I agree 100% that the issue is softer springs.

The part number given me was JLM20712* which is the part number for aftermarket (Suplex) 4.0L N/A convertible with non-adaptive damping.

 

I am about to replace my front springs, and this thread scares me a bit. (And I sell aftermarked auto parts for a living).

Suplex are supposed to have these springs, so does Lesjöfors. Any have any experience with Lesjöfors? (Swedish brand, owns plants all over Europe)

 

Does the coupe and the convertible have different springs? I would assume they use the same springs.

 

I believe they do use different springs. The convertible is a little heavier, so maybe they need it? In any event, they have two different part numbers.

 

The best way to find out if you have the right springs is to call a Jaguar dealer they will look it up by Vin number. In the SNG Barret parts book they list 2 different springs for the 4.0 liter supercharged coupe and convertible. According to Edmunds model specs the XK8 Coupe curb weight is 3726lbs, the Convertible's curb weight is 3962lbs for a difference of 236lbs. The 2001 XKR Coupe 3785lbs, convertible 4021lbs for a difference of 236lbs. I would be inclined to think there should be 2 different springs for the XK8 also.

 

Agreed, give the dealer your vin number, get the part number, and make sure you ask the parts guy, if the part have superceded into another part number

 

That look suspiciously low. What does the other side look like?

I did work on a '97 xk8 a while back and when it came in one side was dipping down as low as your drivers side.

When I lifted it up the subframe was broken and that caused the wheel to be practically in the fender liner.

It was still driveable, just dangerous.

It doesn't take much to break these aluminum subframes.

Good luck.

 

Both sides are equally low. I wouldn't expect the subframe to break/bend evenly on both sides.

 

Well that rules out my idea, thankfully so! These subframes are very expensive.

Has your mechanic had a look at it yet?

I am very curious to find out what is causing this. It seems like you have addressed any possible culprits.

Good luck!

 

.......according to you photos Nr.4 and Nr.8 the spring is definitely wrong.
The only solution will be changing them again.

 

Unfortunately I think you're right, but what are you basing this comment on? The photos wiljulrin posted do not have any marking on the springs. If it is the low ride height itself, then I agree.

Question now is do we replace with another set of Suplex springs or another brand.

 

Sorry,
i spend my holidays till 6-10-2014, so i can´t post photos of the suspension of my xk8 convert.
Please look here:

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...photos-102401/

For your safety i think it is better to change to another brand.

 

There are different part numbers (and colour-stripes) for different springs.........
Welcome to JaguarPartsDB.com, the online parts resource for the Jaguar owner. We supply parts for the following Jaguar cars, XK 120, 140, 150, Mk 2, E type, S Type, XJ6, XJ40, XJS, X300, XJ8, X Type, XK8, XKR, X350, New XK

 

I looked at my springs, and I have two yellow stripes. It can be very confusing with so many choices available. Looking at the jaguarpartsdb.com site,

 

I ran into exactly the same issue. However, only with the original nuts. They are of the weird "oval" type. When replacing those with regular locking nuts and washers, they went on fine, paint or no paint.