ASK TOM

Question 2 from Gerald W. in Jackson Hole, WY:
I've inherited a 1963 XKE from a family member, and I noticed that there is an aluminum plate situated next to the Data Plate that says "J63" riveted in place...What is this plate, and what does it designate? 

Tom's Answer:
When the XKE was first introduced, the California DMV didn't think there were enough digits in an XKE's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), so they added a 'J' for Jaguar, then added the year in which it was made - i.e. "J63", "J68", etc. and did this up until the early 1970s. Ultimately, this plate proves it is in fact an original California car. *Please note these extra data plates will not be listed on a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate - but the DMV might have slipped and put those letters and numbers on your title and registration. You can  either leave it intact, or you can create a statement of facts, and go back to the DMV with your JDHT and verify it with them.

Question 3: Lawrence S. in Rancho Santa Fe, CA:
What do you recommend for a battery for a Series 1 E-type? I want the correct size one that is good for showing, and it must fit in the battery retaining frame, not just the bottom tray. I live in CA so cold starts are not an issue.

Tom's Answer: 
If you will be showing your car then we think you will like a Lucas “tar top” battery. It does fit perfectly, including inside the retaining frame that fits over the top of the battery. However, if you want a more dependable and less expensive battery then you can use a black Group 86 battery from Interstate Battery, Bosch, or any other major brand. If the retaining frame is slightly different in size, you can cut and weld down the frame to make it smaller. Then it will pass in a concours. If you do that then we recommend you remove the decal off the battery and put a Lucas battery decal on the front. Then it would be Concours correct, and last longer than the tar top. 

Question 4: John S. in Irvine, CA:
I am restoring my XKE, and was thinking about installing a 5-speed to it...What are your thoughts on this?                 

Tom's Answer: 
Today’s driving of fast speeds on the freeways are in excess of 65 mph. In the 1960’s the average speed was much less, more like 50 mph. With the 4 speed, your engine is now running higher RPM’s because of the faster speeds. Your objective would be to reduce the RPM’s in the engine. With the 5 speed, it gives you a longer longevity of the engine which takes a lot of work away from the engine and in addition it is more cost effective with both gasoline and repairs. The 5 speed is close ratio and it also makes the vehicle more fun to drive. Note the picture to the right is a 5-speed being installed to the car.

Question 5 from Suzzanne G. in Los Angeles, CA: 
My uncle - who passed away earlier in the year was a classic Jaguar owner and enthusiast, and left me his collection of classic model cars, magazines from the 60s and 70s, and a large collection of early Jaguar tools. I am not a car person, but would like to see these items go to the right place...I was wondering if you knew of a non-profit tax-deductible organization that I can donate these items to that would benefit other Jaguar fans who are active in the hobby?

Tom's Answer: 
Yes - there is such a charitable organization that would be happy to accept your uncle's memorabilia - The Coventry Foundation. The Foundation has been created by passionate Jaguar people who donate their time, resources, and services with the goal of better serving the Jaguar Heritage and preserving the marque for future generations. The Foundation's mission is to preserve the Heritage of Jaguar Cars in North America. They take their role seriously and need support to continue their work. If you have memorabilia, Literature, or a vehicle that you would like to donate, or you would like to make a monetary donation, please contact them. They are a 501c3 public charity, and donations are tax deductible to the donor as allowable by law. Find out more about the Foundation by visiting: the Coventry Foundation website.