As you've read on a prior post, the engine miss is gone. Now with the engine running on all 8 the trans jerks out of 1st gear on normal acceleration and defaults to 2nd gear starts and a "trans fault" message displays. Had a trans shop confirm trans failed through codes that came up after I had erased them 2 days ago. Will get it back in a week with a rebuilt exchange unit from Peter Schmidt transmissions in the San Francisco bay area, 3 year warranty. I paid way less than $1000 for this extremely clean 103,000 mile car. New tires, newer updated guides and new battery done within the last year. Once done, Ill have a dependable 2000 XJ8. I'm selling the 99 BMW 740IL with unknown mileage and unknown timing chain guides to offset this expense. Wish me luck!

 

You'll be fine, as long as you know the confirmed "hot spots" w/ these & address them.

Welcome to the X308 clan !

 

As you can see in my signature, I had an 05 Super V/8 that a cop running a stop sign caused it to be totaled! I had researched prior to purchase all the "hot spots" and looked for an 04,05 to lessen the problems. This 2000 came out of nowhere and was so cheap I couldn't pass it up especially after seeing the guide replacement receipt. Once the BMW sells I'll be out of pocket around $2000. I think I can sleep at night then.

 

 

Transmission has been in a week now. Works great. Got it smogged today. No issues. All that's left is to resolder the ABS module to clear "traction control unavailable"

 

I think you're on the right track. I too made the change from a 740-series to an X308 and never looked back.

Just be sure the plastic timing chain tensioners have been replaced with metal parts, and same with the water pump. But being on this board, no doubt you already know that.

I'm not a wrench but because I live in the SF Bay Area, where Jags are numerous, I've got an honest, non-dealer Jag service specialist to look after me.\

Good luck with your car!f

 

Thanks John! I live in Stockton, not too far away. Once the ABS issue is resolved I think I'll have a fairly reliable XJ8. My 99 740 IL is parked across the street with a passenger air bag light on. It has been a great car over my 2 year ownership. Only major repair has been an alternator rebuild and a failed lower radiator hose. I have, unfortunately, only one Jag. independent shop in town. The other burned down about 2 months ago!