In this cold weather, the old lift support struts get a bit tired often causing the hood fall on you while you check the fluids. At least that's my experience.

Snowed in these last few days with lots of time to look around on the web, I managed to source the correct aftermarket units that match the pricey OEM Jaguar replacements.
Naturally the struts need to be the same length, but also the same resistance.

Locating the 17" hood struts was fairly straightforward,
Rockauto listed them as a replacement body component, but didn't have the trunk struts listed in the XJ40 section..

I managed to get the specs for the trunk struts from an old (2004) post in the Jaglovers archive.

Hood (90lb - 17 inch)
Boot (60lb - 20 inch)

Going back to Rockauto, I located the list of all available struts and matching up the length, scrolled through the options until I found the matching power/resistance.

These are the trunk struts I ordered - about CAN$14 (US$10.75) each, so not bad.

STRONGARM 4248
Extended Length of 19.5 to 20.5
End Fitting Configuration. 10mm Ball - 10mm Ball
Force: 55-65
Rod to Tube (mm): 8 x 19

The replacement hood struts were a bit more, possibly because they were "Jag" replacements, but still OK at CAN$20 (US$15.50) apiece.

So if you get ever get banged on the head from worn out supports, pick some up!

Larry

 

Thanks for documenting your research findings. I'm surprised that you didn't find a recommendation in the archived posts since this is such a common component. Great job. Yup, I've had to remind myself many times to grab an old broom handle when the weather turns cold in Detroit to prevent my head from taking a whack or worse getting fingers crushed.

 

Strongly advise getting the URO hood struts - fitted them today - major improvement, hood practically raises itself. Couldn't be happier.

Trunk struts still on the way from supplier.

Larry

 

I have my URO ones for about 7 years. The fronts will almost pull the hood up by themselves. The trunks are a little weaker after all this time but hold the trunk lid well. so much better than the broomstick option. lol