Subject: 1996 XJS. I recall that the top should not remain in the down position for an extended period of time. Which makes sense. What are your opinions of too long of time ? Two weeks ? Two months ?
Thanks.

Rick

 

Rick,

I regularly leave mine down for a month or so at a time.

I think what is more important is:

- Never folding it when it is wet or dirty as this will encourage moisture or dirt wear in the fabric
- /never driving with the hood down without the hood cover fitted. Road grit and dust gets blown into the folds of the hood and the headlining which then aggravates wear.
- Regularly putting up the hood periodically to keep the fabric stretched and supple
- Regularly treating the hood with cleaner and reproofer

Just my 2p worth.

Cheers

Paul

 

Hi Paul

Thanks for your response. Time down-wise, I was thinking the same. But good to hear a confirmation. And thanks for the pointers. Two of them I had thought of, but two I had not. Good tips. Thanks again.

Rick

 

Been driving my 96 for 13 year without the hood cover.

No problems related to wear….and the top comes down any chance I get.

Good advice in general, if you can stick to it!

 

Regularly putting up the hood periodically to keep the pump and cylinders in good condition so that rubbers and seals do not dry out.

 

Well, thanks again guys for your comments. I thought the question was worth asking. Like Vee mentions, I like to drive mine with the top down at every opportunity. And I don't even drive mine whenever it's wet outdoors. Here in the Midwest part of the USA we have about 7 months out of the year that will allow driving with the top down. But my instincts tell me not to leave the top down continuously for that length of time.

Rick

 

The sun also does its work on the interior. Could also be a reason not to always leave the top down.

 

I started putting the top up when a stray cat moved into my barn and took up residence. It liked to sleep in the car. Then it started to sleep on the top… must feel like hammock. Feed the thing and it gained some weight… enough to rip the top. Do what you want with the Jag, but sell the cat.

 

That's what happens when you feed stray cats; THEY OWN YOU!
I don't have a cat. Therefore any cat on this place is Feral.
In consideration any of the Tender Snowflakes-Facebook generation who might be reading, I'll refrain saying what I'd like to do with all these Feral Cats that pee on all the doors, dig in all the flower beds, and sleep on all the cars!
(';')

 

LOL!!! Cats. You guys crack me up !!! LOL !!! When mine Jag is not being driven, it sits in my garage on a battery tender under a custom, indoor only dust cover.
Yes, stray cats will stay wherever they are dry, fed, and comfortable.