I need to remove the front cross member. I read that behind the front wheels, below the A pillar is the place to support the car, because obviously I can’t use the cross member.

But, I’ve got rust.

 

 

I did do a search but it came up blank, especially for the XJS body. Apologies if this has been covered before, if it has, could someone please direct me? Thanks team.

 

Yep, I think you're right not to rely on that bit

 

 

Rust?...That's your coupe? I hope it's parts XJS.

Few ideas.

Get a 4x6 and cut it to about 5 feet and put it accross just behind the rusted area. Jack up the board / car in the center and place jackstands on the ends. Use two 2x6's and screw them together if necessary to make a 4x6. This will allow you to lower and move the front sub frame foward.

Put the jack under the front frame rail bolt passages. It will capture jak head nicely and be secure. This will force you to remove the sub frame out...back a bit and out the side becasue the jack stands will be in the way.

If the engine is out just jack it up by lower radiator support with a 36inch 2x4

 

 

Not normally recommended and given the rust elsehere in that car there is a good chance the radiator support is no more than a thin veneer.

 

Sounds like the way to go. You can also support the engine weight with a hoist, which helps.

 

Thanks for the advice.

I ended up putting jack stands just in front of the front cross member bolt passages, and some timber across the width of the car under A pillar area. Job done.