XK8 Parts Review - XK8 / XKR Rear Suspension Layout

The rear suspension system of the Jaguar XK8 / XKR is generally working well in service. However, as the car ages, we are starting to hear of some problems with the CATS (Computer Active Technology Suspension) System cars and the interface with the electrical system not working possibly down to the shock absorber parts rotating and pulling off the connections.

Changing the rear shock absorbers can be difficult with the rear suspension having to be lowered and the required use of a slim spring compressor. The fulcrum pin holding the shock absorber in place may well have corroded and then needs to be cut off with an angle grinder.

However all can be resolved and we are pleased to announce that the rear suspension layout and the associated parts list can be reviewed and purchased via www.jaguarpartsdb.com

To view the XK8 and XKR Rear Suspension Parts Assembly, click HERE www.jaguarpartsdb.com

You may also be interested in our full Jaguar XK8 / XKR Parts Review relating to the common rear suspension problems. Click HERE.

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XK8 / XKR Parts Review - Rear Suspension Set Up

Introduction

The Jaguar XK8 and XKR Rear Suspension system has generally worked well in service. The assembly and associated parts are based on the proven Jag X300 system which in turn was based on the older Jag XJ40 system. However problems are starting to present which the XK8 / XKR owner needs to be aware of.

CATS (Computer Active Technology Suspension) System

The introduction of the CATS system was based on the older X300 rear suspension design. CATS manages and optimises the ride and handling of the XK8 / XKR car by means of uprated springs to increase the stiffness and electronic adaptive dampers under electronic control. Sensors at the front and rear of the car monitor the road and handling conditions and alter the electronic dampers to soften or stiffen the dampers. On start up the springs default to a stiffer setting and then under way on a smooth road, will soften. The settings will change in micro settings as braking, cornering and road conditions affect the car.

XK8 / XKR Suspension Problems

If you have a car fitted with CATS and the rear suspension is not working effectively then this can be a problem with the electrical connections from the shock absorber going into the wiring loom. Over time, the shock absorbers can actually rotate in service which may cause the electrical connections to be pulled off. This may necessitate the replacement of the shock absorbers part.

As with some other areas of the XK8 / XKR, changing the rear shock absorber parts is not as easy as it may look. Firstly, the rear suspension needs to be unbolted and lowered several inches. A special thin spring compressor is required to allow the release of the shock absorber from the spring unit. With the spring suitably compressed, the fulcrum pin can be removed which may well have seized in position. If this is the case, due to the severe lack of space in the area and the bottom of the spring compressor obstructing, this will have to be cut off with a small angle grinder

Jaguar XK8 / XKR Parts Review - Fulcrum Pin to the right which may have to be cut off.

To complete the removal of the shock absorbers, the rear tie bar needs to be removed together with the A -Frame safety plate. Also you will need to remove the nuts holding the top plate of the shock absorber spring pan.

These are main problems reported to date.

To view the XK8 and XKR Rear Suspension Parts Assembly, click here www.jaguarpartsdb.com

You may also be interested in our Jaguar XK8 / XKR Parts Review relating to the common front suspension problems.

Copywright - Jaguar XK8 and XKR Parts

XK8 Parts Review Front Suspension Layout and Parts

The front suspension of an XK8 / XKR is prone to a number of problems. We have already discussed in a previous post that wheel bearings are subject to early wear at around 30K miles. If there is play in the suspension, then this can be attributable to worn bushes. One problem that may arise is due to the top wishbone bushes seizing to the steel fulcrum pin. The combined seized unit then wearing away at the all alloy subframe. Once the subframe is worn, this is very expensive to replace. It is recommended to change the pin and top bushes and then protect the area with a product such as Waxoyl to prevent corrosion. Also, as the mileage of your car increases, then this may result in worn shock absorbers or broken springs. All these parts can be reviewed and purchased via www.jaguarpartsdb.com

Click HERE to view XK8 / XKR Front Suspension Parts at JaguarPartsDB

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XK8 Parts Review - Programme your Key Fob

If your key fob has been lost, failed or is just looking worn out and the XK8 part needs to be replaced then there is a procedure to be followed to programme the key fob for your XK8 / XKR car. A typical Jaguar Dealership will charge you for the programming procedure, possibly up to half an hour of time. However, the procedure is fairly straightforward as follows:

Pull the headlamp flasher stalk towards you and at the same time, turn the ignition key to position one. Then release the stalk and flash the lamps five times. Press any button on the fob and then turn off the ignition and the fob should be programmed. After five flashes, you should hear a noise from the security sounder and then also a bleep after you press each key on the fob.

You may also be interested in our XK8 / XKR Parts Review on the windows reset procedure - Click Here

Click Here to contact Dave Roche @ XK8 Parts if you need a replacement Key Fob or require any further details.

Jaguar XK8 and XKR Parts

XK8 / XKR Drivebelt Configuration

Noisy accessory drivebelts seems to have become a common Jaguar XK8 and V8 trait in recent years. This can be due to the general ageing of the belt but also to the belt having been soaked in coolant. Also check the teeth on the inner side of the belt for general deterioration. In my case, I removed the cap of the header tank too early and the long life coolant sprayed all over the engine compartment and onto the drivebelt. Coolant can also soak the belt if you are changing the water pump and / or the thermostat. The only reliable fix is to replace the belt together with the tensioner and a revised idler pulley. This is recommended to ensure a quiet operation. The work is quite straightforward and can all be done as a job on its own or as part of a water pump / thermostat change or general cooling system overhaul.

When purchasing the accessory belt, we recommend the genuine Jaguar XK8 part. If an aftermarket belt is used, it must be exactly the same length or the wear indicator built into the tensioner will not work properly.

CONTACT DAVE @ XK8 PARTS FOR THE BEST PRICES ON DRIVEBELTS INCLUDING THE XKR SUPERCHARGER DRIVEBELTS

XK8 and XKR Parts