Hi folks...

So, this morning, my dear (hopefully not departed) 98 XK8 (105K miles) wouldn't start.

I think the last time, I didn't let her heat up properly, just a short move from one position on the drive to another, so wasn't too concerned...

except that after a bit of time to sit, and trying again, I am getting a "Check Eng" light on the dash, my oil gauge is low with the red light on, and it's not starting.

I checked the oil level, and it's way too low.

is this the dreaded timing belt tensioner thing, or am I just low on oil? My first instinct is to get some decent oil in there to a suitable level, and crank it for a good 30-40 seconds to get it circulating, but at the same time, if I have a "damaged but still fixable" situation, I don't want to turn it into a "sold for spares" in one misguided step!

Thoughts?

Ian.

 

You have probably experienced the Nikasil "cylinder wash" syndrome by not bringing the engine up to temp. before shutting off. Do a search on that topic for more detail. You may have to pull the plugs and squirt some oil into the cylinders to get compression back.
The low oil level is not related, and adding oil should resolve that issue. Good luck.
RJ
'97 XK8 85K mi.

 

Cylinder wash...

You must keep your oil up! With 32 valves and high mileage you will eat a bit of oil between changes. Keep an eye on it.

Heat is the enemy - take a look at your coolant, too!

Good luck!

 

Yeah, turns out, that's exactly what it was...

I didn't realise what a complete pain in the *** removing the spark plugs on the XK8 would be though. In the end, I pulled all 4 on the left hand side, and left the ones on the right (under the air filter).

First things first, I topped up my oil to a more sensible level... then popped the cover, removed the coil packs, pulled the plugs, and used a drinks straw to suck up some oil to drop into the cylinder... must have looked odd, but did the trick.

back together, I put the pedal to the floor and cranked it for 15-30 seconds, then half way on the throttle, and cranked it - it almost caught, then died..

let it rest for a few seconds, then tried again - bit of rattle, gurgle, then vrooooom! giant cloud of white smoke from the left hand exhaust, and the jag roared into life...

I let her warm up on the drive for ten minutes, then out for a 40-45 mile blast, and a visit somewhere nice for dinner...

Sure enough, on the way home, she started first time perfectly, as usual.

Thanks again to this forum!

 

Everyone with a 4.0 learns that lesson the hard way! Now you may count yourself among the long, distinguished members on the ledger.

 

Glad you got it sorted out, but, I was wondering about your mention of the tensioners, do you know if they have been done?