1997 JAGUAR XJ6 Workshop Manual

Engine block
Deck warpage limit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.076 mm (0.003 inch)
Cylinder bore diameter
Standard
Size group A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90.990 to 91.003 mm (3.5823 to 3.5828 inches)
Size group B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91.005 to 91.018 mm (3.5829 to 3.5834 inches)
Oversize
0.25 mm (0.010 inch) OS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91.259 to 91.272 mm (3.5929 to 3.5934 inches)
0.50 mm (0.020 inch) OS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91.513 to 91.526 mm (3.6029 to 3.6034 inches)
Pistons and rings
Piston-to-bore clearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.017 to 0.043 mm (0.0007 to 0.0017 inch)
Piston ring end gap
No.1 (top) compression ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.40 to 0.66 mm (0.016 to 0.026 inch)
No.2 (middle) compression ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.40 to 0.66 mm (0.016 to 0.026 inch)
Oil ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.30 to 0.55 mm (0.012 to 0.022 inch)
Piston ring groove clearance
No. 1 (top) compression ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.040 to 0.076 mm (0.0016 to 0.0030 inch)
No. 2 (middle) compression ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.040 to 0.076 mm (0.0016 to 0.0030 inch)
Torque wrench settingsNm lbf ft
Main bearing cap bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 to 142 100 to 105
Connecting rod cap nuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 to 60 37 to 44
* Note:Refer to Part A for additional torque specifications.
2B•2 Engine removal and overhaul procedures
3261 Jaguar XJ6
1 General information
Included in this portion of Chapter 2 are the
general overhaul procedures for the cylinder
head and internal engine components.
The information ranges from advice
concerning preparation for an overhaul and
the purchase of replacement parts to detailed,
step-by-step procedures covering removal
and refitting of internal engine components
and the inspection of parts.
The following Sections have been written
based on the assumption that the engine has
been removed from the vehicle. For
information concerning in-vehicle engine
repair, as well as removal and refitting of the
external components necessary for the
overhaul, see Part A of this Chapter.
The Specifications included in this Part are
only those necessary for the inspection and
overhaul procedures which follow. Refer to
Part A for additional Specifications.
2 Engine overhaul-
general information
It’s not always easy to determine when, or if,
an engine should be completely overhauled,
as a number of factors must be considered.
High mileage is not necessarily an indication
that an overhaul is needed, while low mileage
doesn’t preclude the need for an overhaul.
Frequency of servicing is probably the most
important consideration. An engine that’s had
regular and frequent oil and filter changes, as
well as other required maintenance, will most
likely give many thousands of miles of reliableservice. Conversely, a neglected engine may
require an overhaul very early in its life.
Excessive oil consumption is an indication
that piston rings, valve seals and/or valve
guides are in need of attention. Make sure that
oil leaks aren’t responsible before deciding
that the rings and/or guides are bad. Perform a
cylinder compression check to determine the
extent of the work required (see Section 4).
Also check the vacuum readings under various
conditions (see Section 3).
Check the oil pressure with a gauge
installed in place of the oil pressure sender
unit (see illustrations)and compare it to this
Chapter’s Specifications. If it’s extremely low,
the bearings and/or oil pump are probably
worn out.
Loss of power, rough running, knocking or
metallic engine noises, excessive valve train
noise and high fuel consumption rates may
also point to the need for an overhaul,
especially if they’re all present at the same
time. If a complete tune-up doesn’t remedy
the situation, major mechanical work is the
only solution.An engine overhaul involves restoring the
internal parts to the specifications of a new
engine. During an overhaul, the piston rings
are replaced and the cylinder walls are
reconditioned (rebored and/or honed). If a
rebore is done by an automotive machine
workshop, new oversize pistons will also be
installed. The main bearings, big-end bearings
and camshaft bearings are generally replaced
with new ones and, if necessary, the
crankshaft may be reground to restore the
journals. Generally, the valves are serviced as
well, since they’re usually in less-than-perfect
condition at this point. While the engine is
being overhauled, other components, such as
the distributor, starter and alternator, can be
rebuilt as well. The end result should be a like
new engine that will give many trouble free
miles. Note:Critical cooling system
components such as the hoses, drivebelts,
thermostat and water pump should be
replaced with new parts when an engine is
overhauled. The radiator should be checked
carefully to ensure that it isn’t clogged or
leaking (see Chapter 3).If you purchase a
2.4a The oil pressure sender unit (arrowed)
is located in the right front corner of the
engine block, near the oil filter2.4b The oil pressure can be checked by
removing the sender unit and refitting a
pressure gauge in its place

rebuilt engine or short block, some rebuilders
will not warranty their engines unless the
radiator has been professionally flushed. Also,
we don’t recommend overhauling the oil
pump - always refit a new one when an engine
is rebuilt.
