This may be well known to all you Jaguar enthusiasts but as Im new to the brand I need to ask. I recently bought a 2009 XJ 8 sovereign and no cat on the bonnet. Seen a similar car, maybe a year or two older that still had this fixture. I always liked it and wondered why they had them removed? Safety regulations?

Cheers,Paul

 

Bonnet Leapers were standard in some markets, optional in others, and a dealer-installed accessory in others. They look better on some models than others--definitely not appropriate on sport models--but quite good on X350s in my view. You can certainly add one!

 

Nice picture. I want one! Thanks for the feedback, cheers, Paul

 

Starting with the 08 X358 XJ, Jaguar discontinued all bonnet leapers on all models that still had one, you can still by one from jag and install it yourself.

 

I suppose that means drilling at least one big hole in the bonnet. I saw in the owner manual that you "mustn't" drill holes, presumably because of the risk of interfering with the corrosion protection on the aluminium panels. Do we know how to deal with it and prevent electrolitic corrosion from the dissimilar metals?

 

Thanks for the feedback. I'm dropping the car off with the dealer on Saturday and I'll leave the dilemma of drilling holes with them. I'll let you know what they come back with. Regards, Paul

 

good choice Paul, I also love them on the 4 doors. its a tradition

 

Well done,
The big Cats need the Leaper in my view!
It's the EURO STAZI that messed it all up ! So called pedestrian safety!
I don't want to run into someone elses car, why oh why would they want to run in front of mine?
Long Live the Leaper !
Regards, Stu

 

Right on, Stuart !!

 

Just been informed by Jaguar Dubai it'll be around Usd 500 to fit a leaper. Quite steep considering the part appears on ebay and similar for around usd 50/ 100. the questions are 1. How to overcome potential corrosion protection issues on the aluminium panels. As John mentions in a previous post, Do we know how to deal with it and prevent electrolitic corrosion from the dissimilar metals? 2. How do you fit one? has anyone experience on this or know where I could research further? Cheers, Paul

 

Many may disagree about this as it is a grey area.
I know and believe that on the X Type it should sit nose in line with the end of the bonnet, however with the big cats, I am not really sure!
Go with your heart and what you feel is right.
Good Luck and show the Cat with Pride!
Regards, Stu
And ooh yes, when I get the time I will install my Leaper, my Good Lady bought me one for Xmas and yes!!! It's sprung loaded for safety.
Happy Driving to you Mr Scotia and all others like minded, keep the Faith!

 

I Would ask the dealer how much of this is actual parts and how much for the labor. it might be cheaper to supply them with the leaper and have them put it on.

if not ask around for quality independents and body shops, with the amount of highline and exotic cars there are sure to be plenty who will properly install one for a reasonable rate.