Looks like it still has the plastic thermostat tower. OK, if no leaks, but the hose shows signs of internal pressure.'
It is ballooning and needs replaced. Be sure to get the crossover gaskets when ordering the aluminum tower and thermostat. Be sure to read up on the rear bolts and how to get them out. 8MM Crow foot works.

 

Seeing as how mine is a nikasil lined motor, I wouldn't pass on it personally just because of that. The way I heard it was that cars went in, got a compression test, and if it failed, it got a replacement engine. If it passed, you didnt get one and were basically told to drive on. Of course that was years ago, but still, it may be perfectly fine

 

motorcarman is the member who provided the information on liner damage a few years ago. I have no direct experience and should have mentioned that. Would such damage show immediately with a leakdown and or compression test, or would it take some time? I just don't know.

 

I found the engine number. 990720xxxx. So it definitely has Nikasil liners. Next step would be a compression/leak down test but I’m a little less eager for purchase. The car really is in nice shape with excellent paint, top and body. Interior a little worn. I wouldn’t mind the cost of tranny and tensioner upgrades but engine damage scares me. I’ll be mulling this one over. Thanks for the invaluable help to everyone for getting me this far and I’ll keep you informed on my progress

 

Your potential 2000 XK8 may have you seduced with its beautiful looks but a lot of the questions raised by the other Forum members, detailed above, haven’t been answered fully.

So if I was you, I would pass on it. Even as a home hobby DIY mechanic, not afraid to take on problems, the potential to do list, on this 2000 XK8 car, is a lot to take on.

Find a later model 2003+. So it may be more expensive but it will save you a lot of heart ache. Many of the previous X100 generations’ problems have been solved in the Gen3 model.

 

at $2k and its good color combo,ask owner if you can plug bad heater hose and fill it full of water and run it.bear in mind if car is in a cold area you would need to get all water out if test proves a good engine,as to not let water freeze in block.$2 grand is tempting but you could end up with a great looking yard decoration,steve

 

Steve
The dealer tells me it drove around town ok. I just don’t quite have the confidence to pull the trigger and He’s not going to let me tear into it. I may offer him a grand. Then I won’t mind waiting till I have time to work on it.

 

At 1K, it would be a good parts car for another rebuild.