Hi everyone,
There is 97 XK8 locally, looks very nice in the ad but says low compression in 2 cylinders. I have my 98 XJ8, which is getting tired, but the engine runs great.
If I am correct these are both AJ26 engines?
What is to stop me from doing a transplant?

Thanks in advance.

 

Hmmmm, mighta answered my own question here. The XJ has VVT, as evidenced by an electrical connector on the forward face of the engine. From what I have heard, the 97 XK would have an AJ26 without VVT. Can anyone confirm?
Thanks.

 

The 97-98 XK8s (AJ26) have VVT (2 stage).

The 99-02 XK8s (AJ27) have VVT (Variable).

All XKRs do not have VVT.

 

More ramblings. The 97 either has VVT or it doesn't. If yes, no problem. If no VVT, then I could remove the VVT from my 98, and it should not be an issue since the 97 ECU isn't looking for VVT.
I could see maybe reusing the 97 throttle body, don't know if they differ (my 98 has the problem where it quits on the highway sometimes).
What about the transmission? My 98 was rebuilt a while back and should be compatible, I would think. Could be a good project if the car is nice (haven't heard from the guy yet).

 

Thanks Paul. I am trying to muddle through all the possible issues before I have to make decision on the car.

 

Read the above post again.

The AJ26 had VVT's but they are not the same as the AJ27 setups.

They are not compatible.

 

Thanks, that much I get, due to the different VVT control and the cam position sensors. I still get confused over AJ26 vs 27, but essentially you have no VVT, then 2 position VVT, then on the AJ27 (I think) the variable VVT.
These can be told apart by having no VVT connectors, then ones on the front of the engine, then ones on top of the valve covers.
Luckily I am only talking normally aspirated here. The SCs complicate life even further!

 

The non-SC VVT is real simple. The AJ26 had an on/off VVT and the AJ27 had a variable VVT. They are really not compatible.

Only the SC engine does not have VVT's.

 

OK, I think I know where I went wrong- I misread something on the net and thought the very early AJ-V8s did not have VVT. It makes more sense now.

 

That deal never came to pass, but thanks to all that replied, I am better prepared for the next opportunity.