Sorry for the repeat posting - at last in the correct forum.

I've always love the old E-Type design, so the XK8s when they came out looked like a great choice. But I needed 4 seats, so opted for a 99, then an '03 XJ8, and have loved them both. But my not-so-good experience with the '99 leads me to ask ....

I have a line on TWO, (my cups runneth over!!) immaculate '99 XK8s. Both are under 40K miles. But I hesitate - are the engines at all similar to the engine in the '99 XJ? The one that had bad tensioners, and nickel-silicon piston liners that gave way at around 100K miles? I know the XK I'd prefer has had the transmission repair reinforcing the structure - it shouldn't be an issue. Not sure about the other.

The owner of the preferred XK says the "VVT sensors mount through the valve cover as opposed to timing cover on the early engine". What does that really mean?

Thanks in advance for any insight on these. Being an old fart worrying about the engine 60K miles hence is like worrying about buying green bananas, I'm never likely going end up having to worry about it - at the rate I put on miles, it'll take until I'm 170 to get to 100K...Darned certain I'll be playing cards with the worms by then.

 

You obviously know your stuff. What this means you have the later AJ-27 engine as the VVT in on the side Cam Cover not the front of the earlier AJ-26 engine. As the nicksil bore liners were subject to sulphur damage Jag might have changed the car’s engine under warranty .... albeit a lot earlier. There may be an engine plate/sticker next to the cabin bulkhead that confirms this engine R&R. So long as you have good piston bore pressure now, it’s not an issue as gasoline regulations mean it won’t be an issue.

Not sure what the transmission message is about though. The ZF5HP24 gearbox has known weaknesses so maybe he’s referring to the upgraded ZF PR valve or to a ATF fluid fix or R&R.

Good luck on your choice. Let us know what you decide.

 

Thanks for your reply DavidYau! You have educated me a lot today!!

I believe the ZF issue is a congenital issue with a cracked front drum. We have a local shop that has repaired/rebuilt many ZFs. They weld a reinforcing bar across the top of the drum at the usual spot it cracks, and it seems to be a permanent and reliable repair. The preferred (of the 2) XKs is owned by a certified jag tech, and the guy who services my XJ. He mentioned the trans repair was done, but not an engine replacement. I'm sure he'd have mentioned the engine if it were replaced.

 

I would certainly check the secondary tensioners as those did not get upgraded until late in the 2000MY run (closer to 2001). I would also check the upper shock mounts for crumbling foam (age and temp will do it here). You can also tell by looking at the ride height (should be 15 3/4" from center cap to bottom of the wheel arch). With low mileage - means seals/hoses etc may be dry rotted and in need of replacement sometime soon. I'd proceed with caution if you can't perform DIY repairs

 

Indeed stuff i had heard to watch for. The "preferred" XK is owned by a jag tech who also services my XJ. He replaced the shock tower mounts and it changed the ride completely! I'd suspect, but will need to verify, he's babied that thing and has kept it in top condition. It might be a case of the cobbler's kids going barefoot, but I doubt it. Those secondary tensioners are a pain...

As far as DIY, I've busted more'n a few knuckles under cars. Rebuilt some motorbike engines. I can change hoses and belts no problem. Seals, may have to go to the zoo to get seals ... . Would put replacing seals a bit outside my paygrade given the current shop tools available.

Thanks very much for the reply, Steve! I've learned some things from you. .

 

Agree with David that the Nikasil should no longer be an issue if the compressions are good now. It would not be a deal breaker for me.

If the seller is a Jaguar tech he will be well aware of the tensioner issues and should have addressed them. I'd want evidence, though, else it's a price negotiation point.

Expect to replace all the perishables on any vehicle of this age, even with the low mileage. On the plus side, most jobs are tedious rather than overly difficult, and you will always find a helping hand here on the forum.

Good luck with whichever you choose.