Daimler XJ40 4.0

[mikegamble]

Well, I’m back.
It’s been probably the best part of 5 years but, I’ve finally found another car.
I sold my last car, a TWR version as I was having issues with it’s lowered suspension/body kit as it kept snagging on my slightly steep drive.
It was always my intention to get another car but, I struggled to find something suitable.
This search was also made slightly more difficult due to my location, the very bottom of Cornwall and, my desire for the Daimler version.
However, after many hours on the net, I finally found one on eBay that seemed to meet the bill, what appeared to be quite a nice car in burgundy that appeared to have been well looked after?
As is often the way, it was miles away, Swadlincote but, it was an auction so, I decided to risk it and have a cheeky bid and see what happened.
It appears that at the moment people are preoccupied with other pressing matters and, I would up owning it for far less than expected!
I managed to get it delivered via Shiply for quite a decent price and it arrived on the drive on Wednesday but, due to the half term holidays and chaos with the kids, I had to wait unit yesterday afternoon for a drive......

[mikegamble]

After not being touched since it arrived, I was just hoping that it started so, I was pleased when she started first flick of the switch.
However, I noticed that the ABS light remained on and there was a squeak/whine from one of the belts.
Everything else seemed fine and I did a trip to Falmouth and back, just under 50 miles, to see how she went.

After pulling off and reaching speed, the ABS light went off but, every time I applied the brakes, the brake warning came on and there was also a hydraulic whine/noise so I’m guessing that there are a few braking issues that need addressing?

Apart from that, everything else seemed fine apart from a vibration around 30mph but, maybe the wheels need balancing, I noted the central locking doesn’t seem to work on the rear doors and they remained locked until manually opened and the aerial is stuck.

Not bad all in all!!

[donkeyotty]

He does mention the ABS warning light on the listing.

[mikegamble]

It mentioned the brake pedal - warning light coming on.
TBH I’m pretty happy with it, I always expect a few issues when buying an older car.
I’m also loving the colour coded sheepskin rugs!!

[mikegamble]

A couple of pictures...

[naki_k]

Am glad you are pleased with it.
I suspect it’s probably had very little use over the years, so getting everything moving again may well iron out some gremlins.
Of course a full service is the best way to start ownership too. It takes away many of the variables/ what ifs. Maybes our of the equation.

If the brake light comes on when you press it, check the Brake pads/ wears sensors.

[naki_k]

Renew the brake fluid too. You may find that helps get the brake pressure up, to stop the pump running.
Check the flexible hoses too for any bulging under pressure.

[mikegamble]

I think I’m going to book it in with my local garage for a quick fettle and service and to see if there’s anything else pressing and then I’ll have a lot more confidence in some longer runs.

I’ve just been ploughing through the history/paperwork. It appears the first owner was slightly more upmarket than myself......

[naki_k]

I think I’m going to book it in with my local garage for a quick fettle and service and to see if there’s anything else pressing and then I’ll have a lot more confidence in some longer runs.

I’ve just been ploughing through the history/paperwork. It appears the first owner was slightly more upmarket than myself......

That’s a very nice touch.
I bet they would be impressed if you turned up there in the car, assuming the Viscount is still around?

https://www.hagleyhall.com/

[mikegamble]

I may pop in for a cuppa. Maybe a scone as well......