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Xk8/Nikosil

Hello group,

I'm giving serious thought to selling/trading my '91 XJ-S "Collection Classic" and picking up an XK8. I'd originally thought I'd like a '97 or '98, but I've been told there were some problems with the Nikosil linings, especially on cars used primarily for "multiple, short journeys"...

My questions for the collective wisdom of the group:

1) FIRST off, is that true about the Nikosil? How much of a problem IS it?

2) I was also told that, starting in 2000, the cylinder linings were replaced with cast-iron. However, the local dealer says that HIS

2000 is Nikosil. DID they change? What model year or build dates would be cast iron?

3) Anyone interested in a '91 XJ-S?? :-)

Thanks...

Reply to
Philip Bailey
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It was mainly a problem with using gas/petrol with high sulphur content. The high levels of sulphur would damage the linings and reduce the compression until the engine wouldn't start. A jag dealer can perform a very simple blow by test which measures if there has been any damage. The general concencus of opinion is that if a Nikasil engine hasn't been replaced yet then it's unlikely to need it at any time in the future. Providing a Nikasil lined engine has been properly maintained and not run on high sulphur content fuel it is and will remain as reliable as any other. Nice, free revving engines by the way.

Jaguar stopped the Nikasil liners with the 2000 model year which they started manufacturing and delivering in Sept 1999. There is a cast iron (excuse the pun) method of determining. If the last six digits of the VIN start with the letter F then it has cast iron liners. Your local dealer could have bought one in 2000 with Nikasil liners but he for sure got a

1999 model.

No thanks :)

Reply to
XJ8SE

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