I don`t want to beat a dead horse here, but the more I investigate the the more conflicting things I hear. I just bought a 2003 XKR with 38000 miles. It`s been well maintained. I am trying to decide if the tensioners are an issue on an 03. I know I could remove the cam cover and check them but I don`t want to get into that if I really don`t have to. I realy want to change the tensioners if I`ve got the plastic ones just as a preventative measure. so... on a 2003 XKR can I feel safe or do I need to pull the cover and make sure? I`ve had some dealer techs say the 2003 original tensioners are fine but I have heard and read otherwise. Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

 

If you have a 4.2 you have metal tensioners, and far stronger chains, so no need to do anythig for a long time. If it's a 4 litre i'm not sure which tensioners will be in there.
Some say metal tensioners were factory fitted from 2001, to 4 litre motors, but i'm not convinced as i have seen no proof of this.
Even if they are the composite spring assisted version, your mileage is low, and providing the car has been well serviced, and not been overheated, you should be good to 60K. (advise inspection at this point)
Also the supercharged motor seems to suffer less on this front, maybe due to the absence of variable valve timing.

 

Tensioners are not an issue with the '03 and up 4.2L cars. Don't worry about it, enjoy the car.

 

Tensioners are an issue on 03's.......just not jaguar 03's.
youre fine

 

I`ve got a 4.2L with supercharger and I am a happy camper!! Even more so after reading your replies...absolutely love this car. I`ve had it only 3 weeks now and I installed the convertible top hydraulic pressure relief valve the other day. I`m really glad to hear that I don`t need to obsess about those tensioners....!! Thanks for the input to all...