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Is there a point under the bonnet (hood) of a 2002 XJ8 where I can connect a set of driving lights (fog or spot lights) to power without having to run a lead all the way to the battery in the boot (trunk)?
From the location you have listed I would assume that you have a RHD XJ8. I am unfamiliar with the exact placement in the right hand drive configured vehicles but under the bonnet is an electrical bulkhead connector. It is mounted on the right side of the vehicle in left hand drive cars and is probably in a similar location on the right hand drive cars.
The easiest way to find it is to look for a large power cable that goes down to the starter. It will be bolted to the plastic shielding next to the windscreen. That is a cable that is directly connected to a cable in the boot that comes from the battery. Make sure the battery is disconnected before attempting anything with that cable. It is protected by a high voltage fuse mounted next to the spare tire. It carries the full voltage and amperage of the battery.
Jaguar is infamous for using only one wiring harness and leaving blank spots in the fuse box. Take a look at the ones under the bonnet and look for an empty space that has a terminal on one side and not the other. With a Multi-Meter you can find out if the 12 volts is switched or unswitched. Whatever location you find power you should most likely as a minimum choose to install a fuse and a relay to power lighting.
Please follow this link New Member Area - Intro a MUST - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum to the New Member Area - Intro a MUST forum and post some information about yourself and your vehicle for all members to see. In return you'll get a proper welcome and some useful advice about posting to the forum.
Many thanks Vern, I'll follow that through. I appreciate the assistance.
Just in case anyone was worried about me defacing my XJ8 with huge aftermarket spot lamps, please don't be concerned. I have mounted two small LED spots discretely behind the grille so that they are almost invisible during the day. Because we live in a rural area south west of Sydney, Australia and I do a lot of country driving, the extra light is useful in avoiding kangaroos and other wildlife after dark.
I also have a Series 2 (1969) E Type 2+2, a 1986 V12 Sovereign and my wife drives a current model XF-S. No extra lighting required on them!
Power other than battery
