markings on the engine..

Hi

Just purchased a 99 XK8 convertible which seems to of had a second hand engine fitted at some time which is not shown on the v5c - still shows original engine number...

The engine is marked as per the picture...

I am interested in trying to find the history of this engine...

thanks

 

If that is the cam cover, and the cam sensor is in the top right of the picture, I think the white marker is from a salvage yard. The middle 3 figures say it came from an XJ8, and it is a 4.0. The top number may just be a stock number, or engine mileage.......My 2 cents.....be cool......Mike

 

Maybe a 4.0 which needs chain tensioners etc replacing...

 

Agreed that is a typical salvage yard marking.

The full engine number will be similar format to my 2001 XK8 - NB0108171611

Ignoring the leading NB:

First and second digits : Year of manufacture
Third and fourth digits : Month of manufacture
Fifth and sixth digits: Day of the month of manufacture
Seventh and eighth digits: Hour of manufacture
Ninth and tenth digits: Minute of manufacture

Decoding the number shows my engine came off the production line on 17th August 2001 at 16:11. You can decode your in the same way.

With a 1997 it's likely the engine has been replaced due to Nikasil failure or overheating.

Graham