After reading up and doing some research on the timing chain issues these cars have I've become somewhat paranoid, in all honesty. I read the DIY post on the forum and it talked about a rattling noise coming from the front of the engine. My engine right now does make a rattling noise, but only when it reaches the higher RPM range. Is this noise something to be concerned about? Or is this just more supercharger/engine noise? (I never heard a supercharger until owning this car)

I'm sure this question and topic has been talked about before, but I'd rather ask a silly question then have a blown engine on the side of the road. The X308 is too elegant to deserve that. As this car is my daily driver, I hope to resolve this sooner than later.

 

Can you post a video on youtube and link to it here?

It would be helpful to have more specific info about that rattling sound.

 

Of course, I could do that. I don't have any fancy recording equipment, but I'm sure my phone's camera will suffice. I get off work close to 5pm PST, therefore I won't be able to edit a link in until then.

 

It is not paranoia if you have a real threat! Which you do, if the tensioners have not been changed.

 

Doing my secondary today, drivers side. One bank at a time.

 

Mine have already been replaced by the old owner, at least the drivers side. (US) I wish they would have provided this info on purchase. Looks like I will do the gaskets and plugs while I am in there. I will check the other side too. Reason I am doing gaskets is the sealant has pulled the gasket away from the cover. Anyway good news.

 

Better safe than sorry, I guess!

 

Just finished the other side. Yep, both sides have the updated tensioners. COOL. Now I have to return the new set I just bought. I did replace all the gaskets though that came with the kit and replaced the plugs too. I feel better already.

 

Having dealt with the tensioner issue on a few 98-2001 XJ8 and XJR's I bought and sold in the last few years. I will say to anyone buying one unless the previous owner has written proof of them being changed along with the old original ones the first thing I would do is pull the valve covers and check them. Checking them on an XKR is a little more work but that's a lot cheaper than an engine. Replacing them isn't a huge deal if your hands on and have some patience along with some of the how too pics and videos that are posted on the internet.