I know there is a lot of info on the site but thought it might be time to ask about this stuff again. Where have you guys been purchasing your replacement parts: 3rd gen tensioners, spark plugs (i plan to use Bosch platinum-NAPA),
anyone change coil boots? NAPA said they are special order at $21 each, and air or cabin filters? Does K&N make an intake filter?
My car is a 2001 XK8

 

I would order the Lincoln LS '00 tensioners and bolts from the lowest cost place on the internet. That has been Ford dealers on many occasions.

Gaskets are available as a FelPro set from any local auto parts store for the same '00 LS for less than $40.

No reason to replace the boots unless you tear one or more up removing the coils. Your price is several multiples of what I had heard. I would swab each with some silicone grease when reinstalling. That will eliminate removal issues forever.

You do not have a cabin filter. It was a custom order only for US cars.

Air filters are available at you friendly local auto parts store. I would not spray oil on any air filter. The last car I had that used an oil bath for air filtration was a '56 Chevy. The MAFS does not appreciate the fumes.

 

02 Lincoln LS or 02 T-Bird V-8 Tensioners and new bolts from Tousley Ford online. Parts #2W9Z6K254CA and 2W9Z6K254BA: 4 x "screws" W500301S300 They sell all Ford/L-M parts online @ 10% over cost--probably 40% lower than your local dealerships.

Felpro (Part # VS50724R) cam cover gasket set (including spark plug gaskets) for the A27 engine (99 model+) from RockAuto.com. (They don't fit 98 and earlier models, however.) RockAuto also has plugs, filters and other limited items for Jags. (They are the largest online parts operation there is, and I've found their level of service to be very good.)

 

Just like to add, use what you want but I've thrown more Bosch plugs (platinum/non-platinum, no difference) in the trash that kept cars from passing emissions testing than any other brand. Next worst would be any plug with more than one ground electrode (shrouding? a sign of marketing hype of a cheap plug?) Just a heads-up...