Got this yesterday. Going to put it on today. Looks very good. Did some searching here and got the one from a sponsor here.. I've replaced both of them on the XJ8 and XK8 in the past with plastic ones. This will be my 1st alum. one and hopefully the last.
Jaguar XJ8 XK8 uprated Aluminum Thermostat Housing Kit AJ82217 100 Feedback | eBay

 

Paint it black! The bright aluminum is going to look strange on the otherwise black engine.

 

also when replacing use hex head bolts for the back bolts makes removing them in the future much easier also some silicone on the aluminium where the hoses go makes them slide on easier. that little short one is a bear

 

Each to their own. It's all a matter of personal taste.

OE Plastic:




Aftermarket Aluminium:



I preferred the aluminium finish and never considered painting it black.

Graham

 

Do you mean socket head (allen) screws? They can be tightened with ball end drives.

 

I never considered painting it black on the first car until finished and there it was . . . starting to corrode into the dull aluminum finish of the water pump.

 

What size allen wrench is used on the plastic thermostat tower cap?

 

Hey, you, how you been?

I think it's 10 mm but -- courtesy of Test Point -- maybe better to use a strap wrench on it. The plastic allen socket may not be strong enough to break it loose without damage.

 

>>maybe better to use a strap wrench on it<<

Will do.

>>Hey, you, how you been?<<

Very good--just named to Forbes 30 under 30 in the upcoming January 19th issue!

The XK8 is running well and has not thrown a code in ages. All repairs (very few needed over my 5+ years) are holding strong.

 

Good for you. Nice write-up. I think that Feynman diagram is wrong though.

 

cant remember now but bought them at home depot and yes for the ball end sockets . another suggested cutting a slot on top of the bolt heads so a screwdriver blade can be inserted . want to say 10 mm but just guessing .

 

77, Read this and I'm sure it will help.
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...ousing-119815/


Wayne

 

I have a bent wrench for removing the rear bolts that I have faith that I am never going to need again. Based on that faith I will mail it FREE to anyone replacing the thermostat tower.

All you have to do is promise to seek to send it free to the next person that needs it.

Post so that the world will know who has it.

 

Done.. Not bad, I kinda like the alum. finish. Thanks as I did look through your post and links..
Nice part from SNG. Wish it had the cross over pipe O rings in the kit..I took it off just to make it easy.
Pressed for time and no leaks once I was done. Car gone back to DC for now.

 

good job!