Im on the fence about this .after doing a lot of reading. I understand the issues with the tensioners and thermostat housing with the xj8 . I love my xjs with the 4.0 in line 6 plenty of power for me and initial thought id stay with that drive train. What are tech savy folks thoughts on buying one over the other. There seems to be a lot more to choose from on the xj8 market used but that might be for a good reason. What is the cost to have the short comings of the xj8 rectfied? And is it alway necessary as in not if but when? Currently looking to buy a 95-97 xj6 or possibly a 98 -03 xj8 id like too land under 6k if possible Thank you, jeff

I would consider the V8 timing chain upgrades an imperative. I'm not sure what the cost would be at a typical Jag shop. Several years ago I spoke with a guy who paid around $3500 parts and labor, as I recall.

A few months ago I was considering an XK8. Out of curiosity I called a nearby Jag specialist who quoted "about $6500" for the updated timing chain parts, water pump, thermostat housing, and (I think) cam covers).

The '95-97 XJ6s don't have that major "gotcha" factor. But, as good as they are, age and miles do eventually take a toll so be ready for some repairs....even if they're not a major as what you'd face with an early XJ8.

Or.....

Shop for a later XJ8 that already has the better parts. If I understand correctly that would be 2003 model year and most of 2002 model year.

The under $6000 price range you're shopping in is a little tricky. Nowadays that probably won't get you anything but a "decent-fair" example. You probably have to go higher if you want something really nice with good records.

Cheers
DD

So after 2003 the xj8 issues were resolved by Jaguar?

All AJV8 engines from 0108130000 onward have the improved timing system components from the factory.(engine date code NOT VIN or MY is the way to verify)

Previous engines need the updated parts to be reliable.
Most seem to at least have the secondaries done but not all.

No Normally Aspirated AJV8 has the aluminum thermostat housing from the factory, that is an aftermarket thing that is recommended.
4.0 XKR/XJR Jaguars already have an aluminum thermostat housing from the factory.

The ZF 5HP24 gearbox (especially forward drum) is still an issue no matter the MY.

There will be more X308 cars than X300 simply due to the 3 year manufacture run (X300) vs the 6 year run (X308).

thank you ,all good info

Ended up going with a 97 aj16 engine with 76 k picking it up next week and driving it 660 miles home. Fingers crossed ,bought a backup cps just in case

Well the search continues