.

Thanks for your help. :smile:

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by 1990 the xj40 didn’t use the green blood for the braking system. It did(does) still use it for the power steering, and sls systems. I have a 1991 xj40 that the previous owner converted to standard suspension, but it still uses the hydraulic oil for the power steering.

3

If you don’t like the look of them why buy one? Hair shirt time?

1 Like
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Mainly b/c the earlier XJ40s had issues, including that notorious breaking door handles problem. :confounded: I found the X-300s not quite built up to Jag specs for durability and reliability, IMHO … From clear coat peeling on the horizontal surfaces to rust to other deficiencies. It only got worse with the X-308s. The only rust issue for the early XJ40s, and I would assume this would still be an issue for the latter ones, is that area at the bottom of the boot, adjacent to the edge of the boot lid. If I do buy one, I will make sure to inspect that area first. :heavy_check_mark:

Thanks. :smile:

5

And early XJ40s had an corrosion issue at the corners of the rear window. This often appeared within the 6 year factory corrosion warranty. My 1990 which was always garaged and lived in a low humidity area, developed this issue at about 15 years age. I had it competently repaired (rear glass removed, etc) and now 14 years later it’s back. Doesn’t seem to be progressing so I just monitor it for now. I think there was a design flaw for the body which was corrected on the reskin in 1995 when the window corners were rounded off.

6

Exactly. One of my '88s had the same issue. :frowning_face: