Jaguar XK8/XKR AJ-V8 timing chain kit

Jaguar XJ8, XK8 and XKR 4.0 V8 Timing Chain Kit

The main product images and the base price show the basic timing chain kit. You can upgrade this kit by selecting the additional options shown above the Add to Cart button.

This is an upgraded timing chain kit for Jaguar AJ8 and AJ-V8 4.0 V8 engines. It includes the latest metal-backed timing chain tensioner and guide design developed to replace the earlier weak plastic parts.

Choose the Correct Timing Chain Kit

Fits Jaguar models listed below. We offer two options depending on your engine code, engine number or production date:

• Before 07/2001: engines produced between 1997 and 07/2001
• After 07/2001: engines produced after 07/2001

Important: We offer optional German SWAG (FEBI) primary chains, crankshaft seal and timing cover seals only with the BEFORE 2001 option. Do not select this option if your engine requires the chain used AFTER 2001.

Please select the correct option before ordering.

Basic Timing Chain Kit Contents

The basic kit is supplied with the main timing chain components required to replace the original timing system. The kit design is based on the latest metal tensioner and guide upgrade.

• Primary timing chains
• Secondary timing chains
• Metal-backed timing chain guides
• Updated metal timing chain tensioners
• Two camshaft sprockets — one for each cylinder bank
• Additional timing sprockets and mounting hardware where supplied with the selected kit

Unlike many timing chain kits, this package includes two camshaft sprockets, one for each bank. Always compare the complete contents of a timing kit before ordering because some sellers supply the chains, guides and tensioners without replacing the camshaft sprockets.

Optional SWAG Chains, Crankshaft Seal and Timing Cover Seals

If you added the SWAG chains, crankshaft seal and timing cover seals option, you will receive this timing chain kit:

Latest Metal Tensioner and Guide Upgrade

This is an upgraded timing chain kit design which resolves the problems associated with the earlier plastic tensioners and guides.

This is the third upgraded version and the latest upgrade for the pre-2002 models. Jaguar produced this updated design for the AJ8 and AJ-V8 engines listed below.

The original plastic parts can become brittle and crack with age. Jaguar updated the timing chain tensioners and changed the original plastic guides to a metal-backed design. This is the latest third-generation design supplied with this kit.

The base kit includes the latest metal timing chain tensioner upgrade. This helps replace the earlier weak plastic components that are commonly found on older Jaguar 4.0 V8 engines.

This timing chain kit fits the earlier 4.0 V8 engines produced before 2002. Jaguar changed the timing chain design after 2002.

This timing chain kit fits engines up to engine number 0108122359. See the explanation below.

German aftermarket product.

Old weak plastic tensioners:

After the metal tensioner upgrade:

Compatible Jaguar 4.0 V8 Models

• Jaguar S-Type 4.0L 3996cc 244cu. in. V8
• Jaguar Vanden Plas 4.0L 3996cc 244cu. in. V8
• Jaguar Vanden Plas 4.0L 3996cc 244cu. in. V8 DOHC supercharged
• Jaguar XJ8 4.0L 3996cc 244cu. in. V8
• Jaguar XJR 4.0L 3996cc 244cu. in. V8 DOHC supercharged
• Jaguar XK8 4.0L 3996cc 244cu. in. V8
• Jaguar XKR 4.0L 3996cc 244cu. in. V8 supercharged

Optional Crankshaft Counterhold and Camshaft Locking Tool

An optional crankshaft counterhold and camshaft locking tool is available at an extra cost.

Important: The crankshaft damper holding tool will not fit the supercharged engines. We are working on an additional 303-192 adapter which can be used with the same tool. Once this adapter is available for the XKR engines, the tool picture below will be updated.

ONLY ADD THIS TOOL TO YOUR CART IF YOU SELECT THE OPTION ABOVE THE ADD TO CART BUTTON. IF YOU DO NOT SEE THIS OPTION AVAILABLE, IT IS TEMPORARILY OUT OF STOCK.

Timing Chain Difference

How to Identify the Correct Chain by Engine Number

If you are still unsure which kit you need, check your engine number. Locate the engine number and find the bottom line showing the engine serial number.

• Serial number up to 0108122359: select the timing chain kit for BEFORE 07/2001.
• Serial number higher than 0108122359: select the timing chain kit for AFTER 07/2001.

All XK8 and XKR models with an engine serial number lower than 0108122359 use the timing chain kit for BEFORE 07/2001. If the serial number is higher than 0108122359, select the kit for AFTER 07/2001.

See the explanation below: