Thinking about tackling the timing chain, tensioner, and guide replacement on your Jaguar XK8’s AJ-V8 engine? This Modurol video provides a quick but comprehensive run-through of the entire process, from initial checks to the final engine start!
We’ll give you a clear understanding of what’s involved, covering all the key stages of this complex but essential maintenance task. We’ll outline the tools, procedures, and potential challenges you’ll encounter.
To make this process even easier, we’ve included QR code links throughout the video, directing you to our more detailed, step-by-step videos for each specific stage. This allows you to dive deeper into any area you need more information on.
In this video, Episode 48 (EP48) we’ll cover:
A complete overview of the timing chain, tensioner, and guide replacement process.
Essential tools and equipment required.
Key steps and procedures for each stage.
Potential challenges and how to overcome them.
Tips for checking and ensuring a successful replacement.
Starting the engine after the job is complete.
QR code links to detailed videos for each stage.
Whether you’re planning to DIY or simply want to understand the process, this video will give you a clear picture of what’s involved in replacing the timing gear on your Jaguar XK8’s AJ-V8 engine.
Key points covered:
Complete overview of the timing chain replacement process.
Tools and procedures involved.
QR code links to detailed stage-by-stage videos.
#JaguarXK8 #AJV8 #TimingChains #Tensioners #Guides #EngineRepair #DIY #CarRepair #Automotive #Jaguar #XK8 #CarMaintenance #ClassicCars #TimingBelt #QRcode #AJV8Timing
The link to the playlist of all the timing chain videos is here :
Upgrade cam tensioners, guides and chains (Task by task videos of the process I used).
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCgwrY7zZri_uC215m1qTmi-il_fx1OC7
This is the index with links to videos mentioned
0:00 Introduction
03:07 Get a copy of the manual – Find a free copy at www.modurol.co.uk
05:23 Fact about AJ-V8 timing gear – https://youtu.be/f3wAGev6tPQ
06:33 Checking tensioners Remove RH cover https://youtu.be/LJviGKV3MLw
07:31 Remove the bonnet https://youtu.be/vIr4QIZX_LM
08:11 Cooling Fan assembly removal https://youtu.be/E4QAGxN-wj0
08:30 Remove auxiliary/accessary belt https://youtu.be/nnlGqV9ysJ4
08:46 Remove crankshaft ‘harmonic’ pulley https://youtu.be/pkdMoVC0zII
10:37 Make your own tools https://youtu.be/PRiABhZAYkA
10:47 Selecting neutral gear https://youtu.be/5k1PsAEEuXw
10:54 Lift the car https://youtu.be/th-1vcqQU1A
11:34 Remove LHS cam cover https://youtu.be/2_h8iOSAbSk
11:35 Buying Locking and crank pulley tools https://youtu.be/pDxH4IzvzsU
12:20 Locking the timing https://youtu.be/pDxH4IzvzsU
13:58 Remove water pump pulley https://youtu.be/ZD1KBcNVv_M
14:17 Remove front cover https://youtu.be/vhYbvMpjs6Y
14:53 Remove timing chains https://youtu.be/MawsNLp0awg
15:15 Timing kits https://youtu.be/GRHkhWlWr5M
16:00 Fitting new timing gear https://youtu.be/npWJ-SwHmbA
18:13 Reset VVT https://youtu.be/e7sJ-pym-a0
19:38 Fitting engine cover https://youtu.be/iVWM9Ad3mLc
20:50 Upgrading to Stainless https://youtu.be/6ft8z7sBbZ0
21:17 Fitting crankshaft pulley https://youtu.be/Ua62TuLvlq0
23:26 Fitting LHS cam cover https://youtu.be/3pL07sQzMkQ
24:00 Fitting RHS cam cover https://youtu.be/9xEmcrePOAY
25:01 Fitting Water pump https://youtu.be/9YgpRwfpJ3o
25:30 Fitting Thermostat https://youtu.be/VuGm8Bb8pKc
25:38 Upgrade coolant tower https://youtu.be/dncoTm6uElw
26:14 Fitting aux belt and pulleys https://youtu.be/0zWqRCqw8JI
26:46 Fitting cooling fans assembly/pack https://youtu.be/5k7Xsr7xKOc
27:00 Fitting air filter https://youtu.be/ExPzwrTj-T8
27:10 Refill coolant https://youtu.be/eIDJholOW-E
28:03 Engine oil and filter change https://youtu.be/Gr2aMnVEZGQ
28:26 Checking Oil sump for debris https://youtu.be/5bfIhz4tcSM
29:03 Fitting hood https://youtu.be/Ccl9lQxHO7Y
29:18 Aligning the hood https://youtu.be/FpH0DjlxKQc
29:47 First start up after the change https://youtu.be/YlSFcVx5pFI
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This channel is dedicated to all things Jaguar XK8, from maintenance and DIY guides to in-depth reviews and restoration projects. Join me as we explore the beauty and intricacies of this iconic British sports car.
