Hello, the group -
I am in the reassembly phase of replacing head gaskets (and many other things, including timing chain tensioners) on my 2000 XK8 (n/a) and have found tightening the head bolts to spec an incredible challenge. I've been using the workshop manual process (one round to 16 ft-lbs, one round to 26 ft lbs, one round of 90 degree turn, a second round of 90 degree turn). Using the T60 Torx bolts specified by Jaguar, and having great difficulty keeping the T60 bit in the bolt head even on the first round of 90 degree turn, getting concerned that the bolt head might cam out. Anyone else had this problem?

 

they’re not t60s they’re polydrive, tp60 works better if you want to use the wrong tool.

i use the hex head fel pros

 

Thanks, Xalty. Live and learn, glad I checked on this and grateful for your help. I'll order the TP60 bit before I do any damage.

 

look up ribe head bolt socket 12mm

 

Found this Ko-ken tool - sound correct?

Koken 4027.60-M12 | 1/2" Sq. Drive, Bit Socket for Ribe Screws

 

koken is good japanese stuff real expensive tho

CTA has a cheap one. i think i broke it once but that’s because we do a lot of work on 3l and 5ls

 

As it turned out, the head bolts I have are in fact T60 Torx, and after numerous unsuccessful attempts to use them I ordered the FelPro hex head bolts from Advance Auto. They went in fine with the same deep 1/2" socket I used to extract the old ones. These things take an alarming amount of torque.