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1st GearNew members: make an initial post and introduce yourself as you shift from Neutral to First Gear. Current members: meet some of the new members.
Make sure you keep up on maintenance, and it should treat you well.
Post purchase, I’ve read a little bit about the timing chain/tensioner being an issue with this engine. Should I look into getting that replaced asap? Or just monitor oil volume and changes? This is the only thing which spooks me a bit about the purchase.
TO check the chain, insert the special tool in place of the tensioner, snug the center post against the chain, then remove the whole tool without disturbing the center post. Compare length of the tool again the new tensioner, and it should tell you if the new tensioner is all you need at this point. The new tensioner should be longer than what was measured with the tool.
After checking the timing chain, I would start on a 5000 mile oil change routine going forward.
It’s now a year owning and driving the JCW. It’s a spare car, so it’s for enjoyment and doesn’t get driven daily.
I recently had the timing chain tensioner replaced. Also had the rear swaybar bushings and endlinks replaced. A/c needed a recharge. And today this…
It hit 60k.
5000 miles in a year and what a joy this car is to drive. Gearbox is one of the best gearboxes of any car I’ve owned. Been tempted to autocross it but I’m enjoying it on the weekends just fine on the public roads.
Cheers.
Last edited by RedlineR56; Jun 25, 2025 at 07:32 AM.
