top of page

Jag Mag Blog

Testing the autostrada

Clean example with service history

Erin Taylor

If you’ve been searching for a well-cared-for XJ6, this listing may be exactly what you’ve been waiting for. The car has been owned by an enthusiast who kept meticulous service records, making it an ideal candidate for someone looking for a reliable classic.

Recent maintenance includes fresh fluids, updated suspension bushings, and a full brake service. The interior presents well with only minor wear, and the paint still shows a strong shine. Mechanically, the inline-six runs smoothly with no unusual noises or leaks.

Whether you’re after a weekend cruiser or an elegant daily driver, this XJ6 stands out as a solid, well-maintained example in a market where good ones are becoming harder to find.

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

Mike Watts

Scoring a good deal on a Jaguar isn’t luck — it’s patience, timing, and knowing where to look. The market for older Jags moves in waves, and the best cars usually sell quietly, long before they hit big public listings. Start by watching the smaller regional classifieds and enthusiast forums. Owners who’ve cared for their cars tend to list them locally first, hoping they’ll go to someone who appreciates the brand.

Mileage matters less on these cars than condition. A well-maintained example with service records, clean paint, and a tidy interior is usually a better buy than a low-mile car with deferred maintenance. Rust and electrical neglect are the big deal-breakers; walk away if you see either.

Check listings daily. The good ones disappear in hours, not weeks. Set alerts on Craigslist, Marketplace, Bring a Trailer, and AutoTrader Classics, but don’t overlook niche groups — the best deals often show up in club circles before anywhere else.

When you find a car that checks the boxes, move quickly but not blindly. Ask for cold-start videos, service history, and undercarriage photos. A solid Jaguar bought right will hold its value and deliver the driving experience these cars are known for.

A lovely drive

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

Maggie Lane

Hi everyone — I’m new to the club and wanted to introduce myself. I’ve always loved cars, especially the classic lines and character you get from older models, and I’ve finally reached the point where I want to be more involved in a real community.

I joined the last dinner drive and had a great time meeting people, seeing the variety of cars, and getting a feel for how active and welcoming the group is. I’m looking forward to joining more events, learning from the experienced members, and — most importantly — getting out on the road.

If you see me at a meet-up, feel free to say hi. I’m excited to connect with more of you and get involved in future drives. Thanks for having me!

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

Excited to join you all for future drives

Bill Smith

Our recent meet-up turned into a surprisingly fun evening. What started as a small plan grew into a solid turnout, and everyone brought good energy to the event. We started with a quick walk-around of the cars, shared a few updates on ongoing projects, and swapped stories about recent drives.

After that, we headed inside for dinner where the conversation carried on without slowing down. It’s always interesting how these informal events bring out the best discussions — everything from technical advice to road trip recommendations to light-hearted stories about car quirks.

The group vibe was relaxed and easy, and newcomers blended right in. By the end of the night, people were already talking about the next drive and tossing around ideas for future outings. Events like this don’t need to be complicated to be worthwhile; they just need the right people, and this one hit the mark. Thanks to everyone who showed up.

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

Supporting club programs and events

Sharon Case

We sometimes have non-members go to our Seattle Jaguar Club website and click on the CONTACT US button to ask us questions or ask for help. Sometimes they want to donate pewter trophies to the club. A recent contact was Bob & Carol Sale. Bob is a retired FBI agent and his wife Carol was a nurse. Bob owned an XK150 and an E-Type. At one time he had raced his E-Type at the Pacific Raceway. Bob said “Unfortunately, I never belonged to the club”.

As Bob and Carol try to clean house, thinking about down sizing, they found old Jaguar manuals and a few things they wanted to donate. The items will make nice additions to the Silent Auction where funds go to benefit Northwest Harvest.

Thank you Bob and Carol!

Excited to join you all for future drives

What to look for when buying

Sharon Case

If you read the article last month about the Heritage Classic in Langley BC you know that Randy Pickett and Sue Nelson and Brian and I were trying to find Scott Mason a Jaguar E-Type during the dinner at Adrians. Scott is a member of the Canadian XK Jaguar Register and did not own a Jaguar. Scott was very specific about his wants. He was looking for a Series 1 Roadster with a 4.2 engine. Not a project car but he didn’t need a Concours level car. Before the dinner was over Randy had found one that might fit the bill, down in California.

