Although it's been a while since our last newsletter, you certainly have not let us rest on our laurels. The sheer demand, via phone, fax and emails, has shown us that you have all been exceptionally busy with your XKs. Pretty much the last 18 months has been non-stop! I would like to thank all of you for your support.

What Recession?

Sometimes customers have suffered frustration at the delays we can experience with suppliers.
I think that all the talk of recession and doom made most of the XK parts manufacturers cautious about building-up any stocks unnecessarily. However, their fears have been allayed as demand still outstrips supply in most cases.

Currency Impact

Long term stability is best for all concerned, not highs and lows as so often seen in the boom and the bust world of financiers. The rather waek pound has led to cars in the UK being purchased by overseas customers, with a few going back to America from where so many had been sourced by UK dealers. US customers are now aware of the shortage of good cars so are now actively collecting once again. We have new customers from Eastern Europe who also appreciate the beauty and exclusivity of the XK.

Enjoy!

In short there are just not enough XKs to fill the garages of would-be owners. Demand is high, supply is low and so it's time to enjoy XK for all it's worth. You may not get many more chances.

It's that time of year when those of us in the more temperate parts of the world start believing that winter may soon start giving way to summer. That means it's time to pull the dust sheets off the XK and get it ready for those lovely summer days. If you're an XK owner, you have to be an optimist!

Leaving a car standing for long periods is not particularly good for it, even if it's kept dry and warm. You should always take a car out of hibernation with great care so you don't risk doing damage, and for your own safety. Our advice is always to give the car a thorough check-over before you take it on the road and give it a service, even if it is not due for one.

Jaguar handbooks are a must and they are far better than any modern equivalent in showing you what to do and how to do it. If you haven't got one for your car, we keep reprints of them all, as well as worshop manuals for the more adventurous. ... CONTACT US.

Visual

The first job before you do anything else is a visual inspection. Check the tyres for condition and pressures. The age of a tyre is just as significant as its tread depth. Old tyres should be replaced if they are hard and cracked, even if the tread is excellent.

Leaks

Now get down on your knees and check under the car for leaks. You are bound to find the odd drips of oil around the centre of the rear axle, the back of the gearbox, under the bell housing and, on 120s with original steering, under the steering box. If you haven't got any drips, you either have an exceptional car or lack of oil! If you have a lot, then you should check why.

More importantly check around the wheels and brakes for any sign of leaking brake fluid - especially if you have drum brakes. READ MORE