Jaguar XJS Barn Find! | Classic Obsession | Episode 5

Gary travels back to the High Peaks in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside to rescue a legendary Jaguar XJS V12 5.3 that's been sleeping in a barn for twenty years. Revisiting old friends, he reminisces about the car's history before bring it home to begin restoring it back to life.

[@RAMROD4708]

Excellent channel, and I really appreciate these fine videos. I have recently acquired a 1989 Jaguar XJ-S, V-12 Coupe. I am still learning about her and she's much different from the 1953 Jaguar XK-120 Drop-Heard Coupe I owned in the late sixties. The XJ-S was described as a "Nice, Daily Driver" by my mechanic but, being an experienced, vintage car owner, I know there are going to be some surprises in store for me in the future. Thank you for the great videos and, please, keep them coming, especially the ones about my new Jaguar, there's a lot that I've yet to learn about her.

[@simonread732]

Cars of this era have just got soul.

[@malcolmcowan9554]

My boss is a car collector. He had one the same color and spec as your friends xjs.. he sold it last week . What a stunning driving machine it was.. I'm 44 year old car mechanic... I was impressed how refined it is.. no modern car mechanic could not point out why it was pulling to the left.. I found the fault.. it was the wheel bearing out of adjustment I adjusted tightening to spec. Old school classic car mechanic like my self.. aren't around much anymore... To behonest iam quite shocked... for a modern machine it had old wheel bearing technology. Stunning cars the xjs got me hooked lol

[@Theoriginalbigbrillo]

No one Bosses Me 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭 I'm my own Boss , BOSS 🤔

[@performancedownunder5773]

At 71 The Corniche and XJS are dream cars I never expect to own so thank you for taking me and so many others for sharing your journey with them. A fascinating, informative and thoroughly enjoyable ride. Thank you. Vin Heffernan, Perth, West Australia.🙃🙃🙃

[@rogerpritchard]

My dad's beautiful XJ-S HE has been sleeping in a barn in East Sussex for a few years. Waiting for me to get my act together. I will remember these videos for future reference. Thankyou Gary.

[@hoedemakerbart]

Underrated car. V12 is the best very smooth running. Power was not impressive but its a great cruiser

[@simonblunden2151]

I don’t know how I ended up on this channel, but I’m hooked! Love the content and vibe of these videos. Some beautiful vehicles and blown away by your knowledge and skill with these restorations

[@MOTLUFC]

My dad had an f plate v12 convertible in the same colour from new. Was the last xjs he owned he had 6. This video brought back a lot of fond memories!😊

[@wernerdanler2742]

Really, good honest mechanics are harder to find than hens teeth. That is one good looking Jag.😊😊

[@jakedonnely4094]

Beautiful car

[@Ste2023]

that XJS is one my all time favourite designs ...

[@crisholmurb007]

The Corniche and the XJS really look lovely together!

[@martinogold]

I was thinking the same thing 🤔👍

[@hoedemakerbart]

The back end reminds me of those 17th century war ships 😅

[@joelcafeolai6201]

I used to have the exact same XJS , same colour , F reg . Used to love this car , was fabulous to drive . then upgraded to XK8 , and now driving an XK Portfolio .

[@ianplayer3329]

I had a 4litre facelift, lovely old cars ❤

[@rohanchapman4159]

Sweet Looking Car, Hey Big Fan of your Brother, nice to find you on the web too. will look at some of your back vids

[@NewtonInDaHouseYo]

… what an effortlessly cool car !

[@wolfganghobelsberger6720]

A real great channel. Meanwhile addicted to it. Unbelieveable what some people hide in their barns.

[@philiphall4180]

Great quality videos to rival most TV programs. Thanks for your time and effort Gary .

[@ianplayer3329]

Great colour, still a great looking car 😍

[@colinhoward74]

Having had a few xjs's in the past , hearing the starter whirl the beast into life , its a distinctive sound on a Jag V12 , it brings back memories and reminds you why you bought them , there was a phrase quoted by those in the know in South Africa of who xjs and to a lesser degree , the Daimler Double Six owners , they said , once you have had one , you had the desease ! You look back now and they were proberably right , because , whenever one pops up on the market , we proberably all go and look at it , think about buying it and then tell the salesman , I know I shouldn't .... if the salesman has had one , he undestands all too well

[@45green1]

Love your channel Gary, just discovered it these last few days and am devouring the content, always something interesting to see

[@ianmedium]

Oh and for me, hands down this is the best colour combination of any XJS!