Well sometimes things actually work out! Scott bought the 1966 E-Type Randy spotted! It turned out to be all matching numbers with a Heritage Certificate and everything Scott was looking for. Scott invited his friend Josh, from Australia, to join him on the road trip to drive it from CA to BC. Of course we all wanted to see it! We arranged to meet Scott and his friend Josh at the Shawn O’Donnells restaurant in Everett.

It looks like a great car and we hope Scott enjoys the heck out of driving it! Watch for it next August at our Jaguars on the Green!

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

Why this route is a club favorite

Fran Lee

Every club has its legendary route — the one members talk about long after the drive is over. For us, this one takes the crown. The mix of sweeping curves, open straights, and evergreen-lined scenery creates a perfect driving experience.

The road starts gently, giving everyone time to settle in before opening into long, rhythmic bends ideal for classic Jaguars. Midway through, the route dips toward the water, offering stunning views and a great photo stop.

The group camaraderie made this year’s run even better. Members helped each other navigate, shared snacks at the break, and enjoyed the feeling of being part of something special. It’s clear why this drive keeps ending up on our annual list.

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

Keeping your braking system sharp

Bill Holmes

A firm, consistent brake pedal is essential for safety and driving confidence. If your Jaguar feels spongy or inconsistent under braking, a simple brake bleed may be all it needs. This guide breaks down the basics so any owner can tackle the job at home.

Start by topping off the brake fluid reservoir with fresh DOT-rated fluid. Working one wheel at a time, attach a clear hose to the bleeder valve and slowly pump the brake pedal while opening and closing the valve. Continue until you see clean, bubble-free fluid flowing.

Always work in the correct sequence — typically the wheel farthest from the master cylinder first. Keep the reservoir topped up to avoid introducing air back into the system. Once complete, test the pedal before driving.

A well-bled system restores proper feel and ensures the braking performance your car was designed to deliver.

Excited to join you all for future drives

A beautiful day of cars and community

Sally Field

Fall is shaping up to be a busy and exciting season for the club. Cooler weather and scenic foliage make this one of the best times to get the cars out for drives, and we have several gatherings lined up.

We’ll kick things off with a casual meet-up at Green Lake where members can connect, share stories, and check out each other’s builds. The fall drive is back as well, featuring a relaxed route through winding backroads with plenty of photo stops.

Tech sessions will also return, focusing on small DIY maintenance tasks members have asked for — perfect for anyone wanting to gain a little more confidence under the hood. Finally, the annual charity push begins in November, where we raise donations for local community groups.

It’s a great lineup, and we hope to see everyone out enjoying their cars and the season.

A lovely drive

Highlights from this year’s show

Mike Watts

This year’s Concours brought together some of the cleanest and most impressive Jaguars in the region. From early E-Types to modern performance models, the field showcased the full spectrum of craftsmanship and history the marque is known for.

Judges noted exceptional restoration work across the board, with several first-time entrants earning awards. The crowd favorite was a perfectly preserved Series 1 roadster that drew attention all afternoon. Beyond the cars, the event delivered great weather, friendly conversations, and a strong turnout of both members and guests.

Enjoy this gallery capturing the best moments and standout vehicles of the day.

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

Clean example with service history

Erin Taylor

If you’ve been searching for a well-cared-for XJ6, this listing may be exactly what you’ve been waiting for. The car has been owned by an enthusiast who kept meticulous service records, making it an ideal candidate for someone looking for a reliable classic.

Recent maintenance includes fresh fluids, updated suspension bushings, and a full brake service. The interior presents well with only minor wear, and the paint still shows a strong shine. Mechanically, the inline-six runs smoothly with no unusual noises or leaks.

Whether you’re after a weekend cruiser or an elegant daily driver, this XJ6 stands out as a solid, well-maintained example in a market where good ones are becoming harder to find.

A lovely drive

Submitted without a title; content pending

Casey Brown

Scoring a good deal on a Jaguar isn’t luck — it’s patience, timing, and knowing where to look. The market for older Jags moves in waves, and the best cars usually sell quietly, long before they hit big public listings. Start by watching the smaller regional classifieds and enthusiast forums. Owners who’ve cared for their cars tend to list them locally first, hoping they’ll go to someone who appreciates the brand.

