I have replaced the secondary tensioners and I still have valve clatter after startup and it goes away inside 2 minutes, what can cause this to happen?

 

I suspect you have an incorrect or defective oil filter, one with no anti drain back valve function. Change to a name brand filter after carefully determining the proper part #.
Let's hope it's as simple as that.

 

+1 on the oil filter. I use the OEM filter from the dealer on my 01 XK8 just for that reason. The small cost difference is well worth it to me for less engine stress.

But keep an eye on it and make sure it not worn valve train issues or rattling primary chains, especially if a filter and new oil doesn't quiet it.

 

The v8 does not have hydrailic tappets so I doubt it is the valve train as the valve clearance hardly changes during these two minutes.

Either faulty primary or your new scondary tensioners

 

You did use the shorter bolts with the new tensioners, I hope. I helped a friend replace his and they sent the wrong bolts.

 

It was making this noise before I had the tensioners replaced.

 

But it really shouldn't be now, unless the primaries are bad. The reason I mentioned the bolts is that if the longer bolts are in place, the tensioners will lose the oil from running after shutdown and will not be able to extend immediately when you start up.

 

What's the mileage of your car?

 

I think it's probably the VVT units on the front of each intake cam. Try this:

After the car has set for a while, start the engine with the bonnet raised, WITHOUT using the throttle. Listen for the "valve noise" and when it's present, goose the throttle once quickly, to about 50% pedal travel.

Does the noise shut up?? If it does, the VVT's are the culprit. They get worn and oil drains out of the units, blipping the throttle activates them and they charge with oil. That quiets them down. Tensioners won't help that any, only VVT replacement will do.

Cheers,

 

car just passed 100k miles and I cannot see how an oil filter could cause this problem. XKRGUY, I am going to try your test and will let you know.

 

Anything to report??

 

I think the OE oil filter has a non return valve in it which stops the oil draining back out of parts of the top end.

I have had top end enging start up noise on my 4.2 for the last year which has just gone with an oil/filter change last week.