Before beginning the engine overhaul, read
through the entire procedure to familiarise
yourself with the scope and requirements of
the job. Overhauling an engine isn’t difficult,
but it is time-consuming. Plan on the vehicle
being tied up for a minimum of two weeks,
especially if parts must be taken to an
automotive machine workshop for repair or
reconditioning. Check on availability of parts
and make sure that any necessary special
tools and equipment are obtained in advance.
Most work can be done with typical hand
tools, although a number of precision
measuring tools are required for inspecting
parts to determine if they must be renewed.
Often an automotive machine workshop will
handle the inspection of parts and offer
advice concerning reconditioning and
renewal. Note:Always wait until the engine
has been completely dismantled and all
components, especially the engine block,
have been inspected before deciding what
service and repair operations must be
performed by an automotive machine
workshop. Since the engine block’s condition
will be the major factor to consider when
determining whether to overhaul the original
engine or buy a rebuilt one, never purchase
parts or have machine work done on other
components until the engine block has been
thoroughly inspected. As a general rule, time
is the primary cost of an overhaul, so it
doesn’t pay to refit worn or substandard
parts.
If it turns out that a number of major
components are beyond reconditioning, it
may be cost effective to buy a factory-rebuilt
engine from a Jaguar dealership.
As a final note, to ensure maximum life and
minimum trouble from a rebuilt engine,
everything must be assembled with care in a
spotlessly-clean environment.
3 Vacuum gauge
diagnostic checks
2
A vacuum gauge provides valuable
information about what is going on in the
engine at a low cost. You can check for worn
rings or cylinder walls, leaking cylinder head or
intake manifold gaskets, incorrect carburettor
adjustments, restricted exhaust, stuck or
burned valves, weak valve springs, improper
ignition or valve timing and ignition problems.
Unfortunately, vacuum gauge readings are
easy to misinterpret, so they should be used
with other tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Both the absolute readings and the rate of
needle movement are important for accurate
interpretation. Most gauges measure vacuumin inches of mercury (in-Hg). As vacuum
increases (or atmospheric pressure decreases),
the reading will decrease. Also, for every
1000 foot increase in elevation above sea level;
the gauge readings will decrease about one
inch of mercury.
Connect the vacuum gauge directly to
intake manifold vacuum, not to ported (above
the throttle plate) vacuum (see illustration).
Be sure no hoses are left disconnected during
the test or false readings will result.
Before you begin the test, allow the engine
to warm up completely. Block the wheels and
set the handbrake. With the transmission in
Park, start the engine and allow it to run at
normal idle speed.
Warning: Carefully inspect the
fan blades for cracks or damage
before starting the engine. Keep
your hands and the vacuum
tester clear of the fan and do not stand in
front of the vehicle or in line with the fan
when the engine is running.
Read the vacuum gauge; an average,
healthy engine should normally produce
between 17 and 22 inches of vacuum with a
fairly steady needle.
Refer to the following vacuum gauge
readings and what they indicate about the
engines condition:
1A low steady reading usually indicates a
leaking gasket between the intake manifold
and carburettor or throttle body, a leaky
vacuum hose, late ignition timing or incorrect
camshaft timing. Check ignition timing with a
timing light and eliminate all other possible
causes, utilising the tests provided in this
Chapter before you remove the timing belt
cover to check the timing marks.
2If the reading is three to eight inches below
normal and it fluctuates at that low reading,
suspect an intake manifold gasket leak at an
intake port or a faulty injector.
3If the needle has regular drops of about two
to four inches at a steady rate the valves are
probably leaking. Perform a compression or
leak-down test to confirm this.
4An irregular drop or down-flick of the
needle can be caused by a sticking valve or
an ignition misfire. Perform a compression or
leak-down test and read the spark plugs.5A rapid vibration of about four in-Hg
vibration at idle combined with exhaust
smoke indicates worn valve guides. Perform a
leak-down test to confirm this. If the rapid
vibration occurs with an increase in engine
speed, check for a leaking intake manifold
gasket or cylinder head gasket, weak valve
springs, burned valves or ignition misfire.
6A slight fluctuation, say one inch up and
down, may mean ignition problems. Check all
the usual tune-up items and, if necessary, run
the engine on an ignition analyser.
7If there is a large fluctuation, perform a
compression or leak-down test to look for a
weak or dead cylinder or a blown cylinder
head gasket.
8If the needle moves slowly through a wide
range, check for a clogged PCV system,
incorrect idle fuel mixture, throttle body or
intake manifold gasket leaks.
9Check for a slow return after revving the
engine by quickly snapping the throttle open
until the engine reaches about 2,500 rpm and
let it shut. Normally the reading should drop to
near zero, rise above normal idle reading
(about 5 in.-Hg over) and then return to the
previous idle reading. If the vacuum returns
slowly and doesn’t peak when the throttle is
snapped shut, the rings may be worn. If there
is a long delay, look for a restricted exhaust
system (often the silencer or catalytic
converter). An easy way to check this is to
temporarily disconnect the exhaust ahead of
the suspected part and redo the test.
