SPRING 2023 NEWSLETTER
Question 1 from Steven B. in Los Gatos, CA:
What things did you notice different in Scottsdale this year as opposed to years passed?
Tom's Answer:
To
begin there were less auction houses in Scottsdale this year…Gooding’s and Worldwide Auctions didn’t participate. They
did bring back the Scottsdale Concours on a smaller scale , and as we
understand it will become an annual event once again which is very
positive for Scottsdale Car Week. Barrett-Jackson had a spectacular sale, and
likely one of their larger line ups of cars in recent memory, all being
auctioned at no reserve. The attendance was very strong and in fact broke
numerous world sales records on various cars crossing the block. The market and show
circuit have been in the process of rebounding, and the return of the concours
to Scottsdale, as well as healthy attendance show proof of a return to form for
Scottdale car week, and we look forward to next year’s event.
Question 2 from Laura B. in Las Vegas, NV:
You have been in the industry for many years - what changes do you predict in terms of popular models, collector preferences, and market values for 2023?
Tom's Answer:
American domestic, and custom vehicles - particularly American trucks have proven to be extremely popular, as evidenced by sales numbers and levels interest at Scottdale; whether stock or highly modified, each variety of Truck proved to be very popular, and I think this trend will continue. In addition, the "best of the best" in Euro cars, as well as limited and low production examples also did extremely well. All indications show that these types of vehicles will continue to grow throughout the year.
Question 3 from Rick S. in Los Angeles, CA:
I have been looking to purchase my first E-Type and have been torn on what series to choose from. I understand that Series 1s are the most coveted, but I am more interested in driving and showing the car….As a marque expert in Jaguar restoration, what is your opinion on restoring a Series 2 or 3 XKE? Do you believe it is a worthwhile endeavor for collectors and enthusiasts, and what are some of the challenges?
Tom's Answer:
With Series 1s continuing to go up in value and beoming harder to find, the Series 2s and 3s are starting to appreciate in value, as well as scarcity. What is also benefit to the later series E-types is not only are they starting to appreciate, but they also offer more features that are a positive for larger drivers.
Question 4 from Debra W. in Denver, CO:
I have a 1966 E-type that is missing one of the horns...How do I tell which one is missing?
Tom's Answer:
The E-type had two horns located on the frame just behind the radiator, one a High note, the other a Low note. The horns will have a “H” or an “L” engraved in it, so you can determine which is which. Once you have determined which one is missing, then it can be purchased easily at one of many Jaguar suppliers.
Question 5 from Walter B. in Seattle, WA:
What kind of 5 speed can I install in my 1967 Jaguar XKE with little to no modifications?
Tom's Answer:
Here are the ones that are commercially available for installation in a Jaguar E-type:
The Gearbox
from E-type Fabs - The short tail version is used for SWB cars, while
the long tail is available for V12's. The 6-cylinder kit uses the Model
S gearbox as the base platform. The kit includes the gearbox, shifter,
knob, mount, driveshaft flange, driveshaft and clutch disc. A new
heavy-duty bellhousing is supplied.
Cosworth
designed MT75
, in a specially designed case, installs with only minor
modification, comes with most installation parts, and utilizes your
original bellhousing.
JT5 (formerly Medatronics) - The JT5 is the most widely used 5 speed conversion for vintage Jaguars.
T5 Tremec 5-Speed Conversion Gearbox. This is a direct replacement for the original Jaguar E-Type transmission.
Borg Warner T5 Worldclass. The BW T5WC is a high-performance version of the familiar BW T5
Getrag gearbox - There are 2 versions of the Getrag 5 speed. The STD version with OD
5th and the "sport" box with direct 5th and dog's leg 1st.
Tremec 3550. This is a very high-performance transmission meant to replace the BW T5
in racing applications. It is made in Mexico.
