It wasn't loose with the old, broken tensioner. So I don't think that it is worn too badly. But maybe I am wrong.

 

maybe it really is a broken (new) tensioner. does anyone have the new tensioner (right hand side) and could mesure its length with the pin removed. The slipper that moves doesn't reach the chain at all right now

 

It has been 20 months since I did mine; however, from your picture it looks like you are in good shape. I think I had about that amount of slack on the right side. But I agree, it is time for one the pros to weigh in.

 

Going back to your first post, about the length of the bolts.
Not sure you used the shorter bolts on installation or not.
Might this be a lead to the problem?

E.

 

Yes, I did use shorter bolts

 

Maybe pull the fuel pump relays (so it does not get fuel to start) and turn it over with the starter; the tensioner will pump up under oil pressure and the slack will go away until it bleeds down again. Cover head with towel because oil will blow, and listen for mechanical interference (pistons hitting valves).

But I think you are okay.

 

I think I'll do it like you said.

Thank you for your help, guys

 

Are you sure that you have the right tensioner?

As pointed out earlier, there is a RHS and LHS tensioner. Right is to your right when
in the driver seat.

The letter R or L will be stamped on the tensioner body.

In recent months, there seems to have been a shortage of one side or the other.
I forget which.

Some sellers are shipping two of the same to avoid losing the sale.
They should know better.

In fact, a few years ago Christoper's shipped me two for the same side in a 'kit'.

 

I think plums is right! I hope you haven't crashed the valves yet


You know, looking at the picture in Parts Geek, the tensioner they show looks like what I remember mine looking like. I don't know if it is the perspective, but I am not sure it matches yours. Do you have the spring compressed all the way in your photo?

Have a better look at http://www.partsgeek.com/mmparts/tim...aguar/xj8.html

 

There are multiple threads where people have taken pictures with the
tensioners in place.

Time to go use search.

 

It is the right tensioner. The pictures of the Installed tensioner I found in different threads are telling me, that mine was installed properly. I risked to start the engine. It rattled for a quater of a second but now everything sounds fine and smooth.

 

Glad you got it right. Now, do the other side if it is not yet done!