I was really hoping that my engine would make it to 300,000 miles, but looks like it will not. Appears that engine pressure is leaking through head gasket into cooling system, and with 283,000 miles on the engine, replacing the gaskets would likely just set off a cascade of new problems.

The only source I had found for a rebuilt engine (also suggested on this forum) is British Parts International in Houston. They quoted me a shocking $6,500 plus shipping (new engine and core) for a rebuilt engine (with original engine mileage unspecified).

Used engines (not rebuilt) are all over the internet at around $2,000, but I would feel better dropping a newly rebuilt engine so that I don't have to do this again in two years!

Does anyone have sage advice for:
1. Alternate sources for a rebuilt engine (2001 XJ8, VIN "C" eighth digit)
2. Advice for expensive rebuilt versus a cheap used engine (not rebuilt) from salvage?
3. Or am I wrong and I should just replace gaskets in old engine?

THANKS

Howard

 

The price quoted for a properly refurbished engine at 6500$US is not unreasonable.

If you choose a used engine, you must make sure it has the primary and secondary timing chains, guides and tensioners uprated to the latest design prior to fitting it to the vehicle.

The nikasil coating on the cylinder walls of the early 4.0 litre units is very durable, so you may be able to remove the heads and measure the cylinder bores for wear along with other parts prior to deciding on the best course.

One option you also have available is to find and purchase another vehicle with less miles.

 

Check the compression in the cylinders other than the one(s) leaking: if good enough, replace the head gasket and go.

 

No.3 Replace the head gaskets with the updated multi layer parts and as long as everything is clean going back there shouldn't be an issue. These engines are good for double your mileage if serviced correctly.