Jaguar Repair: 1986 XJ6 Ignition Question, volt meter, starter relay

Question
I picked up an 86 XJ6 Vandan Plas 4.2L yesterday. It started yesterday but today (after rain overnight) cannot get it started. Changed spark plugs, cleaned distributor and battery charging right now. Question is: When I tried to start it I got a high pitched tone when I turned the key in the ignition. Check lights for oil, brake and battery came on then went out except for the battery light. After 10-15 seconds the tone stopped. Engine turned over regularly but didn't catch. Is the tone normal?

Answer
Hi Edward,
The XJ-6 sounds like all cars when you start one. I have no idea what sound you are hearing but you can go through a standard procedure in diagnosis to find out why it don't start.

If it spins the engine over, the starter relay is working ok.

When you turn the key on, the center warning lights should come on. If they are not on, take a 12v test light or volt meter and check for power at the (+) side of the coil (white wires) with the key on.

If there is no power at the (+) side of the coil and the center warning lights are not on with the key in the ignition position then you have either a disconnected wire from the ignition switch or a failed ignition switch. The wire from the switch all the way to the coil and to the warning lights is a white wire.

let me know,
Howard