[@richardwoodward6702]

Quality viewing, I’m hooked, this is what a car program should be, entertaining, informative and useful, Amazon, BBC and any other program makers please take note

[@dabstheleo1967]

Fantastic! My dream car, i nearly bought one in 1997 for £400, wish i had now. Dabs from Derby..x

[@scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain]

Another Fantastic Video Gary, have to admit i was never a huge XJS fan growing up, but i now really appreciate these lovely cars, there is something just so lovely about a XJS especially one of the later ones for me with the smoked rear lights.

[@RickCT2000]

Jag-Whisperer tames a barn find. Beautiful car, wonderful video

[@gary1705]

what a gorgeous thing and just my colours 👌

[@millsaab]

Superb ! I bought an XJS in the same red Bordeaux colour V12. Love to see more on this car please.

[@classic.obsession]

Nice one. I’ll have part 2 on in a week. If you’ve subscribed it’ll notify you. Regards.

[@scottstrails9369]

Great to see this car kept on the road by a true enthusiast with skill and care

[@davidgidman1224]

Brought back some memories ❤

[@jackdanielsamarreto]

Good afternoon Gary what another lovely episode 👍 I remember that doctor’s program you starred in 👍 I looked at this model in Bromley Kent jaguar dealers but I brought the bmw 7 series instead great episode great documentary on jaguars history.

[@classic.obsession]

Many thanks !

[@Theoriginalbigbrillo]

That's a Gary ( Former actor can't be Arsed to properly reply answer) Answer lol 🤣

[@manxman5175]

watched your work on the rolls royce ,,you did a great job,,, first time i have seen your channel, i will be watching more,, well done,,,a fan from lancaster,,

[@nomebear]

An old friend owned an XJS V12. Such a dream of a car to cruise around in, and an eye catcher to boot. I enjoyed every trip we took in the Jag, and I don't recall it being that expensive of maintenance compared to the Mercedes.

[@classic.obsession]

They’re a beautifully designed car with futuristic looks but at the plant and behind the scenes at production it was a different story. Some cars were thrown together using any parts to hand resulting in none matching interiors, poor rust proofing etc. and this coupled with numerous recalls, cars breaking down along with poor fuel consumption, new owners quickly lost confidence. Which almost resulted in bankruptcy for jaguar during the 80’s. I read once of a mark 2 jag found in a private garage with just 100 miles on the clock. Cellophane on the seats, literally brand new. On closer inspection, the car had never been painted or under sealed underneath at the factory! But that’s jaguar! But I’d still say the XJS is a true Jaguar. Legendary in looks and only now are we starting to appreciate how ahead of their time these v12’s were….but mechanically and build quality, the Benz’s of the time leave them way behind. Regards.

[@Theoriginalbigbrillo]

@@classic.obsession That's not Gary replying well to long and informative lol 😂Regards

[@joachimzegke9301]

what a beautiful car...😇

[@jimmorrow9773]

Another great episode Gary, really enjoying the show. Nice tribute to Derek Christian at the end.👏

[@paulbendon3578]

I recognise that car! Hehe. It’s beautiful. Awesome video. Truly fascinating stuff.

[@sailfinplecsb]

Great video Gary ,I love that Jag it's just gorgeous, keep up the gre

[@neilperry2224]

Sorry for the loss of your friend. Good luck with the car.

[@junkorbust9498]

Thanks for the series. I’m looking forward to tackling one I acquired a few years ago, it has not ran in 7-8 years and has been off the road for well over 20. It’s a 1977 model with driver(ish) quality paint and near perfect interior. It has Bosch D-Jetronic ignition and Borg Warner box. I’m a little afraid of her, afraid the big cat will eat me alive. My hair stands up when I look at her. I think perhaps that’s what Brown’s Lane had in mind during its inception. Luckily I’m in no immediate hurry with her as I have plenty of other cars, both projects and drivers. The XJ-S is truly something special and the early cars are the most true to the original design.

[@classic.obsession]

Hi. Yes these cars prove a challenge (even a good example as this one is) but considering their growing legend and popularity, definitely worth saving. Too many have gone to the knackers yard. Thankyou for watching and following. I hope you enjoy the next instalments. Regards.

[@jaguarrroman]

Great, do not stop!

[@knutarneaakra6013]

OMG what a great English motor. Just love her. Congrat Sir

[@benfel9403]

I am so desperate to own a v12 convertible but I dare not! Meanwhile prices rise and I will not have to worry about it much longer :)

[@jameshaddan8538]

One of my dream cars and that one is a real gem. Thanks for sharing!

[@paulreed3716]

I have had 2 of these and will probably fall for another..lovely film Gary.

