Hi guys,
I'm having trouble keeping track of which issues to look for in which model years. One car I'm looking at is an '02 XK8.

The Nikasil liners are eliminated by this model year, correct?
Please give a few ket word refresher on what issues to look at.
I know one is plastic timing chain tensioner, true?
Transmission stuff?
Other stuff?
-Thanks.

 

Nikasil issue is gone by 2002. Plastic tensioners may vary depending on when engine was made (do not go by date of car's manufacture). They switched sometime in fall of '02 I think. Best to look.

Go to the stickies on the main XK8/R forum page. There is a DIY sticky that has several links on what to look for in these models.

 

Typhoon, where are you looking? Rust can be a problem and all the aluminum parts in the suspension oxidize in the salty conditions, making it very difficult, if not impossible to rebuild and replace bushing and bolts.
Just a observation. If they are stored for the winter, much better, in your area.


Wayne

 

Thanks for the input!
BTW, another question....
Do the x100 XKR and XK8 have the same suspension? in photos the XKR seems to sit a little lower, especially in the rear.

 

typhoon, I was waiting on someone else with more knowledge to give you an answer, but here goes my observation. The spring rate and height are different for a start.
Up grading the suspension started later, someone else will have to give you that info.
Are the differences not in the information section at the beginning of the forum.


Wayne

 

The XK8 and XKR models have the same ride height, but they do have different spring rates. There is even a difference in spring rates between the coupes and convertibles. The XKRs had suspension upgrades.

Regardless of model, they are designed to sit mostly level if stock. A higher rear end (usually really a lower front end) means something is off.

They are noted for front end wear, especially the upper shock mounts. Wear here will lower the front ride height. On an '02 model, you have to assume there are some rubber suspension bits that are tired and depending on mileage, the springs may be weak.

Without looking it up, I believe the ride height should be 15.74 inches measured from center of hub to bottom of the wheel arch at the 12 o'clock position for all four wheels.

 

Thanks #4.
Good info, and makes sense about likely the front sagging.
I'll keep that in mind.
I'm in no hurry to pull the trigger and am enjoying the expertise of you all.

 

Do you mean to the apex of the wheel arch?

 

Yes he does. The highest point on the curvature.