Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1972 Jaguar xj6, rear wheel bearings, lower ball joints

Question
I am looking at buying a 1972 Jaguar XJ6.  Its got a 8 cyl. chevy engine in it that some previous owner put in.  Transmission is new, A/C has just been repaired, paint is perfect, it seems to run really well. Current owner wants $5000 for it.  Is this a fair price?  What are repairs like for older jags?  Am I crazy to want to buy this car?

Answer
Hi Virginia,

A V-8 Chevy engine conversion is a common conversion and usually works well. The things you should have checked by a trusted mechanic are the normal stuff needed to be checked on most 1972 cars. Plus upper and lower ball joints on the front and the lower rear trunion bearings (on the lower pivot of the large aluminum housing that supports the rear wheel bearings). Jaguars are hard on brakes so have the front and rear brakes checked. Check wheel bearings front and rear. The universal joints need checking also. Many parts for the Jaguar can be purchased at most auto parts stores like bearings and universal joints and even ball joints. Some Jaguar dealers will try to locate "aftermarket" parts for you if you ask. There are many aftermarket parts companies making parts for Jaguar so you are not forced to buy genuine Jag parts all the time.
On the interior, the head liner and the leather seats usually go first, then the wood on the dash.

As for the price, it will depend on the condition. Get an experienced body shop to look at the car to make sure it is not a rust bucket that has been covered with bondo and painted to look good, this is very important.
It would have to be a "No rust/no bondo" body and a nice interior and everything working to bring $5000 around here.

I hope this helps,
HMF