I have a 1998 XKE I need to relocate from Atlanta to San Antonio. The vehicle has 35,000 original miles and has been serviced reqularly. Do the plastic tensioners fail early or can I wait until I reach San Antonio?

 

As a general rule the tensioners start to go around 60K and may be proceeded by a rattling at cold start.

Your mileage may, of course, vary but you can increase your chances of avoiding trouble by staying out of the loud peddle as much as possible and drive like an old lady until they're replaced.

 

Gen 3 Metal Bodied Secondary Tensioners are a MUST HAVE regardless of mileage. Time can also hasten failure!!

 

Poorly designed secondary tensioners affect 100% of 4.0 litre Jaguar motors. They will fail at some point. Time and mileage are both contributing factors. (some of the late 01 and 02 have the 3rd gen)

Sleep better, change them out.

 

Based on all the great comments and research, I will be having a 3rd Gen Timing Kit installed along with a new water pump and thermostat. One less thing to worry about on the way home.

 

I'd post a link but I'm using my phone today. I was doing pre-reaearch for a tensioners and chains kit for my 1997 XK8. Found some on eBay, exactly the same as you can get elsewhere for big bucks, for approx $150. Not sure if yours takes the exact same, but be diligent and you'll find deals. Good luck.

 

Before you order make sure that the seller will guarantee that it will fit your particular year and model. A friend of mine who runs a machine shop and has been building engines for decades bought based on a description and found that he had to modify what he got as it wasn't specific to his 2001. Shortly after I had to do my '99 XK8 and I made sure that the seller knew what I needed by year a serial number.

Just for your info. I bought from an eBay seller named Chris (can't recall his last name but his seller handle is cr051948) and these are his specialty. He cross references by year and vin and his kit was an exact fit. He's been an eBay member for 16 years and his feedback as of last Oct. was 100%.

The kit cost $375.00 and includes just about everything you'll need including gaskets, etc. E-Mail him with your model, year, and vin# and he'll make sure whatever he sends you is specific to your car as there have been those who think the Lincoln versions are the same...they're not... and once it's apart is a bad time to find out something doesn't fit.

Here's his current listing and he's still at 100% satisfied.

JAGUAR V8 4.0L 1999-2001 COMPLETE TIMING CHAIN KIT, EVERYTHING IN ONE BOX | eBay

 

Thanks RDMinor. I came across Chris and his product in a Youtube video. I had looked at various parts options and contacted Chris to discuss his options. He was very helpful and I should receive the complete kit next week. He also did some good video information.

Thanks for your input.