Failing chain tensioners, and no noise!

[heebee]

Just had a lucky escape...

I picked up my 2001 XJ8 about 2 weeks ago, and after reading a lot about chain tensioners, decided it was a priority to check the condition of mine. There was no noise from the chains, and the engine seemed to run really well. It's even verging on economical.

I booked it in with XJK in Newcastle-under-Lyme, and it would appear the engine was close to disaster! The tensioners were so worn that the chains were rubbing on the metal below the slippers, and need changing.

As this involves taking the timing cover off, I'm getting the main chains and the rest of the tensioners changed at the same time, as well as the water pump (it comes off for the job anyway, so it makes sense to upgrade it to the one with metal impellers).

XJK seem to charge a very decent (as in reasonable) price for this job, and they seem extremely knowledgeable. I'll let you know how I get on.

Love the car to bits: its an ideal family-focused replacement for my MGB GT V8...although that was a lot cheaper to work on.

[joejag308]

Heebee........sensible having the Tensioner /water pump done but dont forget to change the thermostat............Joe

[daveji]

As a matter of interest what mileage has your car covered ?

[heebee]

It has covered about 86,000 miles. Apparently the top chains were badly worn, and had probably been running on metal for some time. It's a 4.0 litre, I don't know if the VVT puts any more force on the chains?

The only outward clue, according to XJK, was a slightly rough idle when cold, but there were no untoward noises.

I'll be well pleased when this work is done, as it'll give me more confidence in the car.

I shall change the thermostat myself, once its back...