Hi All,
I am getting ready to replace the timing chain tensioners on my 2001 XK8. I have the new tensioners already, but need a gasket kit. While I'm in there I want to replace the water pump and thermostat. I've read about getting a water pump with metal impeller. Is this possible? If so, what brand should I be looking for? I have been searching the web and find lots of options, but non that specify a metal impeller.
Also, seems I read somewhere about replacing the thermostat housing with an aluminum one. Why is that sourced?

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

 

I can only advise on the housing for the thermostat. Good move and you can find them around 50 dollars and some come with the new thermostat.
On the 4.0 only let me add, the 4.2 is a different animal.
The back screws on the housing are a pain, replace with same size but use allen key with a 6 inch extension with a ball end. Lots of guys just break the plastic one into pieces to get it out of there, not my favorite way but it's your car.
OH, pay attention to the two clips and connections on the old tower, they are the knock sensors and a bit of a pain to get off the tower, so be aware.
Good luck.

 

Hi Folks,

Got a '97 XK8, 4.0 ltr and I'm doing the "upgrades"...I ordered from Barratt and thought they would be a bit more help and yes, but not enough. Do I replace the timing chain blades..? .the long plastic thingies on the timing chain. What is the correct nomenclature for those? Anyone have a part number? So far, I have two primary and one secondary tensioner, what else do I need whilst in there? I have the water pump and thermostat housing already and all the gaskets..

 

I call them slipper guides.
Jaguar isn't entirely consistent as one is a 'chain tensioner blade' (NCA2025AB) and the other is a 'chain guard' (NCA1998AB)
https://parts.jaguarlandroverclassic...ner-blade.html
https://parts.jaguarlandroverclassic...ain-guide.html

Make sure you get these correct parts. Some vendors (Barratt included) occasionally include the later ones in their kits. They do not fit properly.

I would suggest you drop the sump as part of the job in case any of the plastic detritus has fallen in there. See this post from desertdawg:
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...2/#post2326231

 

The AC Delco part # 252-800 is a popular replacement, although there is some dialogue about the possibility of cavitation issues with the metal impeller types. I did fit one of these, but having since read the pros and cons I would revert to the OEM plastic type next time. Your call.

See this post of DonB's:
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...7/#post2177569

Consider replacing the crossover pipe (AJ85885) 'while you're in there'. It's made of the same biodegradeable plastic as the tstat tower and just as prone to failure.
https://parts.jaguarlandroverclassic...tlet-pipe.html

 

You need the other secondary tensioner and the shorter screws to mount them.

 

Wow...thanks to all of you (y'all if you are Southern. I've go plenty of stuff to collect.

"Do it right the first time."