Can a Nikasil Engine be fixed?
 

OK OK OK...
So this might be a truly stupid question... BUT, just for kicks (and possible saving $$$$), can a nikasil engine that HAS NOT FAILED YET (it's been removed from a salvaged car), be relined or repaired somehow with steel cylinder liners?? I've seen plenty of rebuilt blocks online and was wondering if this is possible??

I am about to obtain a '98 XK8 needing engine replacement, and at least for the time being, am looking at just replacing with a '98-'01 engine. I know all engines produced after Aug, 2000, have the steel liners, but those that claim rebuilding of '97 to '00 engines, are they correctable???

Are there any modifications needed if I swap in a '01 to '02 engine into this 1998 XK8??

THANKS!!

It is possible to add steel sleeves to the aluminum block but it is a question of economics.

You '98 has an AJ26 engine that was used in '97-98 models as well as '99 XJ/K 'R' types. Lot of differences but they can be overcome by swapping parts such as cams. You basically have to convert the later AJ27 back to the 26 configuration.

There is a school of thought that a healthy nikasil engine is going to stay healthy because the major cause of failures was high sulphur fuel which is no longer being sold.

If the engine has not failed then it is a good engine. Why do you want to make a good engine out of a good engine??????

A nikasil engine will run will run with less friction.

I had a failed 1999 4.0 engine that I had liners installed. I think it ended up being about $50 or $60 for each cylinder. Then new rings for steel liners (different from nikasil rings) were installed.

Talk to a good machine shop if you are hell bent on this rebuild.

bob gauff