XK query

Sir,

I hope that someone may be able to help me with information about a right-hand-drive Jaguar XK 140, UPX 939, first registered on March 25 1956.

It is fitted with the Special Equipment listed by Jaguar at that time, and also has many optional extras fitted.

It is believed to have belonged to the late Betty Haig, who may have used it when it was brought back to this country. It is thought to have been sold by an unknown garage to a Mr NHJ Main. It is known that he used it for a short while, as it went back to Jaguar for an overhaul and the fitting of 2″ SU carbs, which still remain. Shortly afterwards he purchased an E-type, and the XK has not been used since that time. Up until 1990 it had spent 13 years of its life languishing in a field, which meant that the body was in a very sad state. The engine/ transmission and chassis had remained in quite good condition and these items are now fully restored to concours condition. The body has now also been restored and, where possible, the original panels have been used. It is presently awaiting trimmings.

The DVLC has only been able to produce a continuation log book from 1961 on. Apart from the information from Jaguar that all the numbers tie up and the colour is correct, letters to Henlys of London have drawn a blank. Although they sold it, they have no record as to whom. Letters to the Jaguar Owners’ Club and others have proved fruitless so far.

I would be most grateful if someone could advise me as to what direction I should take to pursue the early history of this vehicle. Is it possible that someone’s archives contain references to Betty Haig and her XKI40, or could someone put me in touch with some of her peers, who might be able to help in this matter?

Dave Varney, Betchworth, Surrey.

Relevant information will be forwarded — Ed.