1956 Jaguar XK140 - Repair Manuals Blog

The Jaguar XK140 is a sports automobile produced between 1954 and 1957 as the XK120’s replacement. The upgrades included more interior room, upgraded brakes, rack, pinion steering, extended suspension travel, and telescopic shock absorbers instead of the earlier lever arm design. The sports automobile embodies three characteristics – aesthetic attractiveness, innovative engineering, and excellent performance – and symbolizes youth, freedom, and vigor. When a carmaker gets the formula exactly right, the result is a vehicle that preys on our emotions, lingers in our minds, and consumes us with an unease that can only be relieved by sliding into the driver’s seat. William Lyons got it perfect with this magnificent XK 140. Here, we will focus on the 1956 Jaguar XK140.

The Swallow Sidecar Company was founded in 1922, and the SS Jaguar moniker first appeared on a 2.5-liter saloon in 1935. In 1945, the Jaguar brand was applied to the whole corporation. The early 1950s XK-120 was the ideal post-war sports vehicle, at least in the eyes of the British—simple, sufficient in power, and wonderfully gorgeous. The British were not alone in this regard. Almost immediately after its debut at the Earls Court Motor Show, the vehicle became one of the most sought-after cars in the world.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The highest speed of a factory XK-140 SE is 120–125 mph (193–201 km/h). In June 1955, Road & Track’s XK-140 MC test produced a top two-way average of 120.3 mph (193.6 km/h). The fastest one-way speed was 121.1 mph (194.9 km/h). Sports Cars Illustrated tested the identical model in August 1957, and the quickest two-way average was 121 mph (195 km/h). Their highest one-way speed was 124 miles per hour (200 kilometers per hour). The findings of Karl Ludvigsen’s test, reported in Sports Car World in July 1957, were identical to those of the SCI test.

Acceleration times from 0 to 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour) were 8.4 seconds, 9.1 seconds, and 9.1 seconds, respectively. Only the R&T test attempted 0–100 mph (161 km/h) in 26.5 seconds. Standing 1/4 mile (400 m) timings were 16.6 seconds (about 82 mph (132 km/h)) and 16.9 seconds (approximately 86 mph (138 km/h).

Design, Comfort, and Quality

Taller drivers will appreciate the extra legroom by shifting the engine, firewall, and dash forward 3 inches (76 mm). The Fixed Head Coupe had two 6-volt batteries in each front wing, whilst Drop Heads and the Open Two Seater had a single 12-volt battery in the passenger side front wing.

The 1956 Jaguar XK140 had retractable canvas and plastic side curtains, as well as light-alloy Barchetta-style doors and a tonneau cover. The door tops and scuttle panel were reduced by two inches (50mm) compared to the XK120, allowing for a more current steering wheel location. The angle of the front face of the doors (A-Post) was modified from 45 degrees to 90 degrees. The windshield was still detachable.

The 1956 Jaguar XK140 engine was designed using main steel bearings rather than cast-iron bearings, which aided in dealing with the increase in horsepower. Closer gear ratios were supplied to the gearbox, which provided major advantages to the driver. An eight-blade fan and a bigger radiator were installed to keep the engine cool.

Specification

Height: 53.5 in
Length: 176 in
Width: 64.5 in
Curb weight: 3,248 lbs

Engine type: 4-stroke spark-ignition

Fuel Capacity / Gas Tank Size: 18 gal

C/D TEST RESULTS:

Zero to 100 mph: 23.8 sec
Zero to 60 mph: 8 sec

1956 Jaguar XK140 Factory Service Manual

The 1956 Jaguar XK140 service manuals are extensive and cover every area of the vehicle’s functioning. In addition to the car, every Jaguar comes with a service manual. The following issues are covered in great detail in the service manuals:

Introduction
Preparation
Service specifications
Engine control system
Fuel
Emission control
Engine mechanical
Exhaust
Lubrication
Ignition
Tire and wheel
Differential
Brake
Parking brake
Steering column
Seat belt
Lighting
Wiper and washer
Wiring
Communication system
Windshield/Windowglass/Mirror
Instrument panel/Meter
Seat
Engine hood/door
Exterior/Interior trim
Vehicle control system
Cruise control
Maintenance

Jaguar auto repair manuals are intended for professionals and dealers who perform maintenance and repairs on the brand’s cars. The owner may guarantee that any car maintenance or repairs are done properly and exactly every time with these service manuals.

1956 Jaguar XK140 — Owner’s Manual

Buyers of a 1956 Jaguar XK140 received a Jaguar Owners Manual that included all the vehicle’s important information for future use and maintenance.

For safety and security
Instrument cluster
Operation of each component
Driving
Interior Features
Maintenance and care
When trouble arises
Vehicle specifications
For owners

The Jaguar XK140 owner’s manual, written with automotive enthusiasts in mind, will educate them when and how to use the various features and functions available in their vehicles, among other things.