Jaguar Mk2

[AJAX50]

I've just bought a 3.4 Mk2 with which I intend to do some (not too demanding) continental rallies. I would welcome any suggestions on improvements that would be worth carrying out, known weak points etc.
The engine is in first class condition, lightened and balanced, it has a straight port head, 2" carbs, higher lift and overlap cams. Transmission is jag box (not Moss)and overdrive with a limited slip, but, a 3.30 ratio diff, any thoughts on what ratio might be better? It's got Koni's stiffer springs and anti-roll bar. It handles very well with what appears to be a standard ride height on standard bolt on steel rims rims and 185 Vredestein tyres. I've not used them before before always used Avons on the Healey, the Vredesteins are really impressive on the Jag. Would it be worth going to 6" rims and 205/70 tyres? Do XJ6 steel rims fit?
Any ideas and suggestions welcome.

[lowdrag]

The choice of rear axle ratio is a matter of preference really. Your 3.31 will give 3,000 rpm at about 70mph and 4,000 at 100mph and is what I have in the D and E type. Going to a 3.07 will give longer legs but if you want to do that you are better off going for the american 2.88 diff ratio but this will blunt acceleration quite a lot. Vredestein tyres are a good choice since unlike other makes do not go hard after a track day and retain their soft compound and good road holding. There is a racing series sponsored by them and people I know swear by them. I am trying Blockley's on the D type shortly but those are 16" crossplies, not radials. As for wheels you'll need to be careful about the wheel arches if you go for wider tyres and might need to flare them to avoid fouling. I'd leave them well alone and stick with 185/15 - they are up to the job. The synchro box was a standard fitment later on and is a much easier box to use than the old Moss - I have both and while I love the skill needed to drive the E type swiftly the Jaguar box is a great modification (if it wasn't fitted originally depending on the age of the Mk 2). The engine seems well sorted and you can get into serious money if you want to get more power - I did this with the D type using D type cams, Venolia pistons and other lightened parts which severely lightened my wallet. One thing you can do to improve road holding and feel is to change the suspension bushes for neoprene and solid mount the rack to firm everything up. Best of luck with your new acquisition!

[Jderh]

I can't really answer any of you're questions, but I would just like to say, excellent choice of car.