Mileage matters less on these cars than condition. A well-maintained example with service records, clean paint, and a tidy interior is usually a better buy than a low-mile car with deferred maintenance. Rust and electrical neglect are the big deal-breakers; walk away if you see either.

Check listings daily. The good ones disappear in hours, not weeks. Set alerts on Craigslist, Marketplace, Bring a Trailer, and AutoTrader Classics, but don’t overlook niche groups — the best deals often show up in club circles before anywhere else.

When you find a car that checks the boxes, move quickly but not blindly. Ask for cold-start videos, service history, and undercarriage photos. A solid Jaguar bought right will hold its value and deliver the driving experience these cars are known for.

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

Supporting club programs and events

Sharon Case

We sometimes have non-members go to our Seattle Jaguar Club website and click on the CONTACT US button to ask us questions or ask for help. Sometimes they want to donate pewter trophies to the club. A recent contact was Bob & Carol Sale. Bob is a retired FBI agent and his wife Carol was a nurse. Bob owned an XK150 and an E-Type. At one time he had raced his E-Type at the Pacific Raceway. Bob said “Unfortunately, I never belonged to the club”.

As Bob and Carol try to clean house, thinking about down sizing, they found old Jaguar manuals and a few things they wanted to donate. The items will make nice additions to the Silent Auction where funds go to benefit Northwest Harvest.

Thank you Bob and Carol!

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

What to look for when buying

Sharon Case

If you read the article last month about the Heritage Classic in Langley BC you know that Randy Pickett and Sue Nelson and Brian and I were trying to find Scott Mason a Jaguar E-Type during the dinner at Adrians. Scott is a member of the Canadian XK Jaguar Register and did not own a Jaguar. Scott was very specific about his wants. He was looking for a Series 1 Roadster with a 4.2 engine. Not a project car but he didn’t need a Concours level car. Before the dinner was over Randy had found one that might fit the bill, down in California.

Well sometimes things actually work out! Scott bought the 1966 E-Type Randy spotted! It turned out to be all matching numbers with a Heritage Certificate and everything Scott was looking for. Scott invited his friend Josh, from Australia, to join him on the road trip to drive it from CA to BC. Of course we all wanted to see it! We arranged to meet Scott and his friend Josh at the Shawn O’Donnells restaurant in Everett.

It looks like a great car and we hope Scott enjoys the heck out of driving it! Watch for it next August at our Jaguars on the Green!

Excited to join you all for future drives

Why this route is a club favorite

Fran Lee

Every club has its legendary route — the one members talk about long after the drive is over. For us, this one takes the crown. The mix of sweeping curves, open straights, and evergreen-lined scenery creates a perfect driving experience.

The road starts gently, giving everyone time to settle in before opening into long, rhythmic bends ideal for classic Jaguars. Midway through, the route dips toward the water, offering stunning views and a great photo stop.

The group camaraderie made this year’s run even better. Members helped each other navigate, shared snacks at the break, and enjoyed the feeling of being part of something special. It’s clear why this drive keeps ending up on our annual list.

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

Keeping your braking system sharp

Bill Holmes

A firm, consistent brake pedal is essential for safety and driving confidence. If your Jaguar feels spongy or inconsistent under braking, a simple brake bleed may be all it needs. This guide breaks down the basics so any owner can tackle the job at home.

Start by topping off the brake fluid reservoir with fresh DOT-rated fluid. Working one wheel at a time, attach a clear hose to the bleeder valve and slowly pump the brake pedal while opening and closing the valve. Continue until you see clean, bubble-free fluid flowing.

Always work in the correct sequence — typically the wheel farthest from the master cylinder first. Keep the reservoir topped up to avoid introducing air back into the system. Once complete, test the pedal before driving.

A well-bled system restores proper feel and ensures the braking performance your car was designed to deliver.

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

A beautiful day of cars and community

Sally Field

Fall is shaping up to be a busy and exciting season for the club. Cooler weather and scenic foliage make this one of the best times to get the cars out for drives, and we have several gatherings lined up.

