I went to see a 2000 XJ8 today and while it has only 78k on the clock as well as a rebuilt tranny(2006) and dealer replaced timing gear (near catastrophic failure) as well as all the usual diddly bits replaced.

It is a 5 numeral vin car manufactured in December of 2000 so I think this means a steel lined block.

Other than needing rear shocks and four new tires all the other issues seem to be cosmetic and minor at that.

The throttle body looked to have been cleaned which is no big deal I think if the oil in the throttle body in the photo below is normal.

Also is the other photo of the air flow sensor normal?

Another question is how much if any of the stock exhaust stainless. This car looks to have regular steel exhaust.







Thanks for all your help and expertise.

Eric

 

Oh and how quiet should it be right in the center at the top of get engine.

I'm guessing what I hear is the injectors but maybe not.

Thanks

Eric

 

How smooth is the idle? That is what I look for in a good running engine- any bicycle chain noises would be tensioners, but the motor can make a little noise as long as I do not hear it in the cabin. Oil in the intake (a little) is normal.

Is this one in OC, SD or LA? If you post the ad and/or more pictures I may be able to spot good/bad points, I have purchased 4 in the last 1.5 years.

Has it been sitting for awhile? I see cobwebs.

 

The car is in Palm Springs. Friend of a friend.

Idle is very smooth and the sound I speak of is more like a tict tict. Mechanical ticking or like I said injectors actuating. I would imagine valve lifters wouldn't make sound right in the center of the top of the valley.

Eric