Always consult your vehicle’s service manual and follow safety precautions when working on your car. This video is for informational purposes only.
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Hey Damian. Thanks for the replies. I have noted the reply. Here is a link to the noise but I am in agreement with your assessment.
https://youtube.com/shorts/mTpm36O9gvY
Hi Damian. I wanted you advice. So I believe my 01 Vanden Plas jumped a tooth when the plastic tensioner broke. This was about a year ago or a little more. Immediately the car acted weird like it wanted to stall. I had a long freeway drive home and it felt like the car was not getting enough fuel in the engine. The timing has since been redone. The passenger catalytic converter was bad and had to be replaced. The fuel rail showed low pressure and the fuel pump was replaced. The car still feels held back and less power. The power has improved with the pump. The passenger o2 sensors failed a lot. I have replaced them 3 times. This was before that and coverter and before the fuel pump. I know we discussed that this might be a bent piston, valve or scoured cylinder wall. And it may be. In fact the engine does not sound good. It sounds like a Harley Davidson idling. I wanted to ask if you think it might be the plugs or the o2 sensors or something fuel related. The guy that did the timing thinks so. I have no one to look at it for the cylinder wall or bent valve scenario. The mechanic said the plugs were yellow on the bottom. They were replaced before the fuel pump and these are the ones that are yellow. I think I'm still getting o2 sensor codes but I have replaced them at least twice. The fuel pump helped and the timing kit helped. I'd like this car to run how it ran when I bought it. Ever since it had the freeway problem it has been like this. The dealer will not look at it. Only one has a mechanic that knows these cars and because they only use OEM parts they say he cannot look at it since OEM parts are not available much for this.
Thanks for sharing, will be changing chains soon . Where you buy the parts from?
Hey its me again. I had rhe timing done. But we ordered the wrong oil seal. I ordered a replacement cylinder bore and would like to replace the oil seal when I have it installed. Would you know the part number or oart name for the oil seal on the front of the engine?
May I ask, you mentioned a bad cylinder bore could be responsible for my problems. In you experience is that likely the extent of it or is it possible that my piston will be damaged or???
Damian thank you for taking the time to answer and for your videos. We were already talking about bore wear and loss of power on my 2001 Jaguar VDP. I do not have the Aj26 I have the AJ27. So would bore wear still factor in to this? I will try to change the fuel filter and then run injector cleaner. It does sound the bore wear (the noise) when I compare it in a youtube video. I was told I would have to replace the block if thats the case.
Had another question. My 2001 Vanden Plas X308 was retimed with a kit by a work at home mechanic. I have no idea how these are to be timed. It was misfiring on one entire side cylinders 1-4 before it was redone with a new timing kit. I'm wondering it the chains were put on incorrectly because it seems to have lost some compression and power although the misfires have mostly gone and not no misfire codes. I can still feel a slight misfire around 50-60 MPH. I replaced the plugs and the coils. But still same thing. How can you know for sure if the timing is off?
Apologoes for asking for online diagnosis. My X308 was misfiring on cylinders 1-4. Most notably at 50 mph with a sometimes rough idle. It was retimed with a kit. The guy said it had jumped a little. I can still feel a small shudder at 50 mph. Its not nearly as bad. Its very light. I plan to replace the plugs and coils. Any thoughts on the problem being way better but still lightly shuddering at 50 mph?
Ok. thank you. i am havig the timing done. I had a misfire cylinder 1-4. I'm hoping the timong will correct this. Any thoughts?
Is it neccesary to replace the harmonic balancer bolt during this repair. I have heard that it is. The problem is we do not have a replacement and I'm not sure how long it will be to get one.
Great video. I'm starting this job this week on an XJ. . Will follow your videos
Had an 2002 75k miles. Went to store came out ran ruff,made it home exhaust manifold very hot. About 7 blocks home. Had towed to shop consensus was a sensor. Later confirmed timing chain issues. Maybe 4 phone calls said please under $3000. One from them saying sent heads out got back did it wrong so took somewhere else. After 1 year and over and shop saying we will take care of you we have had it so long. Received call about 13 months said car is done 2016 feb-March your bill $6750. I had told them $3000 . No calls to say it would be more so I could say no stop. The car was on a rebuilt title nice but rebuilt. Tried legal no help so walked away.