Well after 12-years, my 99 XJ8 developed a rapid enough oil problem that I missed it until a little knocking noise told me I had a problem. I could kick myself -- oil was 3-quarts low. The car has always been dealer maintained according to Jaguar's recommended maintenance schedule and is otherwise in great shape at 96,000 miles -- absolutely everything works, headliner has been replaced, interior is immaculate except for wear on the drivers seat from getting in and out so many times. Just from the sound, my mechanic guesses that it could be a timing chain problem, but more likely a cylinder wall wear (Nikasil) or rod bearing problem that will be cheaper to fix by replacing the engine. I am now trying to decide whether to put a used engine in it for around $6,000 installed, or let it go. I'd be interested in hearing what others would do under the circumstances.

 

You could go either way. Jaguars depreciate steeply, so you could get a 2002 or 2003 for maybe not much more than $10K if you are lucky.

 

If I was to guess at costs, I would think $2500 for a used engine and 20 hours MAX for labor. I get $70 per hour at my shop so with some extra for gaskets, fluids and a few broken bolts you might be looking at $4000 to $4500. $6000 sounds a bit high unless the engine was a reman or rebuilt unit with a good warranty!!!

Just my opinion.

bob gauff

 

What a bummer. Very sorry to hear that. I wouldn't spend a whole lot of money on it. Right now it's a buyers market. There are some pretty good deals out there but I sure know how hard it is to give up the ole girl. I got a 2 year old XJR with 11K on it for less that half of the sticker. Good luck on your choice.

 

I would say part it out (Plenty of buyers on here looking for part). Take the moeny you collect and buy a newer model. Even though folks are holding onto their "used" cars longer, higher maintenance vehicles seem to be let go sooner because of operating costs.

 

Would you describe this knocking sound?
Some posts have tracked a similar noise to the VVT units. Increasing the engine oil viscosity seems to have helped.

Dan

 

I'm not sure of the advice you've been given, nikasil bores' wear less than steel, a lot less, so if still running well no problem there.

Secondary timing chain tensioners are a common fault. Have a search on here about it.

If you've run the car without oil, it's a safe guess to mention lower bearings.

Does the knock come from the top or bottom of the engine?

Where was the oil leak?

I'd recommend not running the car further until you decide on its future.

Also try and find a good independent Jag specialist in your area/state that will give you prices on the tensioner job/short motor exchange.

 

Like Dan & Sean are suggesting I would do a little more checking before you throw in the towel. You can pick up a mechanics stethoscope http://www.harborfreight.com/mechani...ope-41966.html and or you can go about it the old school way using a screwdriver or a hose to the ear. In most cases when changing the oil and starting after the drain and refill you will hear the momentary hammering if you have a bad bearing. For wrist pin and main baring I would put the car in gear foot on the brake and accelerate just a little to add stress on the engine and listen for hammering. I am in agreement that the Nikasil block is not your problem and I would look at the most common problems such as the vvt & chain tentioners. I do like the idea of using higher viscosity oil or add restore and see what takes place.

 

I do hope you find a lesser problem than you have outlined in your post, however the sad fact is that a 12 year old car on 96k is not worth a new engine. There are much newer Jaguars out there for the same money you would have to spend.

However, take some photos before you off-load for the memory of it

 

This is so true!