Torsion Bar Reaction Plate

Peter there are 2 I know of here in the US

That would be a seriously mutilated hand methinks.... :-)

How many 4.2 Series 3s do you think ever escaped from Browns Lane? I'm guessing 2-3 max, notwithstanding they did a catalogue page for them initially.

I know a US one returned to the UK (a white 2+2 I think) but that's the only one I've ever seen photos of in the wild as 'hard' evidence. Other photos were of a car on test in the factory IIRC. Do you know of any others?

But yes, the frames and front suspension are pure cam-adjustable Series 3 on that car(s).

Peter you are correct on the V12s and the hand full of Series 3 XK engined cars.

Sort of, George.

Jaguar went back to an adjustable factory mechanism in 1971, for the Series 3 E-type. Maybe they were worried the 80lbs heavier engine would cause sag?

Hi Charles,
I work in a rest. shop and we have removed 2 adj. reaction plates and replaced them with the original plates. Both were weak and twisting due to the stress - one was cracked on the verge of failure. They were not the same, so different manufacture. We don't know who made either one, so XK's might make a stronger one.

I'd say the original plate works fine unless you're racing and have to re-adjust for different track lay-outs.

Phil.

Charles a lot of folks have tried the plate in its original and revised versions. Some swear by it but my impression from what I have read is that most find it as frustrating as the original equipment. I have removed and replaced the reaction plate on many E-Types. While I will admit the first one I tackled was very tough they get easier. As far as adjustments you do not gain any range with the adjustable. It simply provides fine adjustment IF you did not set up the torsion bars correctly or worse if they are weak. Jaguar was very aware that torsion bars could be made adjustable--they made them that way on the 120,140,150 and all sedans of the 50s (3.4 and 2.4 saloon excluded) and saw no reason to do so on the E. Best of luck.