don't post very often anymore, but wanted to share some info which might help someone seeing as there isn't much around about the 2.8.
Just replaced the timing chain on the Paj (big job, sump and diff dropped to help access!)
It was original and with 350k km on the clock so really needed it. I had been listening to the rattle get louder for a little while and pulled off the rocker cover to confirm this was the cause and found that the tensioner guide wasn't doing much anymore.
it was that stretched that the valve timing was quite retarded. Since replacing it the following is noticeable.
torque much better low down (doesn't complain pulling from 1500rpm)
much less smoke on high load with low revs
cold starting vastly improved (used to cycle the plugs 2 or 3 times, now can hit the starter as soon as the light goes out!)
much better economy (1.5 > 2L /100km improvement) that would also be partly due to driving style now that i can rev it 500rpm lower in each gear without it complaining/smoking (that's 50/50 city and F3 freeway)
That's about it
she's good for another cpl of hundred thou!Rob.
