I'm planning on doing the tensioner replacement this summer. My 98 ragtop has 47k on it and I presume it was not done. My question was. I've seen the tool for locking the cams in place, and also zip ties. Where can I get the tools? Can they be rented? Are the zip ties as effective?

 

The zip tie method will restore the cam timing to what it was before the work. That may or may not be exactly correct and requires removing the exhaust cams which have their own issues.

I choose the Jaguar lock down method. There a number of vendors that will 'loan' you the tools as well as a couple forum members.

On waiting until Summer . . . I have had two of these cars both which had tensioners changed under warranty at about 40k miles so your 47k miles does not provide any confidence that they will last that long.

 

Not too long ago someone told me they were going to 'wait until after the holidays'. They ended up buying a new engine after the the holidays!

 

This can be the penalty of delay:

 

Ouch Paul! I'm now sufficiently frightened and will get them swapped out before the spring when the Jag comes out of winter storage.