XK8 Timing chain noises

[ajmac]

hmmm, there is a definate 'tapping' and 'clacking' from the front of the cam cover area on start up and if you blip the throttle whilst listening close up to the front cover. I've rebuild and modified all sorts of engines over the years and this definatly isn't a happy noise:-)
I've heard of the problems with secondary timing chain tensioners, but does anyone here know what the tell tail signs are and what EXACTLY happens to the tensioner. By the looks of things I can change the tensioner without removing the timing cover, via top end access - which is nice - after all the engine has only done 60k!

Alastair

[ajmac]

Also...
Where is the best place to get XK8 spares, are main dealer the only source or are there a few independants?

Alastair

[John Millar]

www.jag-lovers.org/snaps/snap_view.php3?id=1105723471

www.jag-lovers.org/snaps/snap_view.php3?id=1108437232

www.roadfly.org/jaguar/gallery/picture.php?path=31761,1;0,1;

The noise you hear is probably the VVT operating, pull of the electrical connectors on one side at a time to see if the noise goes away when blipping the throtle.

Whatever you find out, the sec.tensioners should be replaced to prevent one of these failures.

[railtracksport]

hello
there is no way to change chain tensioner without removing front cover
try oil change
worn tensioner can make t chain chatter
hope this is of help
regards john