4 Cylinder compression check
2
1A compression check will tell you what
mechanical condition the upper end (pistons,
rings, valves, cylinder head gasket) of your
engine is in. Specifically, it can tell you if the
compression is down due to leakage caused
by worn piston rings, defective valves and
seats or a blown cylinder head gasket. Note:
The engine must be at normal operating
temperature and the battery must be fully
charged for this check.
2Begin by cleaning the area around the
spark plugs before you remove them
(compressed air should be used, if available,
otherwise a small brush or even a bicycle tyre
pump will work). The idea is to prevent dirt
from getting into the cylinders as the
compression check is being done.
3Remove all of the spark plugs from the
engine (see Chapter 1).
4Block the throttle wide open.
5Detach the coil wire from the centre of the
distributor cap and ground it on the engine
block. Use a jumper wire with alligator clips on
each end to ensure a good earth. Also,
remove the fuel pump relay (see Chapter 4) to
disable the fuel pump during the compression
test.
Engine removal and overhaul procedures 2B•3
2B
3.4 The vacuum gauge is easily attached
to a port on the intake manifold, and can
tell a lot about an engine’s state of tune
3261 Jaguar XJ6

6Refit the compression gauge in the spark
plug hole (see illustration).
7Crank the engine over at least seven
compression strokes and watch the gauge.
The compression should build up quickly in a
healthy engine. Low compression on the first
stroke, followed by gradually increasing
pressure on successive strokes, indicates
worn piston rings. A low compression reading
on the first stroke, which doesn’t build up
during successive strokes, indicates leaking
valves or a blown cylinder head gasket (a
cracked cylinder head could also be the
cause). Deposits on the undersides of the
valve heads can also cause low compression.
Record the highest gauge reading obtained.
8Repeat the procedure for the remaining
cylinders and compare the results to this
Chapter’s Specifications.
9Add some engine oil (about three squirts
from a plunger-type oil can) to each cylinder,
through the spark plug hole, and repeat the
test.
10If the compression increases after the oil
is added, the piston rings are definitely worn.
If the compression doesn’t increase
significantly, the leakage is occurring at the
valves or cylinder head gasket. Leakage past
the valves may be caused by burned valve
seats and/or faces or warped, cracked or bent
valves.
11If two adjacent cylinders have equally low
compression, there’s a strong possibility that
the cylinder head gasket between them is
blown. The appearance of coolant in the
combustion chambers or the crankcase
would verify this condition.
12If one cylinder is 20 percent lower than the
others, and the engine has a slightly rough
idle, a worn exhaust lobe on the camshaft
could be the cause.
13If the compression is unusually high, the
combustion chambers are probably coated
with carbon deposits. If that’s the case, the
cylinder head(s) should be removed and
decarbonised.
14If compression is way down or varies
greatly between cylinders, it would be a goodidea to have a leak-down test performed by
an automotive repair workshop. This test will
pinpoint exactly where the leakage is
occurring and how severe it is.
5 Engine removal-
methods and precautions
If you’ve decided that an engine must be
removed for overhaul or major repair work,
several preliminary steps should be taken.
Locating a suitable place to work is
extremely important. Adequate work space,
along with storage space for the vehicle, will
be needed. If a workshop or garage isn’t
available, at the very least a flat, level, clean
work surface made of concrete or asphalt is
required.
Cleaning the engine compartment and
engine before beginning the removal
procedure will help keep tools clean and
organised.
An engine hoist or A-frame will also be
necessary. Make sure the equipment is rated
in excess of the combined weight of the
engine and transmission. Safety is of primary
importance, considering the potential hazards
involved in lifting the engine out of the vehicle.
If the engine is being removed by a novice,
a helper should be available. Advice and aid
from someone more experienced would also
be helpful. There are many instances when
one person cannot simultaneously perform all
of the operations required when lifting the
engine out of the vehicle.
Plan the operation ahead of time. Arrange
for or obtain all of the tools and equipment
you’ll need prior to beginning the job. Some of
the equipment necessary to perform engine
removal and refitting safely and with relative
ease are (in addition to an engine hoist) a
heavy duty trolley jack, complete sets of
spanners and sockets as described in the
front of this manual, wooden blocks and
plenty of rags and cleaning solvent for
mopping up spilled oil, coolant and petrol. If
the hoist must be rented, make sure that you
arrange for it in advance and perform all of the
operations possible without it beforehand.
This will save you money and time.
Plan for the vehicle to be out of use for
quite a while. A machine workshop will be
required to perform some of the work which
the do-it-yourselfer can’t accomplish without
special equipment. These shops often have a
busy schedule, so it would be a good idea to
consult them before removing the engine in
order to accurately estimate the amount of
time required to rebuild or repair components
that may need work.
Always be extremely careful when removing
and refitting the engine. Serious injury can
result from careless actions. Plan ahead, take
your time and a job of this nature, although
major, can be accomplished successfully.
