XJR - engine oil and drive belts replacement

[XJ_Driver]

Hi there,

I've just got myself a 'new' X308 (well, new to me anyway!). It's a 1997 XJR. I am going to carry out an oil and filter change shortly, but wondered which is the best oil to use in the engine? I have read on-line 10w40, but also 5w30... Any suggestions which is best?

I am also going to get the auxillary drive belt and supercharger drive belt replaced - although I shan't be tackling that job myself. Belts replacement was flagged up as an advisory at the last service and now there is a definite squeak coming from one of them. There seems to be a huge price variation between OE belts and aftermarket. Will aftermarket due the job, or is it best to stick with OE? Also, when changing belts is it necessary to renew any other components (tensioners, etc.) at the same time?

All advice appreciated! Thanks.

Regards,
John.

[andypryce]

Hi John,

I had a squeaking issue on my 2006 XJR, I gather it's a common problem. I replaced the belt with a gator belt, which is much superiorwith no noise. Unsure if they do them for the X308, but worth checking,

see link below:

andy.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Jaguar-XJR-XK ... 232f1c8241

[700SN]

Hi all
Besides what John has stated below, I’m looking to do a major service - change spark plugs for iridium ones, change gearbox oil (and is there a filter?) and supercharger oil ( I saw there’s a kit on eBay).
Furthermore may get system flushed out with new coolant and same with brakes & power steering (if that’s necessary?)

Is there anything else recommended-? I note John asked about any tensioner etc?

Appreciate in advance
Stuart

[XJ_Driver]

Hi Stuart,

I actually posted that almost six years ago. Coincidentally, my present XJR is currently in the garage having both the auxiliary and supercharger belts replaced (the supercharger had to come off to access another job) so at the same time I'm getting the aux belt tensioner and idler pulley replaced, along with the same two components on the supercharger belt.

BTW - gearbox oil change is a specialist job. I took my car to a MB specialist last time I had this job done (since it's a Merc box on the XJR) but the tech there seemed to have no idea what he was doing (I watched the work progressing very slowly / hesitantly through the workshop observation window). When I got the car back all seemed fine for a few days, but then the 'box began to 'slam' into low gear whenever I slowed to a complete stop. Subsequently invested in a dipstick and discovered the oil level was barely half-full. I shan't be going back there again!