We just purchased a 2000 XK8 convertible with 56000 miles on it. This is an original owner car and I just had to have it. It is however our first Jag and I'm sure you know the stories I've heard from my friends. Fortunately they did not scare me away from a Jaguar, and you cant believe everything you hear anyway. With that said I would like to know if there is anything that I should be looking for or normal wear items that need to be inspected or replaced? The autocheck shows it only driven 2000 miles a year for the last 8 years. Will this be a problem? I have the service records and they are impeccable. However, there is no reference to the timing chain tensioners. Should I be concerned with that yet? Any input on what to look for is greatly appreciated.
Thanks

 

Doug,

Welcome to the forum. If you look at the top of the main XK8/R forum page you will see several "sticky" threads. Under the How To/DIY thread you will see 2 links to things to look for when buying an XK. I know you already have bought, but it will tell you what to look for now.

If you do not have a service record on the secondary tensioners being replaced, you should take a look. Just pull a cam cover and you will easily be able to see one side. Search the forum and there are tons of how-to-do's on this topic. Since it's a one-owner, why not ask?

Otherwise, do the same you would for any used car, change the fluids, check the belts and listen when you drive.

 

Welcome to the forum.




You should at least insure that the upper tensioners have been replaced. There have been reports of cracks on low mileage cars so age is probably a factor, not just miles. The primaries are hard to see without a boroscope, and some of the techs have said they are not likely to cause serious engine damage if they fail. If money and/or time is not a concern, replacing all the chains, guides and tensioners would be the best decision. I have only done the uppers.

It would be wise to replace the thermostat and also use a metal housing. Carefully check the hoses and if you don't know how old they are, consider replacing them, also.

If you plan on keeping the car, you might want to invest in Realgauge from jagwrangler.com so that you can read the true engine temp.

 

Welcome to the forum!

I too purchased my first Jag last summer, an 05 XK8, and am in love with it. I'm sure you'll love yours too.. they're fantastic cars. +1 on the upper tensioners. Not speaking from experience as the later 4.2L cars aren't affected by this, but from everything I'm read its probably the best investment you can make maintenance-wise.

Anyway, enjoy the car! Lots of very knowledgeable people on this forum that can help with any problems that may arise.