6 Engine- removal and refitting
3
Note:Read through the entire Section before
beginning this procedure. It is recommended
to remove the engine and transmission from
the top as a unit, then separate the engine
from the transmission on the workshop floor. If
the transmission is not being serviced, it is
possible to leave the transmission in the
vehicle and remove the engine from the top by
itself, by removing the crankshaft damper and
tilting up the front end of the engine for
clearance,but access to the upper
bellhousing bolts is only practical when the
rear transmission mount and driveshaft have
been removed and the transmission is angled
down with a trolley jack.
Removal
1Relieve the fuel system pressure (see
Chapter 4).
2Disconnect the battery negative cable.
Caution: If the stereo in your vehicle is
equipped with an anti-theft system, make
sure you have the correct activation code
before disconnecting the battery.
3Place protective covers on the wings and
cowl and remove the bonnet (see Chapter 11).
4Remove the battery and battery tray.
5Remove the air cleaner assembly (see
Chapter 4).
6Raise the vehicle and support it securely on
axle stands. Drain the cooling system and
engine oil and remove the drivebelts (see
Chapter 1).
7Clearly label, then disconnect all vacuum
lines, coolant and emissions hoses, wiring
harness connectors and earth straps.
Masking tape and/or a touch up paint
applicator work well for marking items (see
illustration). Take instant photos or sketch
the locations of components and brackets.
8Remove the cooling fan(s) and radiator (see
Chapter 3).
9Disconnect the heater hoses.
10Release the residual fuel pressure in the
tank by removing the petrol cap, then detach
the fuel lines connecting the engine to the
chassis (see Chapter 4). Plug or cap all open
fittings.
2B•4 Engine removal and overhaul procedures
4.6 A compression gauge with a threaded
fitting for the spark plug hole is preferred
over the type that requires hand pressure
to maintain the seal - be sure to block
open the throttle valve as far as possible
during the compression check!
6.7 Label both ends of each wire and hose
before disconnecting it
3261 Jaguar XJ6

11Disconnect the throttle linkage,
transmission linkage (and dipstick tube) and
speed control cable, if equipped, from the
engine (see Chapters 4 and 7).
12Refer to Part A of this Chapter and
remove the intake and exhaust manifolds.
13Unbolt the power steering pump (see
Chapter 10). Tie the pump aside without
disconnecting the hoses. Refer to Part A for
removal of the hydraulic pump (if equipped)
from the timing chain cover.
14On air-conditioned models, unbolt the
compressor and set it aside. Do not
disconnect the refrigerant hoses. Note:Wire
the compressor out of the way with a coat
hanger, don’t let the compressor hang on the
hoses.
15Refer to Part A of this Chapter and
remove the drivebelts, water pump pulley and
crankshaft pulley.
16Attach a lifting sling to the engine.
Position a hoist and connect the sling to it.
Take up the slack until there is slight tension
on the hoist.
17With a trolley jack and piece of wood
supporting the bottom of the transmission
sump, refer to Chapter 8 and remove the
driveshaft and rear transmission mount.
Warning: Do not place any part
of your body under the
engine/transmission when it’s
supported only by a hoist or
other lifting device.
18With the hoist taking the weight of the
engine, unbolt the engine mounts (see Part A
of this Chapter).
19Recheck to be sure nothing is still
connecting the engine or transmission to the
vehicle. Disconnect and label anything still
remaining.
20Slowly lift the engine/transmission out of
the vehicle (see illustration). It may be
necessary to pry the mounts away from the
frame brackets.21Move the engine away from the vehicle
and carefully lower the hoist until the
engine/transmission can be set on the floor.
Refer to Chapter 7 and remove the
transmission and converter. Refer to Part A of
this Chapter for removal of the flywheel. With
the flywheel removed, remove the four large
bolts and the transmission adapter plate from
the engine (see illustration).
22Refer to Part A of this Chapter for removal
of the rear main seal retainer plate from the
back of the engine, then lift the engine to a
position where it can be attached to a sturdy
engine stand.
Refitting
23Check the engine/transmission mounts. If
they’re worn or damaged, renew them.
24Attach the hoist and remove the engine
from the stand. Refer to Part A of this Chapter
and renew the rear main seal and retainer
plate, then reattach the transmission adapter
plate and refer to Chapter 7 for mounting the
converter and transmission.
25Carefully lower the engine into the vehicle
with the hoist. An assistant is helpful to guide
the engine clear of accessories in the engine
compartment as the engine is lowered into
place.
26Refit the engine mount bolts and tighten
them securely. Raise the back of the
transmission with the trolley jack and reattach
the transmission mount, driveshaft and shift
linkage.
27Refit the remaining components and
fasteners in the reverse order of removal.
28Add coolant, oil, power steering and
transmission fluids as needed (see Chapter 1).
29Run the engine and check for proper
operation and leaks. Shut off the engine and
recheck the fluid levels.
