My '99 XK8 coupe has been experiencing "no start" problems. I am still diagnosing the problem, but it looks like it may require that I replace the starter. A few questions:
1. I have read that the factory recommended procedure suggests the steering rack must be removed to replace the starter. However, some postings suggest that the starter can be replaced without removing the rack. Can it be replaced without removing the steering rack? If so, is there any special "trick" to doing it?
2. I can get a factory remanufactured Bosch starter for a reasonable price. I don't yet know whether my Jag currently has the Bosch or Nippon starter. Are the Nippon Denso starters interchangeable with the Bosch starters or should I replace my starter with one from the same manufacturer as the one currently in the car?
3. I there a video anywhere of the replacement procedure?
Any help will be appreciated.

 

All OEM starters are Denso.

The Bosch rebuilt would be a Denso with a Bosch label/box.

If the starter spins well when it catches, but sometimes does
not catch it points to the most common problem on these
starters.

The solenoid contacts erode. These contacts are easily replaceable
and available from Toyota dealers or ebay. There are four common
styles. The problem is that no one has posted a picture of the
ones used in a Jaguar starter. A set of contacts goes for about $10
and replacement takes just a few minutes.

If you get the starter apart, a picture of the contacts used would
be appreciated. I'd like to keep a set in the toolbox for the
inevitable

 

plums,
Thanks for the info.
Here's a link to a starter rebuild kit on eBay with a photo of the parts you asked about:

New Starter Repair Rebuild Kit Solenoid Contact Plunger Set Denso Nippondenso | eBay

There's also a company in the UK that sells a rebuild kit on eBay with a link to instructions but I can't find it right now.

Does anyone know if the rack has to be removed to pull the starter?
Thanks,
Jim

 

Apparently not: https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...g-rack-158354/

At least you don't have to take the exhaust manifold off, unlike some Renaults I have known

Mike

 

As I had noted in another thread, my 99 XK8 would not turn over: only a solenoid click when the key was turned. I had checked the resting voltage at the battery and elsewhere through the trunk (boot) and all seemed OK.
When a buddy came over today, we checked voltage at the starter and got a low voltage reading. Checking voltage at the battery with the key turned to the start position showed only 9 volts. So I took the battery out and had it checked at Autozone, where I had purchased it 2 1/2 years ago. Their tester indicated the battery should be replaced (no reason given as to the problem) and they replaced it free of charge.
So, upon installing the new battery, she fired up right away.
I was dreading the starter replacement process, especially without the special half moon wrench in hand, but dodged that bullet.
I have always had the failed battery on a charger, but will replace it with a CTEK maintainer since I suspect the charger overcharged the battery

 

If you have done these, then please ignore, but:

1) Check the big fuses in the trunk mounted power module for continuity. (not the official name, but there are two, 250 amp fuses that go direct to the starter)

2) Also, I recently told a friend with a 2001 XK8 to check the big fuses when he had a similar no crank situation. He didn't listen to me, but instead searched the owners manual and found a blown 25 amp fuse that caused his problem.

 

It's a good idea to check output of any charger when first used.
I had two Cteks replaced under warranty, the first was simply erratic but the replacement was pumping upwards of 17 volts into my batteries. That was also replaced but the $800 odd worth of batteries it fried were not.