Greetings!
New to this forum, and new to Jaguar, though I've been around British sports cars most of my life. Always wanted a Jag. I've been reading a lot of posts about the XK8/XKR as I have been actively looking for one. Found and bought a 2001 XK8 convertible which is due to arrive tomorrow. Pretty exciting, that is until the seller told me I should be careful what I wish for! Seriously, though, he was a very nice older gentleman. The car is BRG with tan and has 39,000 miles. I know about the major problems from all the posts and internet searches I've done- mostly the Nikasil (which I've avoided) the hydraulic top hoses (were recently replaced by prevous owner) and of course the cam timing chain tensioners (these are original). I know the list goes on but theses seem to be the biggies.
The first question I have for forum is re: the cam chain tensioners. Will I be driving a time bomb?
I know there may be different opinions (or maybe not), but what about replacing only the the secondary tensioners? This seem to be much much less involved and if I understand what I've read, these are the ones that would introduce pistons to valves if they fail. I am really anxious to start driving the car of course.
Really glad to have this forum to go to and look forward to learning from all of you!

 

Welcome aboard Nickel.

 

Welcome to the forums.

 

Welcome to the forums Nickel,

There's two regular XK8 killers - failed tensioners or overheating. Regardless of mileage, I'd replace top tensioners and if the hoses are still original, replace them too.

It sounds like you've already found your way to the XK8/XKR forum so there's no need for a link to it from me. The 'HOW TO' thread at the top is a good place to start for information on regular issues. You can also use the US Lower Atlantic Region forum by following this link https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/u...r-atlantic-66/ to find other members in your region.

Please read the guidance for new members ( https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/n...ned-up-241802/ ) which answers many of the most frequent questions about getting started.

Enjoy the forums.

Graham

 

Welcome to the Forums.

I agree with Graham 100%. "Ticking time bomb" is soooo true.

A few down here have said "I will get to that", and then boom, too late.

Good luck.

 

Hello, Nickel,
Congratulations on your First Jaguar!
Welcome to the forums from ElinorB.
(';')

 

welcome to the forum - enjoy!!

 

Thanks for the warm welcoming from everyone. Pretty cars, all. Looking forward to this new automotive adventure.
I assume that further questions should be posted on the XK8/XKR forum now, and I will do that. Meantime, I will be searching for instructions on replacing the top timing chain tensioners, and then putting some miles on this beautiful car. I love to tinker, have tools, but looks like I'll be getting a few more tools to work on this.
Thanks again!
Nickel

 

YES - many members read the Intro's and several reply. However, once read few then return to them so subsequent technical questions should be posted in XK8/XKR forum.

Graham

 

Welcome to Jaguar Forums Nickel,

Good to have you with us.
Enjoy the forum.

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