I am changing my timing and would like to know if I really need tool 303-532 to set the timing? I know I need the camshaft locking tool 303-530 but why the 303-532?

 

When I did mine, I didn't think the tool was totally necessary either until I got the car apart. But I was sure glad I had it when I started the job.

The tool, with a breaker bar attached to it, attaches to the holes in the sprocket. It let's you put opposite pressure on the sprocket while you apply opposite pressure on the sprocket bolt - to remove or install the bolt.

The sprocket bolt is torqued really tight, so in addition to the tool I'm happy I also had a large torque wrench to tighten it up properly when finishing the job. The ball ended allen socket is also another must have for getting that bolt on/off if you're not removing the front timing cover.

 

Depends on the job.

If you are doing only the upper tensioners with no other problems and using the ziptie method, then no.

 

Can you tell me what the zip tie method is?

 

The zip-tie method secures the timing chain to the camshafts and then you lift the exhaust cam up enough to remove and replace the secondary tensioner. The sprockets are not removed at all. If you do a search of this and/or the XK8 forum you will find tons of information on this method. Just be sure to position the exhaust cam so that there is no valve spring tension on the exhaust cam before you remove the caps

 

I have the Jaguar factory tool but I like my home made tool better.

It is double sided so it fits better in different positions of the sprocket.

A piece of steel and a hole saw to cut the round part where the large sprocket washer goes. Just weld in some 5/16" or 8mm round stock for pegs.

You can weld a socket to the metal for a break-over bar or just use an open end wrench like I do.

bob gauff

 

Thanks for all the information. I decided to purchase the tool set. I wanted to make sure the job is done correctly.