We’ll kick things off with a casual meet-up at Green Lake where members can connect, share stories, and check out each other’s builds. The fall drive is back as well, featuring a relaxed route through winding backroads with plenty of photo stops.

Tech sessions will also return, focusing on small DIY maintenance tasks members have asked for — perfect for anyone wanting to gain a little more confidence under the hood. Finally, the annual charity push begins in November, where we raise donations for local community groups.

It’s a great lineup, and we hope to see everyone out enjoying their cars and the season.

Testing the autostrada

Highlights from this year’s show

Mike Watts

This year’s Concours brought together some of the cleanest and most impressive Jaguars in the region. From early E-Types to modern performance models, the field showcased the full spectrum of craftsmanship and history the marque is known for.

Judges noted exceptional restoration work across the board, with several first-time entrants earning awards. The crowd favorite was a perfectly preserved Series 1 roadster that drew attention all afternoon. Beyond the cars, the event delivered great weather, friendly conversations, and a strong turnout of both members and guests.

Enjoy this gallery capturing the best moments and standout vehicles of the day.

Hunting Big Cats

Well-maintained classic looking for a new home

Bill Smith

October 2025

I’m putting my XJ40 up for sale and wanted to offer it to club members first before listing it more broadly. The car has been well-maintained and driven regularly enough to stay healthy without being overused. The body is straight, the interior is in good shape for its age, and it’s always been kept out of harsh weather.

Mechanically, it’s solid. Recent work includes fluids, filters, and basic upkeep to keep it dependable. It’s not a concours car, but it’s a clean, honest example that would make a great driver or a perfect foundation for someone who wants a classic Jaguar without the headache of a neglected project.

If you’re looking for an XJ40 you can enjoy immediately — something comfortable, smooth, and unmistakably Jaguar — this is worth a look. I’m happy to answer questions, send additional photos, or arrange a time to see it in person. Respectful offers welcome.

Autumn Drive Highlights

The scenery, the cars, and the people

Bill Smith

October 2025

Our recent meet-up turned into a surprisingly fun evening. What started as a small plan grew into a solid turnout, and everyone brought good energy to the event. We started with a quick walk-around of the cars, shared a few updates on ongoing projects, and swapped stories about recent drives.

After that, we headed inside for dinner where the conversation carried on without slowing down. It’s always interesting how these informal events bring out the best discussions — everything from technical advice to road trip recommendations to light-hearted stories about car quirks.

The group vibe was relaxed and easy, and newcomers blended right in. By the end of the night, people were already talking about the next drive and tossing around ideas for future outings. Events like this don’t need to be complicated to be worthwhile; they just need the right people, and this one hit the mark. Thanks to everyone who showed up.

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

Excited to join you all for future drives

Maggie Lane

November 2025

Hi everyone — I’m new to the club and wanted to introduce myself. I’ve always loved cars, especially the classic lines and character you get from older models, and I’ve finally reached the point where I want to be more involved in a real community.

I joined the last dinner drive and had a great time meeting people, seeing the variety of cars, and getting a feel for how active and welcoming the group is. I’m looking forward to joining more events, learning from the experienced members, and — most importantly — getting out on the road.

If you see me at a meet-up, feel free to say hi. I’m excited to connect with more of you and get involved in future drives. Thanks for having me!

Hunting Big Cats

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

Mike Watts

November 2025

Scoring a good deal on a Jaguar isn’t luck — it’s patience, timing, and knowing where to look. The market for older Jags moves in waves, and the best cars usually sell quietly, long before they hit big public listings. Start by watching the smaller regional classifieds and enthusiast forums. Owners who’ve cared for their cars tend to list them locally first, hoping they’ll go to someone who appreciates the brand.

Mileage matters less on these cars than condition. A well-maintained example with service records, clean paint, and a tidy interior is usually a better buy than a low-mile car with deferred maintenance. Rust and electrical neglect are the big deal-breakers; walk away if you see either.

Check listings daily. The good ones disappear in hours, not weeks. Set alerts on Craigslist, Marketplace, Bring a Trailer, and AutoTrader Classics, but don’t overlook niche groups — the best deals often show up in club circles before anywhere else.

