Why are my chain tensioners breaking on my XJ8?

Why are my chain tensioners breaking on my XJ8?

The only post AJ26 revision engine issue is the secondary timing chain tensioners. These were revised to a mk 2 version around the same time as the rest of the 1999 engine revisions but the mk 2 type still had a plastic body which can crack or break up leading to slipped or broken chains.

What kind of tensioner do you use on a Jaguar V8?

(See the photos at left.) We now use the metal-based third-generation tensioners exclusively when replacing cracked first- and second-generation Jaguar V8 tensioners. When a plastic tensioner shatters or wears to the point the cam chain becomes loose, a rattling around can be heard in the cam area at the front of the engine.

Why do you need cam chain tensioners in a Jaguar?

In their zeal to reduce the weight of the valve train and related components as a way of improving fuel efficiency, the engineers under designed the AJ-V8’s timing gear: in particular, the cam chain tensioners.

How long does it take to replace Jaguar tensioners?

We only use Jaguar’s third-generation metal tensioners. Should you elect to replace your tensioners, make an appointment and we normally have a 48-hour turnaround. Our 12-month, unlimited mileage warranty will apply to all parts and labour. Could you experience the problem with the new tensioners after replacement is carried out?

Why are my cam chain tensioners breaking on my Jaguar?

(The new 4.2L version of the Jaguar AJ-V8 engine has double timing chains.) As a result of their weak design and other factors like engine overheating or poor maintenance, the plastic cam chain tensioners on 1997 to 2000 V8 Jaguars began to experience stress fractures, and so did some of the plastic guides.

Are there any issues with the Jaguar XJ8?

Verified HelloIn 2000 there was an upgrade to the timing chain tensioners and another one in 2001 this was in addition to the change over to cast iron liners in the engine block as well. So yes a 2002 model should be fine and there are no other recorded issues for this year.

When to get a tensioner replaced on a Jaguar XJ8?

If you would like us to do a tensioner replacement under third-party warranty, please supply us with contact information about your warranty provider before we start the job. We recommend that if your XJ8/XK8 has passed 35,000 miles, you take preventive action and have the tensioners inspected.

When did Jaguar XJ8 steel liners come out?

HelloYes basically from 2000 onwards ( June I think) the steel liners were fitted and with some tensioner improvements. Then from 2001 the 2nd update of the timing chain tensioners was carried out. So all good from 2001 on and from 2000 on fixed liners and improved but not final tensioners fitted.

What should I do if my timing chain broke?

If the pistons are not damaged, then the least expensive route for repair, would be to replace the entire cylinder head with a rebuilt one as it is less labor intensive than rebuilding your existing cylinder head. If the pistons are damaged, then a complete remanufactured or used engine would be the least expensive route to repair the vehicle.

What happens when the timing belt breaks on a car?

Interference refers to the fact the intake and/or exhaust valves occupy the same space as the pistons. The timing belt/chain keeps that from happening at the same time. If the timing belt or chain brakes, the valves and pistons will hit each other. Valves can bend and/or break and the pistons can be damaged.

How long does it take to replace chain tensioners?

Initial oil fill to level of filler hole so it overflows a little. Quickly pump more oil in with engine still running so it overflows from filler hole again. With engine still running fit filler plug. Labour for secondary timing chain tensioner swap should be 3 hours absolute max.

Is the XJ8 referred to as the X308?

To avoid XJ model confusion the 1997-2002 V8 engined XJ is referred to by its factory designation as the X308.

What kind of engine does a 308 XJ8 have?

The V8 engine in the 308 is available in a 3.2, 4.0 with VVT and a supercharged 4.0 and all versions are 5 speed auto only. £3000 should buy you a good example of a base 3.2, but the best low mileage cars or high spec ones are priced at up to double that. Engines were revised in late 1999 model year from AJ26 version to AJ27.

When did the XJ8 engine get a VIN number?

Engines were revised in late 1999 model year from AJ26 version to AJ27. A car fitted with the revised engine version can be identified by a VIN number ending in five, not six digits.

Why is my timing chain making a rattling noise?

A bad timing chain will often emit a rattling sound for a few minutes before the engine warms up, and then will lower in intensity or dissipate altogether after it warms up.

What are the symptoms of a bad timing chain?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Timing Chain. 1 1. Engine misfires or runs poorly. There are two ways to achieve valve timing in a combustion engine. The first is the two-gear method, which includes 2 2. Metal shavings found in the oil. 3 3. Engine won’t start or fails. 4 4. Check Engine Light is on. 5 5. Engine rattles while idling.

Is the timing chain on an engine made of metal?

In order for your engine to fire, the timing chain must smoothly rotate around the gears without hesitation. Although the timing chain is made out of metal, it is subject to wear and tear and may break if not replaced as recommended by the manufacturer.

How much does it cost to replace timing chain?

This will definitely be a loud engine noise when accelerating, so it should be easy to notice. It’s not usually a good idea to drive a long time after you discover the engine making noise for this reason. It’s going to cost around $500 to $1,500 to replace the timing chain or timing belt tensioner.