Jaguar XJ6 3.4ltr

[Andy Farmer]

I'm new to this forum, and new to the world of old Jaguars but I bought a 1976 XJ6 3.4ltr last month and am having some starting issues. It looks like the battery is the original so my first step is to put a new one in.

I've jump started the car this morning and the gauges show it's charging but when I turn off the engine and attempt a re-start, all I hear is a clicking sound and the engine won't start.

Is that clicking noise the fact the battery is in poor condition or should I be looking at something else causes that noise ?

[Hawk Classics]

If you've jump started it and it shows a healthy charge then the alternator etc. are all working well; the clicking sound is almost certainly going to be the low battery.

Your battery might not be able to hold a charge if it is fairly old, however it could simply be that it needs a good charge.  Have you tried leaving the battery on a reconditioner for a few days, it might revive it and it's a cheaper option than a new battery in the first instance?

[Wrinkly]

1 hour ago, Andy Farmer said:

I'm new to this forum, and new to the world of old Jaguars but I bought a 1976 XJ6 3.4ltr last month and am having some starting issues. It looks like the battery is the original so my first step is to put a new one in.

I've jump started the car this morning and the gauges show it's charging but when I turn off the engine and attempt a re-start, all I hear is a clicking sound and the engine won't start.

Is that clicking noise the fact the battery is in poor condition or should I be looking at something else causes that noise ?

Andy

Very likely the battery. Once replaced or reconditioned (if it is possible to) things will likely be OK. 

Regards, John

[Andy Farmer]

Thanks chaps, I've purchased a new battery so will see how I get on as a first step of the elimination process.

[Andy Farmer]

New battery fitted and she starts on the button, charges well and after a few days sat idle, starts perfectly again.

Moving on, I was wondering if anyone can help me source the hose in the photo ? Part number or hose name etc. Mine has complete disintegrated and is probably not helping the engine breath. (photo is not my actual engine)....

 

[Andy Farmer]

Flat battery again this morning yet it was fine on Saturday. Engine started perfectly on Saturday.

Any ideas ?