Tensioners -- yes but when?

[RichardSEL]

Eventually, after buying and selling a 4.0L LWB with only 73k on the clock and three previous (buyer was delighted -- gawd, it didn't half shift) got round to getting my 3.2L '01MY checked out by Paul at Hyper Transformations nr. Thame. £60 for the check and another £400 if plastic top tensioner found -- result! Had either been already done, or was OEM.

Had the ATF and filter changed, and the plugs for my supplied new NGKs. He checked the brake fluid for hydroscopics (what check is this?) and said system didn't need flush out and refill. Also had the top and bottom ARB joints / rubbers done (joints complete I believe since if they're dropped they might as well be changed not just the rubbers?) All of that and a fresh MOT for £700 inc VAT. Not too bad in today's prices from someone who's been around in the Jaguar scene for just a few years

Given the result above had the driver's door ratchet strap replaced -- apparently welding's needed. Had a look at what was removed. The fracture is on each of the right angle fixing brackets either side. Those brackets are made of that horrid un-repairable metal mix (whatever it's name is)

Course, had to put the pedal to the metal -- although it's only 240bhp and done 121k it still was as impressive as my Passat that I've had tuned to 232bhp (on dyno) given that it's carrying around a whole lot more weight. Is it worth getting a re-map on these? Is it even possible?

After 10 years of Germany's characterless finest as a daily -- looking forward to long term with this X308 -- well at least until I judge I'm just too geriatric and not safe to be on the road

[J44EAG]

The hygroscopic refers to water content of the brake fluid which is best replaced every three years to avoid corrosion within the system.

You should be able to remap the ECU through the OBD port on this model. I had it done to the S-type and it made a much more drivable car. Tom Lenthall at Finchampsted can provide the service via Gerald Morten of Viezu Berkshire who operates from Toms premises. Reckon to pay around £600 for a reflash.

Mike

[ptjs1]

Richard,

Well done on finding out that your top tensioners have been changed for metal ones.

As you're now considering other issues and enhancements on the car, you might want to start new threads in order to keep this thread focused on the original issue of tensioner replacement timing.

Good luck with the car.

Paul

[RichardSEL]

Am going up to Coventry then the Vulcan on May 24th -- so it'll be only my 2nd or 3rd longish trip in it
But it did return 26mpg mixed mode light foot so can't complain

Yes, do tend to wibble a bit when posting -- did you bring any biscuits?