1955 Jaguar XK140 OTS - Rejuvenation

The XK140 was introduced in late 1954 and exterior changes that distinguished it from the XK120 included more substantial front and rear bumpers with overriders, and flashing turn signals. The grille remained the same size but became a one-piece cast unit with fewer, and broader, vertical bars. The Jaguar badge was incorporated into the grille surround.

An emblem on the boot lid contained the words "Winner Le Mans 1951–3". The interior was made more comfortable for taller drivers by moving the engine, firewall and dash forward to give 3 inches (76 mm) more legroom. Two 6-volt batteries, one in each front wing were fitted to the Fixed Head Coupe, but Drop Heads and the Open Two Seater had a single 12-volt battery installed in the front wing on the passenger side. The XK140 was powered by the 3.4 litre Jaguar XK double overhead camshaft inline-6 engine and fitted with the C-type head, 2-inch SU carburettors, heavier torsion bars and twin exhaust pipes.

We first got to know the XK!40 OTS in the spring where we were asked to cast an expert eye over it before our oversees client presses the ‘buy it now’ button. Sure, the XK140 OTS with bumpers removed looks absolutely fantastic, but is it really as good as it looks ? Our careful inspection proved to be worth while as we identified imperfections and a series of small faults, nothing to detract from the gorgeous looks and feel of the mid 50’ roadster. Our XK140 OTS was previously used for long distance rallying with several major improvements already fitted like the 5-speed Getrag gearbox, suitable blower, Aluminium radiator with electric fan, double ignition coil (one spare), the list goes one. Opportunities for improvement were drawn and finally a deal was done based on our report and findings.

Photography by Nick Dalton

The OTS has been in storage for some time, so our first point of call were the rubber elements like coolant, oil and fuel rubber pipes, a front suspension refresh including polybush set and a major overhaul for the brakes and handbrake were on our list. Improvements to the electrical installation were made, a general tidy up or lose ends, dynamo rebuild, dashboard gauges re-calibration and the indicators switch received a revamp so the self cancelling indicators work as they should once again. We aimed to bring the rally tourer back to former glory, perfectly able to drive the twisty roads of Devon but also capable of long distance motorway trips.

If you would like to discuss the mechanical rejuvenation of your Jaguar XK120, XK140 or XK150, please don’t hesitate to get in touch using the contact form below or via our usual contact details :

0115 9262266 or info@thorntonrestorations.com