Is it possible to change an 2001 XJ8 water pump without draining the entire cooling system since the water pump sits so high on the engine? I will be changing serpentine belt so I'm not worried about contamination of the belt. Gasket blew at the lower left hand mounting bolt and is leaking heavily.

Any recommendations on a brand of pump? I'm reading plastic vs. metal impeller and concerned if I go with an AC Delco which I believe is metal.

 

Hello all, I am replacing my water pump and serpentine belt on my wife 2001 XJ8 Jaguar, 4.0 engine. I went with the AC Delco pump P/N 252-800 with O ring and aluminum gasket and Dayco belt.

My question is this. What is the proper Jaguar procedure for dumping and refilling the system? I will be using the Long Life Orange Dex-Cool as recommended on the cars placard.

Thank you!

 

I used AC Delco (second time) after the Airtex leaked. The refilling the cooling system is straight forward. Small petcock on lower, left, and aft side of the radiator. Open the reservoir and let drain. Refill from the reservoir. burp the hoses every now and then until it seems full, start it up and let it warm up, feel the upper hose to check for TST opening, air will slowly bleed out, refill some more.

DO NOT lean on those plastic hoses, they are super fragile. I think there are YouTubes on the whole process. Might want to change out the hoses at the same time. The plastic cross over pipe (with temperature sensor) is probably badly corroded and ready to crumble, might as well change it too.

Run some searches on changing the thermostat and housing: probably needs renewal as well. Also the short stub hose (for sure, if it is bulging).