2012-07-10 06:56:48 | pauls writes:

Ebay item 7/10/12
cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Corvette-TPI-Powered-85-Jaguar-XJS-Conversion-Done-Right ...
Opening bid $4,000 reserve not met, no bids 6 days left in auction. Buy it now price $5,800.

Sellers description:
With this conversion you get the best of both worlds. A great looking and handling road car, with the dependability of the Chevy power train

The drive train is as follows:
The engine is an L98 as used in the 89 Corvette. It is Tuned Port Injected and other than the typical external upgrades is stock. The 4 bolt main short block is a factory new one with about 5K on it. The 58cc aluminum Chevy heads are also new with 5K run time. By losing the V-12 Jag engine I gained dependability, more power, better mileage and an engine that parts are cheaper for, plus easier to work on. Because the engine package is 300 pounds lighter than the V-12 I fitted XJ6 springs to the front end.

The transmission is a 700R4 and it now has the good low gear ratios and the overdrive.

The transmission driving gear is matched for a correct speedometer reading.

The 85 Jag only came with a non OD 3 speed transmission BTW.

The drive shaft has been balanced.

The rear is the stock Jaguar independent posi traction 2.88.

The Tachometer has been recalibrated for the V8.

Engine cooling is handled by a custom radiator that fits the Jaguar chassis perfectly. The larger electric fan (Camero) is controlled by a Delta controller that controls the fan speed to only what is needed. The smaller fan is controlled by the GM computer on a call for A/C.

Engine management is done by a totally dedicated GM electrical system, which includes its own fuses and wiring. The Jaguar climate control works with the GM compressor.

The seats and headliner were done recently by AutoMat.

I have saved all my receipts and will include my info on the TPI / Jag for your future reference. Bottom line is that you end up with the quality ride, looks, and handling of the Jaguar but without the problems and cost of the V-12.

Now for the minor issues the car has, mind you it recently passed the 2012 NYS inspection. The power antenna sometimes may go down when you hit a bump, drive a bit more and it is back up. My guess it needs a new relay. Fuel gauge shows ½ full when topped off, no doubt needs a new sender float. Dash has cracks in top plastic. Doors will not lock, both power locks move with key yet the doors can be opened. Door linkage? The paint is blistering at the edges of some of the moldings. If this sounds like a lot of problems to you, please don't bid. Remember this can be driven daily while you take your time and work at correcting these minor things.

This car runs like it was a factory build but for you thinkers here is another thought. The Jag front X-Member with power rack, independent posi-rear, and the drive train would be all you need for any special build.