[@johncollier608]

A true classic, Mr. Mavers. Hard to believe that just a few years ago, the XJS was dirt cheap and very much under appreciated. Now, prices continue to rise and everyone wants one (inlcuding me). Judging by what you have done before, I am confident your new aquisition will be a fine example of the type. Thank you for sharing.

[@nmas2956]

Gary - Really enjoying your content and presentation style the Rolls looks wonderful and the XJS is one of my favourites -Thank you - many more videos to come please!! - I hope😊 BW Nick

[@kevwhitbyify]

Hi Gary , had one as a daily driver for over 9 years. Back in the 90s ,Same colour combination . Lovely cars . and earned so many petrol soup bowls and glasses from the shell garage in Huyton couldn't give them away . Good luck with it .

[@jonor3370]

Great episode, Gary!

[@avistapartnership1979]

This series just gets better and better. K&D

[@dani18sg]

wow, this channel has really high quality content

[@InspirationSessions]

Lucky that my father had a couple of XJS's when I was growing up - a hardtop V12 and later on a V12 cabriolet. Both lovely cars, definitely more GTs than out-and-out sportscars but classy machines in any case. Modern Jags don't do it for me at all but older ones rule.

[@Dg-zj6jo]

nice memories brilliant video sir thankyou i still cant believe you did that roof on the rolls what a work of art wish you could do my bentley what a mechanic i would love a cornice one day

[@martinboulden4388]

Really enjoy your videos and taste in cars. ❤

[@chrishannon2717]

Fabulous Gary, next one please

[@ListerMotorsports]

a fine machine, ive owned dozens and am now driving an 07 XKR .. great find and video !!

[@stevejelly3161]

Hi Gary .... the black brake sphere is the ABS "Accumulator" !!! . If it's charged when unscrewed it'll "jump over the moon" ... (it's charged with nitrogen) !!! (it could easily cause an injury) . The brake pedal needs dabbing about 30 times to settle the diaphragm back to "atmosphere" !!! . Yeh it's the motor that pushes the brake fluid into the sphere to make the light go out . It's Bosch ABS 3 (i think) . Good luck !!!

[@thewatchman1078]

The channel is a real find, subscribed and really look forward to future content.

[@stringer-ik1pc]

Loved it. Love these cars. 👍

[@alanjohn8372]

Thank you for great content just love watching and learning !

[@justinhaslam-lucas8711]

Cant wait for the next episode.

[@roddyrobertson7589]

Brilliant 👍👍

[@stevestone4346]

Love the content of my favourite marque.

[@coesterg]

Great video. Bought a XJS coupe 1989 with only 38.000tkm in Jan. Done some work on the ignition, Oil changes etc and converted the aircon to modern cooling fluid. Drives fantastic what a machine. Looking forward to next episodes for sure! Rgds Casper (Denmark)

[@ianmedium]

You know, I had no idea you are an actor! I have been out of the UK for so long my TV memories end with Morcambe and Wise and yes minister! Have not owned a TV in decades! Still, my appreciations even greater for your skills as your not a pro!

[@herridge819]

Very enjoyable video , the car looks great , definitely worth applying some protection underneath such as Dinitrol/Lanoguard or similar

[@derekstocker6661]

Very well done on this one, fantastic cars and not many seen on the roads now, great that you can do much of the work yourself and save on workshop bills, looking forward to next episode!

[@davidredding1529]

excellent video Gary..have really enjoyed your them and served my apprenticeship at a jaguar dealership many moons ago..many a battle won and lost on these xjs..keep up the good work

[@stewartevans3875]

Great Episode Gary Lad ! Can't wait for the next one. Going to service the gearbox on my Daimler now I've seen you do it on the XJS. Compulsive viewing - interesting and at the right level for us home mechanics - keep up the great work and can't wait to see the next episode ! Stew x

[@classic.obsession]

Thanks Stew. if you also don't have a drainplug on the gearbox oil pan and you don't want an early bath, then first suck out the fluid through the gearbox dipstick before you drop the pan! some people find out the hard way!! regards.

[@stewartevans3875]

@@classic.obsession Thanks Gary - I'll take your advice on this - many jobs to do on Daimler and my Dad should also have his XJ12 back in the next few weeks with a few minor jobs to do including this on too I think. I'm renewing the Daimler headlining soo n and noticed that you seem to be doing the XjS header in the next episode too? I've bought a suede headliner for the Daimler - not standard I know but I keeping keeping I think and a little lush rather than the standard grey nylon type it had in it. Look forward to your next episode 👍

[@jbuckley2546]

This is a great channel, you pick some top motors to bring back to life. Love the fact you do the work yrself, rather than chuck a load of dinero at it. I can see the channel getting big, certainly hope so.