7 Engine rebuilding
alternatives
The do-it-yourselfer is faced with a number
of options when performing an engine
overhaul. The decision to renew the engine
block, piston/connecting rod assemblies and
crankshaft depends on a number of factors,
with the number one consideration being the
condition of the engine block. Other
considerations are cost, access to machine
workshop facilities, parts availability, time
required to complete the project and the
extent of prior mechanical experience on the
part of the do-it-yourselfer.
Some of the rebuilding alternatives include:
Individual parts- If the inspection
procedures reveal that the engine block and
most engine components are in reusable
condition, purchasing individual parts may be
the most economical alternative. The engine
block, cylinder head, crankshaft, and
piston/connecting rod assemblies should all
be inspected carefully. Even if the engine
block shows little wear, the cylinder bores
should be surface honed.
Short block- A short block consists of an
engine block with a crankshaft and
piston/connecting rod assemblies already
installed. All new bearings are incorporated
and all clearances will be correct. The existing
camshafts, valve train components, cylinder
head and external parts can be bolted to the
short block with little or no machine workshop
work necessary.
Long block- A long block consists of a
short block plus an oil pump, sump, cylinder
head, valve cover, camshaft and valve train
components, timing sprockets and chain or
gears and timing cover. All components are
installed with new bearings, seals and gaskets
Engine removal and overhaul procedures 2B•5
2B
3261 Jaguar XJ6 6.20 Lift the engine high enough to clear the vehicle, tilting it up
at the front to clear the front crossmember, then move it away
and lower the hoist
6.21 With the engine on the floor but still supported by the hoist,
remove the four large bolts (arrowed) and pull off the
transmission adapter plate

incorporated throughout. The refitting of
manifolds and external parts is all that’s
necessary. Engines in this rebuilt form are
available from Jaguar dealers, and some
independent rebuilders.
Give careful thought to which alternative is
best for you and discuss the situation with
local automotive machine shops, auto parts
dealers and experienced rebuilders before
ordering or purchasing replacement parts.
8 Engine overhaul-
dismantling sequence
1It’s much easier to dismantle and work on
the engine if it’s mounted on a portable
engine stand. A stand can often be rented
quite cheaply from an equipment rental yard.
Before the engine is mounted on a stand, the
driveplate and rear oil seal retainer should be
removed from the engine.
2If a stand isn’t available, it’s possible to
dismantle the engine with it blocked up on the
floor. Be extra careful not to tip or drop the
engine when working without a stand.
3If you’re going to obtain a rebuilt engine, all
external components must come off first, to
be transferred to the replacement engine, just
as they will if you’re doing a complete engine
overhaul yourself. These include:
Alternator and brackets
Emissions control components
Distributor, spark plug leads and spark
plugs
Thermostat and housing cover
Water pump
EFI components
Intake/exhaust manifolds
Oil filter
Engine mounts
Driveplate
Transmission adapter plate
Note:When removing the external
components from the engine, pay close
attention to details that may be helpful or
important during refitting. Note the installed
position of gaskets, seals, spacers, pins,
brackets, washers, bolts and other small items.
4If you’re obtaining a short block, which
consists of the engine block, crankshaft,
pistons and connecting rods all assembled,
then the cylinder head, sump and oil pump will
have to be removed as well from your engine
so that your short-block can be turned in to
the rebuilder as a core. See Engine rebuilding
alternativesfor additional information
regarding the different possibilities to be
considered.
5If you’re planning a complete overhaul, the
engine must be dismantled and the internal
components removed in the following order:
Intake and exhaust manifolds
Valve cover
Upper timing chain and camshaft
sprocketsCamshafts
Timing chain cover
Cylinder head
Sump
Oil pump
Piston/connecting rod assemblies
Crankshaft rear oil seal retainer
Crankshaft and main bearings
6Before beginning the dismantling and
overhaul procedures, make sure the following
items are available. Also, refer to Section 21
for a list of tools and materials needed for
engine reassembly.
Common hand tools
Small cardboard boxes or plastic bags for
storing parts
Gasket scraper
Ridge reamer
Micrometers
Telescoping gauges
Dial indicator set
Valve spring compressor
Cylinder surfacing hone
Piston ring groove-cleaning tool
Electric drill motor
Tap and die set
Wire brushes
Oil gallery brushes
Cleaning solvent
Special Jaguar tools
Engine lifting brackets (18G 1465)
Timing damper simulator (18E 1436)
Camshaft TDC tool (18G 1433)
9 Cylinder head- dismantling
2
Note: New and rebuilt cylinder heads are
available from Jaguar and some independent
rebuilders. Due to the fact that some
specialised tools are necessary for the
dismantling and inspection procedures, and
replacement parts may not be readily
available, it may be more practical and
economical for the home mechanic to
purchase a replacement cylinder head rather
than taking the time to dismantle, inspect and
recondition the original.1Cylinder head dismantling involves removal
of the intake and exhaust valves and related
components. It’s assumed that the lifters and
camshafts have already been removed (see
Part A as needed).
