I'm hoping to find some assistance with a persistent P1396 Trouble Code.
I know it's a problem with the left bank VVT and so far I have changed the oil and filter, checked operation of the solenoid and the wiring and connector.
I also checked the camshaft position reluctor on the rear of the cam and it's aligned properly. I would like some help finding out more about the "o" rings.
I see the large one that seals the body of the solenoid when it's installed on the opening but I don't see an other "o" rings. Does anyone have an exploded view that shows the "o" rings and their position, or any other suggestions? The car runs great, but I can clear the code and if I don't let the engine warn up for a minute or two, the light comes back on after I take off and drive a couple hundred feet. If I do let it warm up the light will not come on, and I can drive all day with no CEL.
Thanks very much,
Dave B.

 

There are seals on the oil inlet to the intake cam helical unit. They are a split overlap type seal but the front cover must be removed to access the parts.

I think there are 'O'rings from the head to that oil transfer unit that supplies oil to the intake cam helical adjuster.

The only other 'O'rings are the VVT actuator seals.

I assume you read TSB 303-08 for the reluctor alignment.

You might try a thicker or thinner oil viscosity or a different type or brand of oil to see if anything changes???? Maybe a different oil filter brand????

I had a VVT DTC on one of my AJ27 XJ8s so I put 10W40 synthetic for the Summer and it cured the fault. The other XJ8 is happy with 5W30 all year.

bob gauff

 

Thanks Motorcarman,
I put 10W-40W in at the last oil change and my problem started shortly after.
I'm going to go back to 5W-30W and see if that cures it.
I hope so since everything else checks out okay.

 

I wanted to do a follow-up to my P1396 Trouble Code.
I checked and double checked the wiring and connector to the VVT Solenoid (left bank)
I also checked the Reluctor position on the rear of the cam.
All was well.
I decided to change back to 5W 30W Castrol Edge full synthetic and switch from a Fram to a Purolator PL15317 Oil Filter.
(I had gone to 10W-40W because of the high milage on the car)
The result is, no more CEL at any time.
I'm a happy guy!
Thank you Motorcarman for your excellent suggestions.
Dave B.