I have one last issue with my 03 XJ8 befor I can get it passed inspection.
I need to replace the front right lower ball joint. I have read thru recent posts on this and my local tech does not want to replace just the ball joint. They dont want to press in/out! So I have fount this control arm at autoparts warehouse
http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/de...1&apwid8mbyBLX

Does anyone know if this is ok? It seams that this would be easier to instal but I dont know if it would be wise to go with this aftermarket. I am planning on having this car for a long time. Does anyone have any other sources or suggestions?

 

Is your car the steel or aluminium body ? The changeover was 2003, and the suspension may be different on the two cars. The URL reference in your post is to a part for a steel-bodied XJ8 (1998-2003). Incidentally, even though its an after-market supplier, the part is probably from the original manufacturer. Here in the UK, like in the US, you don't always need to go to a Jag agent for parts, they mark them up too much.

 

I have the steel body, build year is 02. Thanks

 

Hi Jaxter

So that is the right part, then. I would buy it with confidence but it IS $200 !

You could check out SNG Barratt USA, an exclusively Jaguar parts dealer. They have the actual genuine Lemforder ball joint for pressing in your existing arm at just under $40 and a pattern part for half that ! Of course you will have to pay to have this fitted, whereas the arm and ball joint is a straight bolt-on job. Its a balance between labour and parts costs really. If I was doing it myself, I would buy just the ball joint as my time is free.

 

Thanks for the link Fraser. The Tech that I am using is unwilling to replace the ball joint this way so as time is an issue i would gladly pay to have the whole part put on. (Anyone know of a good Jag Tech on the eastern shore of MD?) I could machine any spacers needed as i have a pretty extensive machine shop at my disposal but no space to do the job inside and no access to a large press! This is the last need for inspection. Brakes that I allowed budget for passed but only just so thats a project to look forward too. In the meen time i need it on the road.