Hi folks, I was wondering could you possibly give me some advice. I currently own 2 x 2004 jaguar xtype .. One is my main run around sporting 110k miles on the clock, the other I bought cheap with 210k miles on the clock, basically for parts and so forth. I have been striping the one with big mileage basically to get myself familarised with this engine and its parts.

When I came across the erg valve I noticed the diameter of the hole had decreased by50%! This got me wondering about my main run around. I've been doing some research online about removing the erg valve completely from her as I don't like the fact it is partially smokey at low revs or when I put the boot down. When revved it's fine, only seems to be a little smokey when overtaking or accelerating hard. I have guessed it might use more mpg, this I can deal with as it's quite gentle on my pocket as is. I like the fact on the other hand it might be a little sharper and breathe easier.

One of my questions is, when using the blanking plate, do I use the one with the hole in it to fool the car into thinking the erg valve is still running ok. Or do I use the complete blanking plate and totally restrict the air. Yes I kinda know the pros and cons, but basically I don't want the hassle of having any lights coming on, on the dash or having to get the fault fixed every so often.

My 2nd question is, my clutch has very long travel before it actually starts to bite. I'm guessing this is because the pressure plate is now worn and needs replaced.. Generally the clutch works as it should until I get into third gear. When I accellerate hard I can definitely feel the clutch slip, if I'm in 5th and do the same it slips even easier..say 70mph , I put the foot down and bada bing she starts to slip.. I will ultimately change the clutch no doubt but thought it might need bleeding or so on. It has an hydraulic clutch which bleeds itself, so I'm guessing that's ruled out, then I got thinking maybe it was something o do with the slave.

I am a complete novice , but feel super confident about doing all the work myself , however I don't want it costing me an arm and a leg. I've had the main run around 6mths now and I treat her well. New fuel filters, air filters, oil filters, oil disks and pads. What ever she needs I will try and please. I want this wagon to last me as it's very clean, has a lovely full black leather interior, nice black walnut kinda trim etc real head turner..

Any Advice would be great. IVe never used a forum before so be gentle. :-) best regards

Edited by Avant on 23/04/2015 at 15:25