Expert: Jeff Wayco - 9/27/2009

Question
QUESTION: hello, I have a 1973 Jaguar XJ6, and there is a problem with the ignition lock assembly, do you know the best way to remove it from the dash board and replace it?  Do I have to take out the dash?  Thank you for your time

ANSWER: Hi William,

I do appreciate you asking me a question, however that is NOT in my area expertise. (but further along in this text...I tell you about a website that Jaguar owners rely on for all sorts of Jaguar related information)

I have volunteered to answer questions that relate to “Automotive Wooden Interior Trim”.  

Specifically the “Real” wood trim parts found in Jaguars, Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce, Bentleys, BMWs, Jensen Healeys, Austin Healeys, Triumphs - etc. etc. etc.

Should you or any of your fellow automotive enthusiasts have interior wood trim in their vehicles....and IF that wood is having trouble.....I can help.

BUT - THERE IS A GREAT SITE FOR JAGUAR OWNERS WHERE YOU COULD PROBABLY FIND YOUR ANSWER - OR SOMEONE TO HELP YOU.

GO TO:  www.jag-lovers.org

THERE IS A WEALTH OF INFORMATION THERE, FOR EVERY YEAR AND MODEL OF JAGUAR !!!!!!

Thank you.

OH, and for what it is worth, I would think that you might want to search for a Jaguar car club in your area, many folks in clubs are very helpful people and may be able to help you find your answer...making a friend or two in that "world" would be very helpful, especially if you are going to do mechanical work yourself.  Who knows, maybe one of those folks has had the same problem.

Also, I don't know if Haynes or Chilton ever printed a repair manual for Jaguars...but you could maybe find that sort of thing out on the jag-lovers website.  

AND, should your woodwork start to have any trouble....give me a shout - 1-800-962-1579

Happy Motoring,

Jeff


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Jeff, thank you for your reply, I have been to the jag lovers site, it is a valuable resource.  I have the dash board off and am about to strip it and re-varnish it.  I have been advised:
"don't use some spray can stuff from Home Depot. Most of it will
yellow quite quickly. I have found that the best ( but expensive)
is PPG 2021. I use a small detail HVLP spray gun. Works great. Flow a substantial amount of clear onto the dash in a series of ''spray let dry'' cycles of about 15 minutes each. Mix in some reducer on the last coat and the dash will come out with a mirror finish."  

Is this - in your opinion - the only way?  If it is I am leaning towards a professional doing it - I don't really feel like buying a spray gun, but I also don't want the dash to look like garbage.

Thank you Jeff

Answer
Good Morning William,

Yup, you are correct that the "do it yourself" method, can be more involved than one anticipates.  And, the results can be disappointing.  That is not to say that some can do a pretty good job.  

Previously, I offered my phone number so that you can call me if you'd like.  I think you may have reached that point....so give me a call, and I wish you....

Happy Motoring,

Jeff