2Before the valves are removed, arrange to
label and store them, along with their related
components, so they can be kept separate
and reinstalled in the same valve guides they
are removed from (see illustration).
3Compress the springs on the first valve with
a spring compressor and remove the keepers
(see illustration). Carefully release the valve
spring compressor and remove the retainer,
the spring and the spring seat (if used). Note:
If your spring compressor does not have an
end (such as the one shown) with cut-outs on
the side, an adapter is available to use with a
standard spring compressor.
Caution: Be very careful not to nick or
otherwise damage the lifter bores when
compressing the valve springs.
4Pull the valve out of the cylinder head, then
remove the oil seal from the guide. If the valve
binds in the guide (won’t pull through), push it
back into the cylinder head and deburr the
area around the keeper groove with a fine file
or whetstone.
5Repeat the procedure for the remaining
valves. Remember to keep all the parts for
each valve together so they can be reinstalled
in the same locations.
6Once the valves and related components
have been removed and stored in an
organised manner, the cylinder head should
be thoroughly cleaned and inspected. If a
complete engine overhaul is being done,
finish the engine dismantling procedures
before beginning the cylinder head cleaning
and inspection process.
10 Cylinder head-
cleaning and inspection
2
1Thorough cleaning of the cylinder head(s)
and related valve train components, followed
by a detailed inspection, will enable you to
decide how much valve service work must be
2B•6 Engine removal and overhaul procedures
9.2 A small plastic bag, with an appropriate
label, can be used to store the valve train
components so they can be kept together
and reinstalled in the correct guide
3261 Jaguar XJ6
9.3 Compress the spring until the keepers
can be removed with a small magnetic
screwdriver or needle-nose pliers - use a
valve spring compressor with an adapter
(arrowed) to remove the keepers

done during the engine overhaul. Note:If the
engine was severely overheated, the cylinder
head is probably warped (see paragraph 12).
Cleaning
2Scrape all traces of old gasket material and
sealing compound off the cylinder head
gasket, intake manifold and exhaust manifold
sealing surfaces. Be very careful not to gouge
the cylinder head. Special gasket-removal
solvents that soften gaskets and make
removal much easier are available at car
accessory outlets.
3Remove all built up scale from the coolant
passages.
4Run a stiff wire brush through the various
holes to remove deposits that may have
formed in them. If there are heavy deposits in
the water passages, the bare head should be
professionally cleaned at a machine
workshop.
5Run an appropriate-size tap into each of the
threaded holes to remove corrosion and
any thread sealant that may be present. If
compressed air is available, use it to clear the
holes of debris produced by this operation.
Warning: Wear eye protection
when using compressed air!
6Clean the exhaust and intake manifold stud
threads with a wire brush.
7Clean the cylinder head with solvent and dry
it thoroughly. Compressed air will speed the
drying process and ensure that all holes and
recessed areas are clean. Note:Decarbonising
chemicals are available and may prove very
useful when cleaning cylinder heads and valve
train components. They are very caustic and
should be used with caution. Be sure to follow
the instructions on the container.
8Clean the lifters with solvent and dry themthoroughly. Compressed air will speed the
drying process and can be used to clean out
the oil passages. Don’t mix them up during
cleaning - keep them in a box with numbered
compartments.
9Clean all the valve springs, spring seats,
keepers and retainers with solvent and dry
them thoroughly. Work on the components
from one valve at a time to avoid mixing up
the parts.
10Scrape off any heavy deposits that may
have formed on the valves, then use a
motorised wire brush to remove deposits from
the valve heads and stems. Again, make sure
that the valves don’t get mixed up.
Inspection
Note:Be sure to perform all of the following
inspection procedures before concluding that
machine workshop work is required. Make a
list of the items that need attention. The
inspection procedures for the lifters and
camshafts, can be found in Part A.
Cylinder head
11Inspect the cylinder head very carefully for
cracks, evidence of coolant leakage and other
damage. If cracks are found, check with an
automotive machine workshop concerning
repair. If repair isn’t possible, a new cylinder
head should be obtained.
12A common problem on aluminium engines
is erosion of the cylinder head or engine block
coolant passages due to improper sealing.
Using a new cylinder head gasket held
against the cylinder head, trace the bolt holes
and coolant passage outlines in pencil on the
cylinder head. Use the gasket to trace the
same on the top of the engine block (see
illustration). If the top of the engine block has
eroded outsideof the pattern around thewater passages or cylinder head bolt holes,
the engine block must be renewed; the
manufacturer doesn’t recommend resurfacing
it. If the cylinder head has eroded outside of
the water passage holes but the erosion is
away fromthe combustion chamber, the
eroded area can be built up with metal-
impregnated epoxy and machined flat again.
