What year were metal chain tensioners standard on the XK8 ? Thank You

 

From what I understand.....1997-1999 XK8s can suffer from timing chain tensioner problems. A 2000 model would be better while 2003-2006 are the best.

I think there were 3 generations..
Plastic,
Plastic with some metal
All metal

 

I can't find my reference, but I think the change to metal tensioners began aug 13 2001. You need to check the engine serial# to be sure, not the car build date. The serial number would be 010813xxxx.

 

There are some late 2002 engines that have the same updated timing chain system as the 4.2 liter engines standard in 2003. All prior to that date need the secondary tensioners changed to metal ones. The plastic ones will fain in a very bad way.

 

It is my understanding that the 4.0 engines manufactured after Aug 13th 2001 had the tensioner update. ( unverified)

 

So, as Dirty Harry would say, "do you feel lucky"?

I would pull the cam cover and take a look. My 2001 XKR had second generation plastic which I immediately replaced.


Cheers,

Stu

 

The engine number is everything. The build date for the car is conveniently located on the doorpost, but the engine date is hard to find (near the thermostat) and even harder to read.

The 2002 model year begin production in July of 2001. The first engine built with metal tensioners and guides was built on August 13th but didn't find its way into assembly until September.

 

Roger, Thanks for that info, I believe it helps confirm that my car has metal tensioners. My engine number is: NL0110110444 which I believe was manufactured on Oct 11,2001 assuming i'm decoding the number correctly.