Hi members,

I've been reading all the informative posts, and figured I'd better join the fray. I just purchased a very clean 1999 XJ8...practically mint inside and out, owned by an older couple, but it does have 131K miles. SO, I've ordered new tensioners in case they have to be changed when we do the valve cover gaskets. (I went to check the plugs, and found some oil in the hole).
Unfortunately, the man had passed away, and his wife did not know if the tensioners had been changed. According to the service places I called, via car fax and receipts, including Jag of Sacramento, it does have a new thermostat and water pump. I've owned an inherited '88 XJ6 for 6 years but saw this XJ8 and had to have it. I've put lots of new parts into the XJ6, but space limitations might force a sale. The XJ6 got me used to the "feel" of the big Jags, and I appreciate it's quieter, more comfortable ride compared to my wife's Accord. Back in college, I had an MGB and a fast MGC roadster.

After reading many posts on the tensioners, I'm debating where to do the zip-tie/lift cam method or rent some tools. With 131K, I'm also wondering about changing the timing chains. Then, of course, some will say it's best to do all the tensioners given the mileage. (this would be more of a shop job). The engine is very quiet, runs great. I'm hoping they have been changed already, but given the service history, I don't think so. I hate spend the $ to do everything, but the secondaries should be changed, regardless.
Thanks to the members who have posted the great pictorials and instructions. Despite all the timing worries mentioned regarding the zip tie method, I haven't found any members complaining about problems afterwards...although the Jag tech members really favor the tool method. I'm tempted to rent the tools, we'll see. Do any Nor Cal members know of a good Jag shop, if I need one.? (besides Stewarts).
Thanks

 

Welcome to the forum Billyfair,

Great Intro. I can see you've done your research and already know your way around here so no need for links to the X308 tech section or the US Western Region.

You could always lift the cam covers to check exactly what is fitted and then make your decision......

Remember to add vehicle details to your Signature to help others to give relevant advice. Go to the User CP button on the left of the top menu bar, then Settings & Options under Your Control Panel. Select Edit Signature and enter the details.

Enjoy the XJ8 and the forum.

Graham

 

Welcome to the forum First Billyfair,

Good to have you with us.
Enjoy the forum.

If you haven't already done so you should add your car details to your signature to help others to help you.

 

Hi Billyfair & welcome aboard Jaguarforums ....... good to have you here with us


Any useful site information you may need such as how to post pictures, edit signatures, add videos,
use the search facility etc, can be found here within the following link Helpful_information

Please also take the time to check out the regional section for your area!
There are lots of members local to you with the same interests with info on local dealers and possible meets.
Regional - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum


I've manually upgraded you to Full forum access so you can better view the site and all its features

Please Jump on in and enjoy the site.................

 

welcome to the forums, im sure ill see you in the X308 section