www.jec.org.uk

Hi guys

I just wanted a quick opinion on the Chinese replica tools for changing the timing chains on the xk8. Please see the attached Image, is this ok despite the plastic Cam locks the rest looks just like the original kit.

Has anyone used this? the only difference i see is the plastic cam lock shape and they do not have a hole in the centre

Hi

Could you please let me know where you purchased your kit? Also if you have found it just as good as the "official" version? I am looking to purchase the same for my vehicle as my timing chains need replacing.

Many thanks in advance for your help.

Martin

There are loads of these kits available on ebay for relatively small money. Similarly, V8 crank pulley removal tools are also plentiful via the internet.

I can`t see there would be any issue with the locking bars being plastic as shown in the image above. As long as they are strong enough to resist a few seconds torsional load as the sprocket bolt is slackened, one could say they are fit for the purpose. Although probably of Chinese origin, they are probably good enough.

Mike K

Hi

Could you please let me know where you purchased your kit? Also if you have found it just as good as the "official" version? I am looking to purchase the same for my vehicle as my timing chains need replacing.

Many thanks in advance for your help.

Martin

Hi Martin, you can pick them up from ebay.. Dont pay any more then £40 for these after market tools, alternative is you can hire from JEC.

A little advice on the timing chain.. if your rocker covers have never been off, check the condition of all the bolts before opening yourself , if rusted your going to have quite a job without the right tools, especially for the bolts on the bottom. I

Regards

Hi I am just about to change my chains and tensioners, how did you get on with the Chinese tools ?.
Did you also lock the engine underneath in the flywheel?
Tony

Hi All I have just replaced my tensioners and chains this week , I purchased the lock down kit from e bay £38.00 (hippoproduct) the locking bars are made of metal and did the job well. I made my own crankshaft pulley puller and a tool to hold the pulley still whilst unbolting it. I didnt want to rely on the camshaft locking bars and timing wheel pin to stop the engine turning, the bolt is very tight approx 450 nm. getting that bolt out was the worst part of the job ! All finished and sounds great.
Tony

Very satisfying for you. Well done.

Mike K

Congratulations! You made the right decision by not relying on the cam locking and timing pin. Removing the crank pulley certainly requires decent strength locking tools. Happy XK motoring in 2018. Mike.

Here are some photographs of the timing chain replacement works, carried out by Member Tony Saunders from Cornwall, photos uploaded by Jim Mann

Here are some photographs of the timing chain replacement works, carried out by Member Tony Saunders from Cornwall, photos uploaded by Jim Mann

Thanks for the photo's,very useful.
Well done.
Have a good and safe New Year.
Andy