Hello! Inspired by several forum members here, I'm now beginning the conversion of my 2004 XJR to an X358 plus some other modifications on the way.

In December, I picked up a Japanese import back to the UK which, despite needing a few things, was in pretty good condition mechanically and excellent condition underneath.

I'll post some pictures of it over the next few weeks and provide links to previous posts of the early pioneers who undertook this first around 15 years ago in case it helps anyone else thinking of doing the same.

Here's the car pre-work being done with a fresh set of Jaguar Kalimnos wheels.

 

Here's the first step: side moulding removal:

• Using thin fishing line, start at the edge of the moulding and move along it in a sawing motion
• You'll likely have a lot of old, black glue left over so don't worry if it doesn't all come off
• I used auto glym tar remover to soften it up and used a plastic scraping tool to begin removing it. This took a LONG time
• The left over marks came off pretty easily with a clay bar.

There was a long scratch in the clear coat where the top moulding met the body which wasn't caused by this but do be aware you may have something similar lurking underneath! It's not massively noticeable but too deep to polish out to a perfect finish.

Smooth panels at last!



Halfway through removal - very stubborn glue residue remaining on the car


Glue residue and mark in the clear coat


Starting to clear up with a clay bar


After a clay bar and light polish

 

What a beautiful XJR! I would have never thought removing the side molding would make such a great improvement on what is already a great looking car, but there is is. Looks great!

 

Welcome aboard.

 

Welcome to the Forums.

 

Welcome to Jaguar Forums LeefeXJR,

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welcome to the forum - enjoy!!