My name is Rob, I'm a new member and have a 1998 XK8 convertible which I have owned from new.
Over the years I have owned two XJ6's, a Daimler Sovereign and a couple of Lotus sports cars which were both true to their brand (Lots Of Trouble Usually Serious).
The XK8 is by far the best car I have had, very reliable, lovely to look at and a pleasure to drive.
I recently crossed the 100K threshold and had the timing chains and tensioners renewed and the cooling system upgraded.
On completion I was left with a rattle which appeared to be in the front right hand suspension.
As some of the bushes, ball joints and front wheel bearings had been recently replaced I assumed the noise was suspension related so I replaced the shock mounts, the sway bar and sway bar links,
The problem is still there and it can be intermittent. At times it sounds like a can with a hand full of ball bearings rolling about depending on the road surface of course.
The brake shield appears to be firmly fixed.
As The problem started after the timing chain upgrade I am now wondering if it could be related to the the radiator or oil cooler which were both removed at that time?
Any thoughts would be most appreciated.

 

Welcome to the forums Rob,

I've copied your question from New Member Area - Intro a MUST to XK8/XKR forum. Members here with the same model will be able to help.

Graham

 

Hmm. Take a look under the hood. There are these two flat headed specialty bolts that are used to hold the fan shroud to the rad. When the shroud is allowed to wiggle around it can make some noise...

Clearly you know this car, but are you're sure the noise is with BUMPS and not allllll the time? Just thought I would ask.

 

I don't think I've ever heard this on the forum BUT,,, is it possible that the guides, chains or some part of the tensioner job was done incorrectly and the BUMP sets off a short chain (no pun intended) reaction where the chain slaps around a bit before settling down...?

Just thinking out loud here...

 

You sure it’s suspension related? That’s usually bumpy or squeaking noises.

The way I usually check is by opening the passenger door and rock the car using the door as an extended lever.

From what you said “sounds like a can rattling like it’s full of ball bearings” is odd. Broken Exhaust cats can make a similar albeit not loud noise. Does the noise go up and down with engine revs when car is stationary?

 

"Marbles in a tin can" rattling sounds can be coming from a failed catalytic converter....

 

Thanks JayJag,
Have checked out the fan shroud connections and all seems to be well damped when given a good shake.
The noise is certainly vibration related as on a smooth road everything is sweetness and light.

 

Thanks David,
I levered the car door and rocked as you suggested but everything seems good and tight.
Will get my mechanic to check out the cat converter. Sounds like a possible contender.
No noise with the car stationary and the engine reved

 

Thanks Jon89,
Will get it checked out and will let you know. Sounds like you might have the answer.