13Using a straightedge and feeler gauge,
check the cylinder head gasket mating
surface (on the engine block and cylinder
head) for warpage (see illustration). If the
warpage exceeds the limit found in this
Chapter’s Specifications, it can be resurfaced
at an automotive machine workshop, but no
more then 0.010-inch of material should be
removed. If the cylinder head had been
overheated, take it to the machinist for
inspection before proceeding further. It’s
possible that the overheating could have
annealed (softened) the aluminium of the
cylinder head, making it unsuitable for
machine work. In this case, a new cylinder
head is required.
Note 1:To check if a cylinder head has been
machined previously, measure the height
between the cylinder head gasket surface and
the valve cover mounting surface with a large
micrometer or vernier caliper and compare
with Specifications.
Note 2:Jaguar aluminium cylinder heads
require precision machine work. It is best to
find a machine workshop that has
considerable experience in servicing Jaguar
cylinder heads.
14Examine the valve seats in each of the
combustion chambers. If they’re pitted,
cracked or burned, the cylinder head will
require valve service that’s beyond the scope
of the home mechanic.
Engine removal and overhaul procedures 2B•7
2B
3261 Jaguar XJ6 10.12 Place the new head gasket on the engine block, and trace
around the water passages and bolt holes - make sure there is no
erosion of the aluminium beyond these lines
10.13 Check the cylinder head and engine block gasket surfaces
for warpage by trying to slip a feeler gauge under a precision
straightedge (see the Specifications for the maximum warpage
allowed and use a feeler gauge of that thickness) - check both the
cylinder head and engine block (shown)

15Check the valve stem-to-guide clearance
with a small hole gauge and micrometer, or a
small dial bore gauge (see illustration). Also,
check the valve stem deflection with a dial
indicator attached securely to the cylinder
head. The valve must be in the guide and
approximately 1/16-inch off the seat. The total
valve stem movement indicated by the gauge
needle must be noted, then divided by two to
obtain the actual clearance value. If it exceeds
the stem-to-guide clearance limit found in this
Chapter’s Specifications, the valve guides
should be renewed. After this is done, if
there’s still some doubt regarding the
condition of the valve guides they should be
checked by an automotive machine workshop
(the cost should be minimal).
Valves
16Carefully inspect each valve face for
uneven wear, deformation, cracks, pits and
burned areas. Check the valve stem for
scuffing and galling and the neck for cracks.
Rotate the valve and check for any obvious
indication that it’s bent. Look for pits and
excessive wear on the end of the stem. The
presence of any of these conditions indicates
the need for valve service by an automotive
machine workshop.
17Measure the margin width on each valve
(see illustration). Any valve with a margin
narrower than 1/32-inch will have to be
replaced with a new valve.
Valve components
18Check each valve spring for wear (on the
ends) and pits. Measure the free length and
compare it to this Chapter’s Specifications
(see illustration). Any springs that are shorter
than specified have sagged and should not be
re-used. The tension of all springs should be
pressure checked with a special fixture before
deciding that they’re suitable for use in a
rebuilt engine (take the springs to an
automotive machine workshop for this check).
Note:If any valve springs are found broken on
1988 or 1989 engines, all springs should be
replaced with the improved springs used in
1990 (after VIN 9EPCLA120245) and later
engines. They are identified with a white
stripe. If your engine has springs with white-
stripes, they have already been replaced, and
only broken ones need be replaced.
19Stand each spring on a flat surface and
check it for squareness (see illustration). If
any of the springs are distorted or sagged,
renew all of the springs.
20Check the spring retainers and keepers
for obvious wear and cracks. Any
questionable parts should be renewed, as
extensive damage will occur if they fail during
engine operation.
21If the inspection process indicates that the
valve components are in generally poor
condition and worn beyond the limits specified,
which is usually the case in an engine that’s
being overhauled, reassemble the valves in the
cylinder head and refer to Section 11 for valve
servicing recommendations.
11 Valves- servicing
5
1Because of the complex nature of the job
and the special tools and equipment needed,
servicing of the valves, the valve seats and the
valve guides, commonly known as a valve job,
should be done by a professional.
2The home mechanic can remove and
dismantle the cylinder head(s), do the initial
cleaning and inspection, then reassemble and
deliver them to a dealer service department or
an automotive machine workshop for the
actual service work. Doing the inspection will
enable you to see what condition the cylinder
head(s) and valvetrain components are in and
will ensure that you know what work and new
parts are required when dealing with an
automotive machine workshop.
3The dealer service department, or
automotive machine workshop, will remove
the valves and springs, will recondition or
renew the valves and valve seats, recondition
the valve guides, check and renew the valve
springs, spring retainers and keepers (as
necessary), replace the valve seals with new
ones, reassemble the valve components and
make sure the installed spring height is
correct. The cylinder head gasket surface will
also be resurfaced if it’s warped.
4After the valve job has been performed by a
professional, the cylinder head(s) will be in like
new condition. When the cylinder heads are
returned, be sure to clean them again before
refitting on the engine to remove any metal
particles and abrasive grit that may still be
present from the valve service or cylinder
head resurfacing operations. Use compressed
air, if available, to blow out all the oil holes and
passages.
