Buying a XJR V8

[stevep944]

I know it's an old subject, but...
Thinking very seriously of an XJR here, but having read all about the V8 engine problems with Nikasil linings, not too sure.
Ideally I would need a car registered from Sept 2000 onwards to avoid this, but then the road tax is going up hugely for those registered after March 2001. Small window.
My question is - is the Nikasil problem really a concern with well maintained cars, especially if the mileage is reasonably low? Or is it simply to be avoided at all costs!!
I don't intend doing too many miles in the car, and there are lots of 1998-99 examples for sale at very good prices at the moment.
Alternative I suppose is to find the older 6 cyl version instead - any thoughts?
Any advice welcome, either to confirm my fears or ease them!
Thanks
Steve

[P700DEE]

Nikasil damage is caused by Sulphur in fuel , and this was effectively over by 2000 when we moved to low Sulphur fuel. Any car with significant damage to the linings has long since died. Watch however for very low mileage cars as it was very short journeys coupled to High Sulphur petrol that made Jaguars issue worse than Porsche and BMW who also used Nikasil. Some Jaguar engines may have been misdiagnosed too ! The V8s are very easy to flood which washes the oil from the bores and gives you no compression unless you floor the throttle and wait for the oil pressure to build up. Just like a Nikasil failure to the unwise. Nikasil engines that are good will outlast steel linered engines so if in doubt ask for a blow by test and buy with confidence.

[Big Rumbly]

Great bargain, you should definitely consider one, I've had mine for 18 months, had the tensioners done as precaution. Read Broadbeans buying guide, and search for other buying advice, theres plenty in this forum, happy hunting. Nikasil not much of an issue now, will have been sorted, or didnt suffer from it.

[stevep944]

Thanks guys very helpful. Not so much of a worry then.
I'll look up some of the other buying guide stuff too.

[x200sxy]

If nayhting go for the V8 with higher mileage. But best of all get the XJR-6.

[groomi]

Nikasil isn't really anything to worry about any more (most cars that are going to suffer will have done so by now), however the timing chain problem is a BIG concern - but easily overcome by budgeting for a replacement as soon as you have purchased.

Check out Broadbean747's post and all the associated threads.

[andrewrob]

I have heard that an easy way to tell is the amount of time it takes the car to start when you are turning over. Once it starts loosing compression there is a noticable difference. They should turn over and fire with in a second or two.

Also phone Jaguar to check the cars history. I have seen a few that have had new steel lined engines installed by Jaguar under warranty and the garage selling it didnt even know as it was just a part exchange.