Cyber3d,
I can assure you it's no "internet myth." as mine broke taking the timing chain with it. I was extremely lucky that I stopped the engine within about a quarter of a second once I heard the horrible sound and was spared further damage. My indie mechanic (not a Jaguar specialist) who works on all of my cars, did the tensioners, timing chains, gaskets, etc. He is located in Northridge in the valley. If you end up needing someone, PM me and I'll get you his info.
My 2002XKR now has 160,000 and purrs like the cat she's supposed to be.
Ted

 

Hahaha yes. touché.

 

I think I'm gonna opt for this one SNG Barratt - The Ultimate Jaguar Parts Specialist

since most of the gaskets were actually replaced with the inspection at the dealership.

 

I had the complete timing chain assembly replaced, new all-metal water pump and new aluminum thermostat housing for a little over $2000. Mostly labor (plus you need special tools for the chain installation). I did this all when I first bought the car...plus I had the radiator flushed all the hoses & belts replaced, the brake system purged and the tranny fluid and filter change. Total bill was $4k plus. I had all this done in central NJ where specialized labor is quite high.

 

The only thing that puts me off keeping my beautiful 99 XKR Coupe is the experience i've had with the three Jaguar Indies i've used in London UK - i don't want to go into too much details as i know at least one of them is easily offended and a bit of a (rhymes with banker..) S Landan Jabba .. i hear of better ones on the outskirts but it's leaving the car there - travelling back to pick it up etc. Thank-god for this forum or you'd be walking in blind and they are more than happy to take your money... There is a v good one near me but his bills make your eyes water...

 

Any info about which tool that is?

 

The factory specifies special tools for the Secondary Tensioner replacement job.

However, if the chains are not replaced, you can use the "Zip Tie" Method, and special tools are not required.

Search "Zip Tie" for more info.

 

Due to relatively little cost difference between the replacement part kits, and the hassle of taking it apart, I'd probably do the chains, everything.. You mean I'd have to check with Jaguar to figure out the tool required?

 

Jaguar Timing Tool | eBay

 

We had the ones done on our 97 xk8 before catastrophic engine fail. ...would have been 15 large
It cost 2700.00... Much less$$$
I am finding that there are a few dealers that have a "WE DONT WANT TO MAKE THE SALE DEPT"

What the heck happened to good service and if we want it ...give it to us....we'll pay for it
Just a rant
Cheers,
Andy

 

GAAAAA! I was just told by the shop I requested an estimate from, that I really didn't need to replace the plastic tensions (same as the original poster). Then they said 2500 to 3000 for just the secondary tensioners. Shall go elsewhere. Any recommendations in Northern Virginia?

 

$400 (price includes beer) I did it myself, and I'm a ham fisted, arthritic, semi-moron, computer geek.

I figured out a while ago I couldn't keep a jag if I didn't get dirty once in a while.

 

Joining the conversation a little late? I just completed this week, the secondary tensioners on my 2001 XK8 with appox 87000 miles. Purchased the cam cover gaskets (complete set) from Rockauto $ 52.00usd and new metal tensioners on ebay both for $79.00usd. A new set of sparkplugs and 4 hours of my time useing the zip tie method. The car actualy started and sounds, runs smooth ;-) Both plastic tensioners were cracked and inspection of timing chain and primary tensioners looked great with inspection light and mirrors. Hope this helps you decide, this forum and the advice found here is fantastic. Good luck let us know how you make out.

 

I still need to find a local shop. Disabled person here. I can do some things (it takes 3 times as long to do) but can't lift heavy stuff. Man, I'd love to work on the tensioners myself however.

 

my 99 xk8 had 48,000 when I bought it 5 years ago.after joining the forum and reading up on tensioner issues I checked them at 49,000,they were both cracked.