12 Cylinder head- reassembly
2
1Regardless of whether or not the cylinder
head was sent to an automotive machine
workshop for valve servicing, make sure it’s
clean before beginning reassembly. Renew
the cylinder head rear plate gasket any time
that the engine is overhauled or the cylinder
head is reconditioned (see Part A of this
Chapter for renewal procedure).
2If the cylinder head was sent out for valve
servicing, the valves and related components
will already be in place. Begin the reassembly
procedure with paragraph 8.
3Refit new seals on each of the valve guides.
Gently push each valve seal into place until
it’s seated on the guide.
Caution: Don’t hammer on the valve seals
once they’re seated or you may damage
them. Don’t twist or cock the seals during
refitting or they won’t seat properly on the
valve stems.
2B•8 Engine removal and overhaul procedures
10.15 Use a small dial bore gauge to
determine the inside diameter of the valve
guides - subtract the valve stem diameter
to determine the stem-to-guide clearance10.17 The margin width on each valve
must be as specified (if no margin exists,
the valve cannot be re-used)
10.18 Measure the free length of each
valve spring with a dial or vernier caliper10.19 Check each valve spring for
squareness
3261 Jaguar XJ6

4Beginning at one end of the cylinder head,
lubricate and refit the first valve. Apply moly-
base grease or clean engine oil to the valve
stem.
5Place the spring seat or shim(s) over the
valve guide and set the valve spring and
retainer in place.
6Compress the springs with a valve spring
compressor and carefully refit the keepers in
the upper groove, then slowly release the
compressor and make sure the keepers seat
properly. Apply a small dab of grease to each
keeper to hold it in place if necessary (see
Haynes Hint).
7Repeat the procedure for the remaining
valves. Be sure to return the components to
their original locations - don’t mix them up!
13 Pistons/connecting rods-
removal
4
Note :Prior to removing the piston/connecting
rod assemblies, remove the cylinder head(s),
the sump and the oil pump transfer tubes by
referring to Chapter 2A.
1Use your fingernail to feel if a ridge has
formed at the upper limit of ring travel (about
1/4-inch down from the top of each cylinder).
If carbon deposits or cylinder wear have
produced ridges, they must be completely
removed with a special tool (see illustration).
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
provided with the tool. Failure to remove the
ridges before attempting to remove the
piston/connecting rod assemblies may result
in piston damage.
2After the cylinder ridges have been
removed, turn the engine upside-down so the
crankshaft is facing up. Remove the screws
and the front and rear baffle plates from the
bottom of the engine block (see illustration).
3Before the connecting rods are removed,
check the endplay with a feeler gauge. Slide
the blade between the first connecting rod
and the crankshaft throw until the play is
removed (see illustration). The endplay is
equal to the thickness of the feeler gauge(s). If
the endplay exceeds the specified service
limit, new connecting rods will be required. Ifnew rods (or a new crankshaft) are installed,
the endplay may fall under the service limit (if
it does, the rods will have to be machined to
restore it - consult an automotive machine
workshop for advice if necessary). Repeat the
procedure for the remaining connecting rods.
4Check the connecting rods and caps for
identification marks. If they aren’t plainly
marked, use a small centre punch to make the
appropriate number of indentations on each rod
and cap (1, 2, 3, etc, depending on the cylinder
they’re associated with) (see illustration).
5Loosen each of the connecting rod cap nuts
1/2-turn at a time until they can be removed by
hand. Remove the number one connecting rod
cap and bearing insert. Don’t drop the bearing
insert out of the cap. Note:These engines use
special connecting rod and main bearing cap
bolts that are designed to be used one time
only. They can be used during Plastigage
checks, but must be replaced with new bolts
when the engine is finally reassembled.
6Slip a short length of plastic or rubber hose
over each connecting rod cap bolt to protect
the crankshaft journal and cylinder wall as the
piston is removed (see illustration).
7Remove the bearing insert and push the
connecting rod/piston assembly out through
the top of the engine. Use a wooden hammer
handle to push on the upper bearing surface
in the connecting rod. If resistance is felt,
double-check to make sure that all of the
ridge was removed from the cylinder.
Engine removal and overhaul procedures 2B•9
2B
13.2 Remove the screws (arrowed) and
remove the front and rear baffle plates13.3 Check the connecting rod side
clearance with a feeler gauge as shown
13.4 The connecting rods and caps should
be marked by cylinder number - if they
aren’t, mark them with a centre punch to
avoid confusion during reassembly13.6 To prevent damage to the crankshaft
journals and cylinder walls, slip sections of
hose over the connecting rod bolts before
removing the pistons
3261 Jaguar XJ6 13.1 A ridge reamer is required to remove
the ridge from the top of each cylinder -
do this before removing the pistons!
The keepers are easier to fit if a small
amount of grease is applied to keep
them in place