I have an 83 xj6. When i take off it is fine until about 5mph it starts to shimmy until about 8mph. If I get on it a little it sounds like the transmission mount is banging. I changed out the mount and spring and bushing. this did not rid the problem. I just noticed that if I push down on the back shocks as if to test the shocks the back wheel starts to vibrate. I don't know much about the suspensions on these things or even if this is the problem. Anyone have any ideas?

83 xj6

Submitted by dthompson@gbc.ca on Tue, 11/26/2002 - 16:11

Doesn't sound good at all. If the rear wheels "shake" with only your weight on the back end you are in trouble!

Check all the rear suspension pick up points in addition to the bearings, u-joints etc. Your car is now 20 years old, I wouldn't be surprised to find that the rubber suspension mounts have "perished" (as they say in England). You may find that your entire rear end is flapping in the breeze. Very dangerous. If you don't feel qualified to do it yourself please get the car to a quality Jaguar shop who can inspect for you.

Daniel
2002 X-type
1968 E-type
1958 MkIX
1952 XK120

Submitted by SC20-30420CJ on Mon, 11/25/2002 - 21:11

Hi Eric,
It's hard to pinpoint the problem without actually seeing the car but I'd check for bad wheel bearings to start off, then again, one of the rear prop shaft u-joints may be going bad on you. Why don't you jack up the car and give everything a good look over. Try to move the rear wheels in and out and look for play in any of the joints.
John Testrake
President, Jaguar Association of Greater St. Louis