www.jec.org.uk

Hi all,
I’m hoping you can help with my small dilemma....
I’m going to look at a 2004 xj8 113k miles - which has a few problems which at worst might be head gaskets.
Coolant system is pressurising, water pump leak.
Block test has been allegedly carried out.
Also air suspension intermittent problem.
Long mot with no issues in test history

Starts and drives fine, but loses/uses coolant.
Possibly a slight misfire from cold

I need to go see it for myself which I plan to do today, I’ve changed many head gaskets over the years although never a V8.

It’s only 10 miles away and I can probably get it for <£1k but I would be grateful for Thoughts, warnings ?

Regards

Steve

Fine if you want to get involved with an SEP...somebody elses problem!

You have to decide whether spending small on the car is worth a potentially huge amount in repairs which would probably equate to the cost of buying a good example in the first place.

Do you want a project car or a good usable example? Only you can decide that.

Anything can be repaired given enough cash. One has to ask? Is it ever worth it in the case of an SEP? Unknown issues and massive parts costs not to mention the time input.

Mike K

Thanks for the response, you have articulated my thoughts exactly!
I don’t mind taking the work on, but I do need to make sure it’s within my capability.

My XKR was purchased blind, and I replaced the hood hydraulics, front springs and one shock, but decided that doing the belts and tensioner looked like an exercise in gynaecology and so paid my local independent.

My S-Type was £500 off Facebook market place and was sold as non-running/needing attention. I was possibly lucky and replaced the perished valley hose, plugs and coils and I have since added an additional 25k miles of trouble free motoring. Yes, probably lucky!

I will let you know my decision...

You don't say which version of XJ8.

Water leaks can be as simple as cracked header tanks (you'll find discussions in the forum) and hoses. Suspension issues can be more significant; might just be a dodgy connection or broken sensor mount, but could be a duff pneumatic strut, in which case you might pay more for a replacement than for the car!

As with all modern vehicles, the electronics can hide a multitude of sins; you probably need a scanner to check for any lurking faults.

Given the potential for big bills, some sort of professional inspection would be worthwhile - or take it to a professional for a service. The trouble with MOTs is (a) no dismantling, so inspection is limited (especially if the car's undertray is in place), and (b) it's mostly about safety and legislation (both important) but not reliability or usability - a worn engine is a pass, but a worn wiper blade is a fail.

Thanks for the replies,
I went and looked at the car yesterday, and the general state of it suggested much neglect rather than a couple of things so ?I walked away.

The search continues

Have a look at Trovit Cars online. Input your model requirements and register on the site. Emails will be sent to you three or four times a day with the latest cars to be offered for sale. The site harvests from eBay, Auto Trader etc and puts all the info in one place. Its a very useful portal and saves an awful lot of searching. Unsubscribe when you have found what you are looking for.

Mike K

The problem here is the cost you spend to repair the car is worth it?

show us a photo of the car! curious to see!