When you find a car that checks the boxes, move quickly but not blindly. Ask for cold-start videos, service history, and undercarriage photos. A solid Jaguar bought right will hold its value and deliver the driving experience these cars are known for.

Excited to join you all for future drives

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

Alex Turner

November 2025

n uneven or wandering idle is one of the most common problems Jaguar owners face, especially on older models. The good news is that most idle issues can be resolved with a few basic checks you can do at home.

Start by inspecting the vacuum lines. Brittle, cracked hoses allow unmetered air into the system and can quickly cause idle instability. Replace anything that looks aged or loose. Next, clean the idle air control valve. Carbon buildup restricts airflow and prevents the valve from regulating properly. A can of throttle-body cleaner usually does the job.

If the issue persists, check for dirty fuel injectors or a clogged air filter. Poor fuel delivery forces the engine control unit to compensate, often resulting in surging idle behavior. Finally, verify your spark plugs and ignition coils are in good condition. Weak spark leads to intermittent misfires that feel like rough idling.

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

What’s ahead for events and meetups

Jordan Blake

November 2025

aweff

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

Submitted without a title; content pending

Casey Brown

November 2025

Scoring a good deal on a Jaguar isn’t luck — it’s patience, timing, and knowing where to look. The market for older Jags moves in waves, and the best cars usually sell quietly, long before they hit big public listings. Start by watching the smaller regional classifieds and enthusiast forums. Owners who’ve cared for their cars tend to list them locally first, hoping they’ll go to someone who appreciates the brand.

Mileage matters less on these cars than condition. A well-maintained example with service records, clean paint, and a tidy interior is usually a better buy than a low-mile car with deferred maintenance. Rust and electrical neglect are the big deal-breakers; walk away if you see either.

Check listings daily. The good ones disappear in hours, not weeks. Set alerts on Craigslist, Marketplace, Bring a Trailer, and AutoTrader Classics, but don’t overlook niche groups — the best deals often show up in club circles before anywhere else.

When you find a car that checks the boxes, move quickly but not blindly. Ask for cold-start videos, service history, and undercarriage photos. A solid Jaguar bought right will hold its value and deliver the driving experience these cars are known for.

Excited to join you all for future drives

Clean example with service history

Erin Taylor

November 2025

If you’ve been searching for a well-cared-for XJ6, this listing may be exactly what you’ve been waiting for. The car has been owned by an enthusiast who kept meticulous service records, making it an ideal candidate for someone looking for a reliable classic.

Recent maintenance includes fresh fluids, updated suspension bushings, and a full brake service. The interior presents well with only minor wear, and the paint still shows a strong shine. Mechanically, the inline-six runs smoothly with no unusual noises or leaks.

Whether you’re after a weekend cruiser or an elegant daily driver, this XJ6 stands out as a solid, well-maintained example in a market where good ones are becoming harder to find.

Tracking down the perfect classic Jaguar

Highlights from this year’s show

Mike Watts

November 2025

This year’s Concours brought together some of the cleanest and most impressive Jaguars in the region. From early E-Types to modern performance models, the field showcased the full spectrum of craftsmanship and history the marque is known for.

Judges noted exceptional restoration work across the board, with several first-time entrants earning awards. The crowd favorite was a perfectly preserved Series 1 roadster that drew attention all afternoon. Beyond the cars, the event delivered great weather, friendly conversations, and a strong turnout of both members and guests.

Enjoy this gallery capturing the best moments and standout vehicles of the day.

A simple guide for weekend mechanics

A beautiful day of cars and community

Sally Field

November 2025

Fall is shaping up to be a busy and exciting season for the club. Cooler weather and scenic foliage make this one of the best times to get the cars out for drives, and we have several gatherings lined up.

We’ll kick things off with a casual meet-up at Green Lake where members can connect, share stories, and check out each other’s builds. The fall drive is back as well, featuring a relaxed route through winding backroads with plenty of photo stops.

Tech sessions will also return, focusing on small DIY maintenance tasks members have asked for — perfect for anyone wanting to gain a little more confidence under the hood. Finally, the annual charity push begins in November, where we raise donations for local community groups.

It’s a great lineup, and we hope to see everyone out enjoying their cars and the season.

