Hello,

I've been researching a problem I am having on my 2000 XKR and am uncertain if I have found the proper direction yet or not.

Since I bought my XKR 3 years ago I have noticed a sound it makes during full acceleration, most audible at RPM higher than 3000. It seemed to start out as a sputter, what I thought sounded like some type of exhaust leak. Then it seemed to progress into a rattle, what I thought sounded like a loose piece of sheetmetal fluttering against something. Now I would liken the sound to a coarse grinder when the car is floored and the RPM are climbing between 3000-6000.

From reading here, I am concerned that it is the S/C bearings. I found a thread that states I should take off the V8 cover and check for signs of wear on the roots, and looseness on the rear bearings. I will plan to investigate that soon.

Also, I have been concerned about a perceived(?) loss of top end power. I will be investigating the S/C along with any possible intake issues to address this. The car was outfitted with a cone filter (not my doing) and I have yet to replace it with the stock filter box.

Are there any other thoughts as to what else could be the culprit?

 

I do not own an XKR, but folks have mentioned the electric water pump for the inter-cooler. Supposedly located in the general area of the air box, and reportedly turns on when the ignition is on, so it should be easy to check. I assume if the pump is not operational, the coolant gets progressively warmer and looses its ability to cool the combustion air. Folks have also reported substantial coolant gelling in the inter-cooler once that big plug is opened.

The examples of rattling I have come across (not an XK8) had to do with the catalytic converter breaking apart, and progressively plugging up the exhaust, causing power loss. It progressively got worse over time. The "test" was to do a short run with open exhaust to see if the power was back. Not that I recommend that with an XK8...

Best of luck, keep us posted.

 

Thanks for the insight. I did have the pump replaced last year after it started making a whirling noise, so I expect that would still be in good working order. I'll also try to verify the coolant has not gelled.

 

I believe there is a EGR metal tube on the XKR that deteriorates and will cause similar noise. Do a search some others have replaced or repaired them. Supposed to be a pain to change and the part is pricey.