Jaguar World's technical advice service
Q I live in Sweden and am the proud owner of a 1991 XJS Convertible imported from the US. I intend to recondition the power steering rack assembly with new seals, I also have a used steering rack removed from a 1994 XJS Convertible. My question is: will the later rack fit my car? If not, what is the difference? Lars-Göran Dungelid
AAs mentioned in last month‘s ‘modifying’ feature, when replacing an XJS steering rack, it is usually a good policy to employ the latest variant possible. Over the 21-year production life of the car, the gearing was progressively altered to lessen the number of turns ‘lock to lock’ and the internal torsion bar stiffness increased to provide enhanced feedback and feel. As to interchangeability, absolutely any rack will fit any model, subject to the following considerations: The three rackbody mounting points are a constant feature, we recommend the use of road grade polyurethane bushes (such as ‘Superflex’) to further enhance steering feel and longevity. The first model year (1975) was blessed with a longer pinion assembly, requiring the use of a matched shorter lower steering column. Around 1991, the six-cylinder style ‘reversed pinion’ was standardised across the entire range – the hydraulic connections facing towards the front of the car and thus necessitating revised pattern high and low-pressure hoses. 1981 saw the introduction of metric thread trackrod ends – simply retain the type relevant to your intended rack.
In your specific case, the 1994 aluminium body ZF rack should bolt on to your car with no complications, assuming the steel unit fitted to your car is of late enough production to feature the forward-facing unions. If not, the later pattern hoses will need to be obtained.
Seal kits and Superflex bushes are available from ‘all good specialists’ – be sure to specify exactly which vintage of rack you require the seals for.
Popping Tailgate
Q My Mytailgate window has developed an intermittent fault whereupon it pops open when the car is unlocked. When I attempt to close the rear window the lock chatters then finally latches. The window will then remain closed until the car is
