Timing chain?

Hi there

I have a 1997 XK8 that I have had for 4 years. On starting and initially setting off there has always been a very slight rattle. I didn't think much about this as it went within seconds. Normally I store the car over winter, but this year I'm driving it - I started it today and the rattle is there and it lasts a lot longer - it did go away, but my research leads me to think this could be a timing chain issue. Would this be right? Curiously, when I start up when cold the car also says low oil pressure until it is warmed up a little - not sure if these are linked. Anyone else had similar? I'm not driving the car until I find out what it is of course

Thanks for any help

John

It is likely the timing chain or the timing chain tensioner. Take it to a local Jaguar dealer or repair shop.

The 2000-2002 XK8s had a better timing chain while the 2003 models have a much better 4.2 liter V-8.

That tensioner is one of the biggest pieces of crap to ever be placed in an engine. Mine went out and sent a connecting rod in search of light. Anyhow, the simple fix would have been that they make the whole damn thing out of metal. Problem solved. Anyhow, its a cheap part and the piece of mind that comes with replacing it is certainly worth it, even if it isn't the big problem. After I replaced the engine and got everything working again, I would have some issues with a slight rattle when I started it up on cold days. It just took a few minutes of warmup to get the oil flowing and everything was golden.

Goodluck,
Chris

bro, have you jag checked over a trusted local mechanic. yep it could be a timing chain or a timing chain tensioner. chances are, you need to replace them. :banghead:

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