I have looked through the forum topics but have not seen any reference to the "R Performance Package" for the XK8 XKR X100. I trust I have not missed something. This is my first post.
I own a near immaculate 2001 model year XK8 which has done 50k miles, of which I am very proud and which gives me a many hours of driving pleasure over the weekends.
I am based in lovely Verona, the city of Romeo & Juliet where I believe the JEC will be heading come September, should Covid'19 give us a break.
Over the years I have tuned by car with the following R Performance options and others goodies:
R Performance:
- 20" BBS Detroit wheels and integrated small correct rear mud guards
- correct Jaguar grey Brembo 4 pot callipers, discs and pads Brakes
- Goodrich steel braided hoses
- specific R hubs and dust guards for Brembos
- correct aluminium pedals and gear surround
- British Parts UK full replacement bushes (rubber) & ball joints
- Recaro Ivory seats (actually available from the 2002 XK8, so not actually correct! I have replaced the front seats only with the Recaro seats (A sin to many but I could not resist the temptation).
Arden tuning packages:
- Arden Cat back full stainless steel exhaust
- Arden lowering springs
The car still has its original dampers.
I have few questions and would like some confirmations. I hope I am not abusing everyone's patience:
1) I understand that the R Performance was available for both the a) XK8 and b) XKR models from 1999. Is this correct?
2) In addition I understand that there are 2 Performance packages 1) the basic kit which covered just the BBS wheels and 4 pot Brembo brakes and the more complete driving kit 2) which covers the steering and suspension. I understand that both kits are available for both the XK8 and XKR. Correct?
3) By definition does the more complete R Performance driving kit ALWAYS include CATS dampers? Was it possible to have the XK8 (not XKR) complete package without CATS dampers?
4) Re the complete driving kit I understand that the following exhaustive list of parts are included:
- Aluminium door handles in place of chrome
- Aluminium pedals and footrest (2 options for the footrest)
- Aluminium dial surrounds 3 large and 3 small
- ZF R Rack and Pinion for more precise steering
- R Performance special electronic tuning module
- Suspension dampers CATS? Or on the XK8 possible without CATS suspension?
- Recaro seats (from 2002)
- R gear change knob
- R front and rear special anti roll bar
Have I left anything out from the driving kit? Is there anything else I need to source to get to the correct R full package for an XK8?
5) I have recently been able to purchase a used R Performance Rack & Pinion which I will refurbish to new: MXD3901AB. I was told this was accompanied on the doner car by the LJB2100BA module. I understand though the correct match would be the LXD2100AA module. How do things actually stand?
6) I note that people frequently confuse the R of the XKR to mean that the car actually has the R Performance package. I understand this not so. Am I right? The R Performance package was an add on to the XKR too. Correct?
7) I am looking for NEW dampers to mate with the R Performance package and XK8. What should I go for? I understand that the Bilsteins could be an option. Moss is selling the following on ebay a) REAR: JAGUAR XK8 X100 REAR DAMPERS BILSTEIN 20-070823 2003-2006 "R Performance" they say b) FRONT JAGUAR XK8 X100 FRONT DAMPERS BILSTEIN 20-070816 1996-2006 "R Performance". Would these go with my car? Anyone suggests something different? I am looking for a sporty ride and racy feel.
I will stop for now and trust in your learned help to me.
I few points. One could ask why didn't I simply purchase a complete the works XKR instead of upgrading? It started 9 years ago when I purchased the car and slowly upgrading and TLC means my car is not really replaceable. Additionally one could say I have done preventive maintenance upgrading at the same time.
One thing I got wrong is the rear ride height, I believe that should have kept the car some 5mm higher at the rear.
I also own a perfectly conserved 1992 Regency Red Daimler Double Six which is currently being mechanically brought back to pristine condition. It has been many months into the making.
Thank you all for your help and support and I really hope I am going about asking questions the right way.
Ken
