Greetings gang,

I had a head gasket blow on me yesterday, and I couldn't find much information on the forum regarding this, so my questions are:

1) Does the engine need to be removed to do the job, or can it be done with the engine in place?

2) Where's the best place to get a reasonable complete gasket set?

3) Any Jag-related specialty tools I will need beforehand?

4) Any good videos out there on the subject?

I know some will say to simply put in a used engine, but if I'm going to that expense, I'd rather do the work and have an engine that should go many, many more miles instead of taking the risk of a used engine.

And 'Yes", it was rush hour on a 6-lane highway, so it got pretty overheated before I could pull the cat over, so I know I'm running a risk of warped or cracked heads and valve guide issues, but I won't know the extent of the damage until I tear her apart.

Thanks in advance!

 

Nikasil and heat are not friends. Make sure to check the cylinders for damage before putting it back together.

There are a few threads on here from folks who have done the top end (including me) after a little light reading you will have a good idea what you will need.

 

Check out my thread, here- https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...-repair-97146/

 

There's a company in CA that has rebuilt XK8 motors, with guarantee. They advertise on e-bay.