3.4 litre Inlet camshaft wear 1985 XJ6

[CliveRothwell]

3.4 litre inlet camshaft looks to have worn through the plating on one lobe judging by the witness marks.
Several questions: Are new camshafts available? Cost to buy? Should timing chains be changed at the same time? Cost to fit? Recommendations as to which garage to use. And no.....I'm sadly no longer able to DIY this sort of thing.

All replies gratefully received.
Thanks
Clive

[mike020150]

Presumably the engine has acquired a 'tick' where the follower has worn through the cam's case hardening and opened up the clearance. Whilst not totally unknown at lower mileages, it would be a less usual fault in these days of better engine oils. Consequently, I'd suggest checking the overall condition of the engine before deciding whether simply to change the cam and followers or to contemplate a larger engine rebuild project. If you stick with just changing the cam, these are no longer available new from Jaguar. However, new and second hand cams are available elsewhere from engine builders and other sources. Mike.

[CliveRothwell]

Mike - thanks. It's still quiet actually. I only noticed it whilst sorting a leaky cam cover gasket. The engine has covered 56000miles and has more new oil in it than Texas. The rest of the engine remains good, excellent compressions and still putting out 165bhp on a rolling road, using no oil or water. I'd double check the clearance and get a second opinion on the wear but having spent such a lot on the bodywork, it seems daft not to get the cam sorted. I'd be happier with a new cam and bearings as a minimum.
I'll phone SNG tomorrow - they don't list them as available online and ask for a call.
Cheers
Clive

[mike020150]

If the clearance is OK and there is no excess noise, why not measure the suspect lobe (base to tip) with a micrometer and compare the measurement with the others. If it's the same, it would suggest there's no need to replace the cam yet, especially on an engine which isn't doing a large annual mileage. When it does wear significantly, the extra audible accompaniment will give you lots of early warning that it's time to act. Mike.

[CliveRothwell]

yes, thanks Mike, that's a good technical answer similar to that given over the phone by Ken Jenkins. I'll give it a go once the weather warns up a bit.
Regards
Clive