Hi guys. I am new to the forum but would like to enlist some help. I have anXJ8 which has been superb until last night when it refused to start, It just turns over without a hint of firing. I have checked stuff like fuses but am at a bit of a loss. Could it be the key? do they have a battery inside? has anybody any ideas? thanks Pete

 

Pete, did you go on a short trip before the no start event? reason being, there's an issue with cylinder wash where loss of compression leads to no start.

It's solved by removing the plugs and adding a very small amount of engine oil into the bores and/or leaving the plugs out so the fuel evaporates. Drying and installing plugs, then pushing the gas pedal to the floor (the engine control module cuts fuel delivery) or remove the fuel pump fuse - crank it over to let the oil coat the cylinder bores and piston rings, this builds compression back up. Then go for a normal start.

I'm sure others will help with the process.

Welcome to the forum!

 

sean. many thanks for the info and yes I did a small trip of about two miles and then the car didnt move for over a week. So will give your suggestion a try. rgds Pete

 

This might help in getting the car started Nikasil No Start Cylinder Washing Also a little information to understand the situation Jaguar Nikasil & Sulfur The Sulfur information may not apply now but understanding why the no start takes place will.

 

Guys Thanks for your replies but we still have a dead jag!! it turns over fine, I have had the plugs out they were dry. However there is a smell of petrol coming out the exhausts so the injectors must be working. I think i have lost the spark!!!Where do I go from here?? regards Pete

 

The only way to correctly check the fuel it to use a pressure gauge at the schrader valve. Jaguar fuel pressure testing As for the spark you need to check your fuses to see that none are blown. Do you have any OBDII codes? If your car has fuel and spark you may have a problem with cylinder washing and the link in my other post will guide you along to get it started.

 

If the plugs are dry then they are firing! Add the oil to each cylinder as suggested and try to start it again. Sounds like classic cylinder wash to me.
Vector

 

Guys thanks very much for all your help. I have never heard of this in all the years I have been involved with race engines and other jags etc etc. Yes it filled the whole street with smoke but i had warned the neighbours not to phone the fire department!!! The Jag is alive and kicking again. Many many thanks.best regards Pete

 

Guys.
Having experienced cylinder wash for the first time and the time it takes to do all the work to oil the bores etc. I remembered that my race car transporter always had to be started with "easy start" this is an ether spray that is sprayed into the air intake for a few seconds. The lorry always started by this method and I wondered if anyone thinks this would start the jag engine if this happens again. I was cautious to use it this time as i wasnt sure if it would damage the engine, so I used the advice given to me by you guys. What does anyone think, is it a quick fix? regards Pete

 

I would be slightly concerned about possibly damaging the Nikasil with ether.

 

If the problem is lack of compression, I don't think ether would help..?

 

Guys. got over the dreaded cylinder wash a week ago. Went to go out in the car today and the water pump is leaking. Think its trying to tell me something??? I dont want a scrapyard replacement. Where is the best to purchase a new one. dont forget I am in spain. I can get one broght over from the uk. best regards Pete