2000XK8 56000mi. On startup I now get a very short rattle. I had the secondary tensioners replaced abt 2000mi. ago. Now what?

 

It could be a number of things so see if this is what you are hearing. You will find 2 video links for this problem.

Link JagRepair.com - Jaguar Repair Information Resource

 

Could also be the primary tensioners, or the bolts holding the secondaries are not tight. If the long bolts were reused it should have started making noise right away.
That's the trouble with having some one work on your car, you can never be certain.

 

He was an expert Jag guy and has done 100's of these. He did use new bolts (at least I paid for new ones). The rattle just started.

 

Also, can the primary tensioners do the same damage as the secondaries?

 

From all I have read on the forums, the primaries are not likely to cause major engine damage. I'm sure you will continue to locate the source of the sound, and my next thought is to remove the fuel injection fuse, turn the engine over to build up oil pressure, the quickly replace the fuse and start. It may not be conclusive, but if there is no rattle it does make one suspicious that chain tensioners are involved.

 

Had a similar issue. Noise could have been chains which had been replaced, gearbox or???
Turned out to be a catalyst falling apart.
Diagnosed by resting a bar against the engine/gearbox/catalyst and the mk1 ear.

 

As you have an 8 is may just be the VVT valves clicking until the oil gets to them