Rear Axle shaft universal joints MOT failure

[jazzdj64315]

Hi all. My 05 XK8 has failed MoT for having wear/play in rear axle UJ, tester explained they form part of the suspension, hence failure. I was wondering if this is a fair point/decision, and if so are there replacement parts available - new or reconditioned.
Also, are the UJs available separately or are the whole shafts single pieces.

Thanks.

[andypryce]

Hi, they are certainly listed as a component, see link below, but seems a bit odd, as failure would be more likely on the bushes or springs. As to how easy to replace, no idea I am afraid, a good Jaguar independent should be able to advise?
https://www.britishparts.co.uk/classic- ... nt-jlm1388

[ptjs1]

jazzdj64315,

The same UJs have been on the rear drive shafts of all the Jag Saloons and Sports from the 80s up to your car.

As regards how difficult, it depends if it's the inner or outer one that is worn. You might be able to do the outer one just pulling the driveshaft end out of the hub. If it's the inner one, you'll need to disconnect the drive shaft from the diff. It's not difficult.

If it were me, I'd pull the driveshaft and change both UJS whilst it was out.

Good luck

Paul

[Astromorg]

The half shafts do indeed form the upper suspension links and the U/Js can be replaced using spares as shown by Andy.
In principle it's a straightforward job, though in practice the nuts securing the shaft to the diff output flange can be awkward to access and get enough torque on them to get them off! A six sided socket is recommended.
The nut on the hub end of the shaft is a use-once type, required torque is 304 - 336 Nm. Tight!
Getting the U/Js apart and re-assembling them is best done with a press, but G cramps, hammers and drifts could get you through!
You don't say what mileage this has happened at, but I don't think it's a common problem. It may be the result of insufficient servicing in the form of greasing them at yearly/10,000 mile intervals as grease nipples are a bit of a novelty to today's service stations!
If you would like a copy of the of the workshop manual covering the work in detail, I can get a copy to you
I see SNG Barratts have shafts on special order for about £80. Auto Reserve Jaguar have used ones for £25 and repair kits at £17 per joint. Can't find any refurbished, but it would be worth asking Auto Reserve as they do refurbish some stuff.
As Paul says, replacing all four would be best at this stage.

[jazzdj64315]

Thanks all. I'll have a look into the available spares, and look for a garage locally that want the work. I'm not sure I've got the facility to try this myself. Thanks.

[jazzdj64315]

@Astromorg - Could I take you up on the offer of the detailed workshop manual for this work, or indeed all work on the XK8 please. Let me know if you require anything from me to facilitate that. Thanks again, Julian

[Astromorg]

I forgot when I posted my earlier answer that the 2003 - 2006 Manual is available within this link

www.jagrepair.com

Click on Jaguar XK8 XKR 1997 - 2006 in the centre column

This site is a really useful form of online technical library that covers many Jaguar models to a greater or lesser degree. Created by Gus Glikas, an American enthusiast, for our X100 models it has all versions of the electrical diagrams and all the TSBs issued by Jaguar over the years plus much more.

[mike020150]

Before you go to the trouble of replacing the UJs, it would be worth getting a Jaguar specialist to check that the MoT tester hasn't mistaken acceptable freeplay in the diff output bearings for UJ wear. Not all testers are familiar with the Jaguar suspension arrangements and mistakes have been known to be made. Mike.

[darryl1959371]

Hello,
Yes, UJ's sometimes Fail usually Due Lack of Greasing and is a Vital Part of the Rear Suspension,You should have Felt Slight Vibration and getting Worse...???
Look in the Hard Spicer Catalogue as they Manufacture Identical UJ's for Commercial Trucks and are Heavy Duty. Order Only Direct from Factory to Avoid Cheap Copies etc...( Four Required ) and be careful to note ALL THE SHIMS ETC..AS THEY FORM PART OF THE SUSPENSION GOEMETRY, Protective Shields are Available in 2 Halves which can be fitted with Axle in Situ . Get Axel Geometry Checked Professionally After Fitting
Good Luck,
Best Regards,
Darryl ( Bristol Region )