Good morning everyone,

My saga of replacing the front assembly of a 1992 Jaguar XJS continues and I thought it would be a good time (with it removed) to replace gaskets on pans.

This morning I dropped the oil plan and to my disappointment found the following piece sitting in the centre of the pan (see picture).

It isn't very big, appears to fit together but is missing parts and I'm pretty sure it is rubber. I suspect it is rubber because I can cut it with a knife (though it is hard) and if I take sand paper to it, I can rough it up. That said, I may just be "hoping" it is rubber and not metal but regardless, I know that it shouldn't be in my oil pan.

Several quick points for context. I bought the car 4 months ago as a non-runner. Replaced a fuel relay and the car ran just fine (in the garage stationary) with a significant oil leak from the oil cooler (which is my next task). I can't think of anything else to say. I'm hoping that someone may have insight as to: 1) What part is this? 2) Is this an indicator of catastrophic engine failure? 3) If not catastrophic, what should I do about the missing pieces?

Any insight is appreciated.

Stephen

These pieces appear to form part of a larger one that may be circular in diametre. I believe it is hardened rubber but I can't be 100% sure. Engine ran fine during a brief trial.

 

Might be......

There's a rubber plug in the timing cover.

Someone might've replaced the rubber plug. What you're seeing might be the remnants of the old plug which fell into the engine.....likely to the chagrin of whoever was doing the job

Cheers
DD

 

Doug,

Thanks for the quick response and here's hoping. I'm going to research those plugs and see if I can match images.

Stephen

 

Definitely rubber (it melts with flame).

 

Its the remains of that plug.

Found many over the years, lost a few myself,

Too big to do anything but drown in oil.

 

AND

While you and the kids are that far into it.

Drop the alloy Sandwich plate, and replace the o/rings on the oil pump suction and supply pipes. They be old, and leak, and its easier now than in 6 months time.

 

Great suggestion. Thanks Grant!