[@theoriginaljc-j]

I've also been considering an XJS to keep the Spirit company 😀 . I've also been following the path of fixing shoddy workmanship. Great series!

[@pauldillon4056]

Just loved it what I would give to get one like that .First wash a dream .

[@datsunruss]

I knew I had seen you before Gary but could not put my finger on it. Every episode of the Rolls Royce had me thinking. I thought you were Paul Jones from Manfred Mann's twin brother at first - but mystery solved. Love the content btw.👍

[@darrenbrailsford6809]

Lovely video Gary. It looks like you’ve dropped on a little gem with that Jaguar XJ-S she looks in lovely order. I also have one and had similar trouble with the brakes as mine had also not been used for many years. I had to replace the ABS unit as the valves inside has seized. A very expensive repair. The XJ-S is a stunning car with great cariama. I just think there beautiful.

[@TheMarcball]

Hey, also no drain plug on the Th400 transmission of my 1971 Riviera. Big mess. And found same black soot in the pan when i could finally pick the car up in France after 3 years away during lockdown... Thanks for the inspiration and keep on trucking!

[@colingarner6175]

Don’t be too long before the next video . I wish you’d recorded the Mercedes rebuild , the long wheelbase version is one of my favourite cars it’s the shape I love .!

[@johnbeaman1117]

oooo steel wool and chrome cleaner will takw care of the brightwork on your Jag. Makes it look new.

[@maximumentropyfilmservices2967]

Well Jel! That's a fine, fine bargain. Lucky man! (if you dont mind the fuel bills)

[@geoffclarke8934]

Have always liked the styling of the XJS and that V12 is a brilliant powerplant. The weak link is the 3 speed auto which strangles the performance somewhat and not good for fuel consumption.

[@Justkevin377]

You do incredible work

[@martinhunt6004]

Nice XJS, most splendid correct.

[@jumpfortyfour9965]

just found your videos bang on mate av subscribed

[@fariaultimate4264]

Apesar de minha dificuldade com a língua, sigo entusiasmado pelo seu trabalho. Este carro é fantástico e, é claro, V12. Saudações do Brasil.

[@lindathompson2624]

Brilliant as usual!

[@markjosephbudgieridgard]

Absolutely beautiful always loved the XJS.... looks just wonderful under the bonnet when you look under the bonnet of modern cars you just see a plastic cover over the engine.... The bonnet goes on for miles how on earth do you pull out of a side road in one of these buties? Haha 😂

[@stevecrowe8135]

I loved peak practice

[@lelandpodoll9628]

Beautiful

[@ananthabrahmantya795]

You're so inspiring sir...

[@610Mungral]

Did Gary just bend that brake pipe by hand? The random radius is so frustrating to my mind!

[@alimohammadi5203]

Very nice...

[@antonyjackson1257]

What a fantastic chanel!

[@andrewcraynor1252]

Top video with great content. It’s a YES from me 👋👋

[@ronniewilson6597]

Fantastic video Gary. Love the bit of acting looking at the service invoices. 😀. Can’t wait for the next episode 👍🏻. Have you still got the Mercedes short wheel base grosser.

[@philipchurchill6508]

I love those rims ,i think they are called BBS they had them on 80s aston V8 vantage

[@classic.obsession]

Hi Philip. They’re called ‘Fondmetal’ regards.

[@toni4729]

I loved the gleam on your face after you washed it and saw the finish. 😏😘✨✨

[@jongodsell88]

Hi Gary, I live in Wallasey and i own 1988 convertible. I've dropped the front suspension and overhauled it hopefully; it might be going back in over the weekend or early next week. I can concur with your comments about garages, I think, I'm sure a similar thing has happened to mine as well. Please feel free to contact me and come over if you wish.

[@cinemaipswich4636]

Considering the progression of 2 door coups of this age, the XJ12 and the HE need to offer more room, and interior comfort, than the E-type coupes the preceded them. The 2 door Bentley Saloon (not a coupe) came about at the same time.

[@briankennedy5578]

That black sludge in transmission is clutch friction material.

[@classic.obsession]

Hi Brian. I’ve just started to get that high pitched whine on start-up from cold. Just for a few seconds then it disappears. I knew I should’ve replaced that other deal when I changed the oil and filter! Sloppy! Regards.

[@sdry1688]

Did we get a brake pedal? - really love the show - the filming is top quality, and your talent is without doubt - in some episodes the edit can confuse me but I know it's early days - thanks for great content

[@charlescallea1759]

You are amazing!!!!