Replacing timing chain tensioners on X308 series engine.

[crisisjez]

As a new owner of one of these fabulous beasts the only negative is the little panic I get on every start up so I have plans to resolve this by replacing the plastic gubbins that causes the problem.
I have found this..............
http://jaguar.blackonyx.net/tech/timingchain.htm
.......... and would be interested in the opinions of those who have done the same as to its accuracy as a guide.
Secondly, there are several timing chain kits advertised on ebay, are these any good? or is it a main dealer part all the way.
Thanks

[NormanD]

Yes that is the only week point of our engines

Contact Bershire Jags (he is on eBay) direct on 0118-978-7896

He well supply all the parts you nead

There are some tools as well, if you are a memner of the Jaguar Enthusiast Club www.jec.org.uk or 0117-969-8186
you can hire them from them via Annie Jenkins [e-mail] or 01909-733209

[Jaguar steve]

Replacing the secondary timing chain tensioners alone is a relatively simple job. You'll need to hire or buy the crank locking pin and camshaft locking plate.

Remove cam covers and spark plugs.

Lower the steering rack if required, remove the crank position sensor, turn the engine to TDC and lock with the crank pin.

Lock the cams on the side you're working on.

Remove ex cam sprocket bolt, tensioner bolts, remove sprocket and chain and old tensioner.

Fit new tensioner, take up slack in chain, tighten sprocket bolt and release tensioner spring retainer.

Repeat on other side.

Clean up old gaskets and reuse - if you subsequently have oil leaks then is the time to fork out for new ones.

Refit crank sensor.

Turn engine over by hand at least 720 degrees.

Refit plugs and start up.

About 4 hours work including coffee and thinking time.

[NormanD]

Jaguar steve said:

Lower the steering rack if required, remove the crank position sensor, turn the engine to TDC and lock with the crank pin.


About 4 hours work including coffee and thinking time.

Providing the steering rack bolts come out OK, going into Ally they can be a bit of a bu**er

[Jaguar steve]

NormanD said:

Jaguar steve said:

Lower the steering rack if required, remove the crank position sensor, turn the engine to TDC and lock with the crank pin.


About 4 hours work including coffee and thinking time.

Providing the steering rack bolts come out OK, going into Ally they can be a bit of a bu**er

But they don't on the XJ - the rack is mounted on the pressed steel subframe. You only need to drop it a few mm to access the crank sensor more easily. If you like making a job more difficult than it needs to be you could probrably fiddle and fumble the sensor out without moving the rack at all.