Positioning:
The Jaguar XK8 (X100) was positioned as a luxury grand tourer, combining performance, comfort, and elegant styling.
Design:
Classic Jaguar styling with a long hood, sweeping lines, and a distinctive grille.
Powertrain:
Smooth and powerful 4.0-liter V8 engine paired with a refined automatic transmission.
Interior:
Luxurious interior appointments, often featuring leather and wood trim.
Purpose:
To provide comprehensive technical information for the maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of the 1997 Jaguar XK8.
Engine:
4.0L V8 AJ-V8 Engine (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Management:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Ignition System, Fuel System, Emission Controls
Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 5HP24)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front and Rear Independent Suspension, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (TCS)
Steering:
Power Assisted Steering System
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starter, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams
Climate Control:
HVAC System, Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Chassis Frame
Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Interior Electronics
Safety Systems:
Airbags (SRS), Seat Belts
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Common Issues and Solutions
Repair:
Step-by-Step Repair Instructions for all major systems
Disassembly:
Component Removal and Disassembly Procedures
Assembly:
Component Reassembly Procedures
Cleaning:
Component Cleaning and Preparation
Reinstallation:
Component Reinstallation Procedures
Specifications:
Critical Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Alignment Data
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics.
Engine Code:
AJ-V8 (Naturally Aspirated)
Configuration:
4.0 Liter V8
Displacement:
3996 cc (243.8 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm (3.39 in x 3.39 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.75:1
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Horsepower:
290 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
290 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, Premium Octane (91 AKI or higher recommended)
Certification:
NHTSA and IIHS ratings for this era may vary; detailed crash test data for 1997 models is often found in separate databases.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
TCS:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (SRS)
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point Seat Belts with Pretensioners
Audio System:
Premium sound systems were available, often with CD players and premium speaker brands (e.g., Alpine, Harman Kardon).
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system was available for this model year.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio and basic vehicle controls.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended at 60,000-100,000 miles or as per manual, especially for the ZF automatic transmission.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (verify with manual for exact Jaguar specification).
Coolant Type:
Jaguar specified Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Jaguar Coolant XF-M).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (Low Viscosity)
Timing Chain Tensioners:
Early AJ-V8 engines (including the 4.0L) are known for potential degradation of plastic timing chain tensioners, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Replacement with updated metal tensioners is a critical preventative measure.
Coolant Leaks:
Plastic thermostat housing and water pump components can become brittle and prone to leaks.
Transmission Issues:
The ZF 5HP24 transmission is generally robust but can develop issues related to mechatronics units or solenoid packs if fluid is not maintained.
Coil On Plug Ignition:
Coil-on-plug ignition systems can be prone to failure, leading to misfires. Regular inspection and replacement as needed is advised.
Heritage:
Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for building elegant, sporty, and luxurious grand touring cars.
Predecessor:
The XK8 replaced the Jaguar XJS.
Platform:
Introduced on the X100 platform, which was a significant departure from the XJS.
Production Years:
1996-2006 (XK8/XKR)
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
