1954 Jaguar XK

OTS Convertible

6 - Cyl.

Manual

674506

Clear

Gasoline

A 1954 Jaguar XK120 with a frame off restoration. As with many/most/all? cars there is “A Story”. This car was restored by Don Westbrook, of D&E Service in Modesto, CA. D&E was an independent Sports Car repair shop from the mid 1950s through the 1990’s’ specializing in Jaguars. Don started on this car in the 1970’s and finished it at his home shop after retiring. The work was completed in the late 1990’s and the engine run but never driven. Don died in July 2008, and a couple of months ago his family asked for our help in bringing “Don’s Jag” back to life. We flushed the fuel system, oiled the cylinders, rebuilt the SU fuel pump, installed a battery, and Vroommm! Then we rebuilt the rear wheel cylinders, bled the brakes, and found the clutch stuck to the flywheel. Two or three pushes with it in gear, and the clutch depressed, and it was ready for a drive. It runs beautifully, does not overheat or make any strange noises, and has great oil pressure. The clutch and steering are light and smooth, the synchros work well, the transmission and rear axle are quiet and do not leak. Receipts for the nearly all the parts that went into the car, including a 1988 receipt for the Bartlett interior, and three for the beautiful chrome work are included. Five chrome wire wheels with Avon Turbospeed tyres, the wiring harness, interior, as well as the engine, drivetrain, brakes, etc. are new or rebuilt with quality parts. A new Hartzcloth top is still in the box. The top bows are installed but need paint, and the side curtains should be refurbished. The original number plate matches the chassis, body and cylinder head, but I have not located a number on the block. The chassis number is on the California title in Mr. Westbrooks name, so there are no DMV or export paperwork issues. We are nearly certain every mechanical detail was properly rebuilt, but the following is: “The Rest of the Story”. Although the car is very attractive, and was a thorough frame off restoration; when you look closely you will see that the body shop that straightened and painted the car did not do their part of this job to a very high standard. There are several faults with the body work, and there is some rust that was not repaired properly. This Jaguar is a very nice, even showy, driver, but is not a high line show car. However, at the price, it is a good buy for someone who can enjoy driving the car for many years without mechanical problems, and then maybe redo the body work if it begins to bother them. Please look at the photographs carefully, so you know what you are buying. If it is at all possible inspect the car in Sebastopol, CA before purchasing it, but if you want more details, I’ll be happy to look over and under the car with a cell phone and provide truthful answers to any questions you may have. We can also email more images on request.