Simple Brake Bleeding Guide

Keeping your braking system sharp

Bill Holmes

November 2025

A firm, consistent brake pedal is essential for safety and driving confidence. If your Jaguar feels spongy or inconsistent under braking, a simple brake bleed may be all it needs. This guide breaks down the basics so any owner can tackle the job at home.

Start by topping off the brake fluid reservoir with fresh DOT-rated fluid. Working one wheel at a time, attach a clear hose to the bleeder valve and slowly pump the brake pedal while opening and closing the valve. Continue until you see clean, bubble-free fluid flowing.

Always work in the correct sequence — typically the wheel farthest from the master cylinder first. Keep the reservoir topped up to avoid introducing air back into the system. Once complete, test the pedal before driving.

A well-bled system restores proper feel and ensures the braking performance your car was designed to deliver.

Best Drive Ever

Why this route is a club favorite

Fran Lee

November 2025

Every club has its legendary route — the one members talk about long after the drive is over. For us, this one takes the crown. The mix of sweeping curves, open straights, and evergreen-lined scenery creates a perfect driving experience.

The road starts gently, giving everyone time to settle in before opening into long, rhythmic bends ideal for classic Jaguars. Midway through, the route dips toward the water, offering stunning views and a great photo stop.

The group camaraderie made this year’s run even better. Members helped each other navigate, shared snacks at the break, and enjoyed the feeling of being part of something special. It’s clear why this drive keeps ending up on our annual list.

Finding the E-Type of Your Dreams

What to look for when buying

Sharon Case

November 2025

If you read the article last month about the Heritage Classic in Langley BC you know that Randy Pickett and Sue Nelson and Brian and I were trying to find Scott Mason a Jaguar E-Type during the dinner at Adrians. Scott is a member of the Canadian XK Jaguar Register and did not own a Jaguar. Scott was very specific about his wants. He was looking for a Series 1 Roadster with a 4.2 engine. Not a project car but he didn’t need a Concours level car. Before the dinner was over Randy had found one that might fit the bill, down in California.

Well sometimes things actually work out! Scott bought the 1966 E-Type Randy spotted! It turned out to be all matching numbers with a Heritage Certificate and everything Scott was looking for. Scott invited his friend Josh, from Australia, to join him on the road trip to drive it from CA to BC. Of course we all wanted to see it! We arranged to meet Scott and his friend Josh at the Shawn O’Donnells restaurant in Everett.

It looks like a great car and we hope Scott enjoys the heck out of driving it! Watch for it next August at our Jaguars on the Green!

Donations Are Always Welcome!

Supporting club programs and events

Sharon Case

November 2025

We sometimes have non-members go to our Seattle Jaguar Club website and click on the CONTACT US button to ask us questions or ask for help. Sometimes they want to donate pewter trophies to the club. A recent contact was Bob & Carol Sale. Bob is a retired FBI agent and his wife Carol was a nurse. Bob owned an XK150 and an E-Type. At one time he had raced his E-Type at the Pacific Raceway. Bob said “Unfortunately, I never belonged to the club”.

As Bob and Carol try to clean house, thinking about down sizing, they found old Jaguar manuals and a few things they wanted to donate. The items will make nice additions to the Silent Auction where funds go to benefit Northwest Harvest.

Thank you Bob and Carol!

Excited to join you all for future drives

A relaxed fall cruise to Ocean Shores

Mike Watts

October 2025

The coastal drive turned out even better than expected. Warm weather, clear roads, and a light ocean breeze made it one of those days where everything falls into place. We met up early, lined up the cars, and headed out in a relaxed caravan. The stretch between Aberdeen and Ocean Shores was the highlight — long, open views with enough twists to keep it interesting without pushing the pace.

Once we reached the beach, we parked, walked the sand, and spent some time catching up. It was simple, easy, and exactly the kind of Sunday escape everyone needed. A few of us grabbed dinner in town before heading back, and the drive home had that calm twilight lighting you only get in late summer.

If you missed this one, don’t worry — we’ll be doing another coastal run soon. It’s an ideal route for any car in the club, especially if you like an easy drive with plenty of scenery. Days like this remind us why we keep doing these outings: good roads, good company, and a low-stress way to enjoy our cars.

bottom of page