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-   XJS ( X27 ) (https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/xjs-x27-32/)
-   -   XJS headlight conversion (https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/xjs-x27-32/xjs-headlight-conversion-6369/)

Keith May 29, 2008 10:00 PM

XJS headlight conversion
 
I love my 95 XJS 2+2 convertable, 6.0 V-12. Just can't stand the Euro style headlights. Love the pre-facelift quad headlights. Solution: Just replaced my Euro style headlights with lights from an 88 XJS. Now have the best of two worlds, in my opinion. The reason I'm posting this, is, just in case any other post-facelift owners want to do the same thing, to let them know it is do-able. Most people I've spoken with are under the impression that the two cars were changed so much, that the lights were not interchangeable. The conversion is a direct fit, all the wiring is color coded the same, just the plugs are different, so I used spade connectors to connect the wires. If anyone is interested, I'll be happy to show pictures of the before and after conversion. Also help with any details if needed. Regards. Keith.

ken@britishparts.com May 30, 2008 10:21 AM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
That's a fairly common swap. And, I agree. The quad lights just look right!

Keith May 30, 2008 10:53 PM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
They sure do, I love the old look. Thats the way XJS's came originally, and the way they should have remained. A couple people seemed to be aware of the swap, but many just assumed that since the front was changed during the facelift, that the headlights were also. At one point I had given up on the idea, thinking it couldn't be done without major body work. Then, a friend in the Neatherlands did it and sent me pictures. Wasn't long before I had the parts I needed, and completed the swap. Now, to swap my XJ-6 lights from the 5 inch to the 7 inch, then everything will be as it should be. Keith.

JagtechOhio May 31, 2008 01:26 AM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
I thinkI know where your friend got his...

By the way, there is a guy named Ryburn in Mena who might have odds and ends for your car, if you're looking for a local supplier.

Keith May 31, 2008 07:43 AM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
If his name is Arnoud, and shipped two XJS's from this country, then yes you do. BTW, please send info on Ryburn in Mena. Its always good to have a good parts source. Thanks. Keith.

Keith May 31, 2008 07:50 AM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
Just read an old email from Arnoud, I'd forgotten that his 2nd XJS was coming from Ohio, so, I'd put money on it that you know him! https://www.jaguarforums.com/micons/m16.gif

Brake buster Jun 1, 2008 04:03 AM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
Ahh....quad headlights

did you chaps know that is was only standard fit on US cars , not one car produced for Europe had quads fitted, this was because US law didnt allow that type of headlamp when the car was being designed , so the ' euro ' headlight is actually the tru original for the XJS and had to be modified to sell to the US:)

but i will admit, they do look good with them fitted, but i wont be getting them for my car

BB

Keith Jun 1, 2008 08:22 AM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
Brake Buster: Yep, knew that, and,the Euromay be original in Europe,the quads areoriginal here in the US. The XJS does look good with the Euro lights, but, in my opinion, which means its only important to me, is that it looks much better than the euro lights. I certainly respect everybodies opinions, and enjoy looking at everyones photos. I don't agree with the US laws regarding headlights which effected the designs, (example: 5 inch lights for XJ-6 instead of the original 7 inch), I'm going to the 7 inch as soon as I get all the appropriate parts. I know there are different versions of the lights, but, my new "88" headlights, which have halogens, light up the road 100% better than the Euro types I just replaced. I have received emails, and at least one set of photos from Europe where the conversion is being done also. Regardless how their fitted, the XJS is still one of the coolest cars on the road.

Keywasted Jun 3, 2008 12:46 PM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
I'd like to see the before/after pics of the conversion. I can always use more light up front. Also need specifics on anybody that could supply the donor lights.
Ijust got a '95 2+2 and we love it. Better ride than the other road machines we have had. And a bloody sight quieter than our Boxster.
Does anyone have any ideas on the rear window hitting the back of the seat when the top goes down?

Keith Jun 4, 2008 07:31 AM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
Try this link.

http://www.jag-lovers.org/snaps/snap...?id=1211723314

Keith Jun 4, 2008 07:37 AM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
Occastionally you can find the headlights on ebay. I started answering all the ads I could find where anyone was parting out a pre-facelift XJS. Any of the earlier ones will work. I know Welsh Enterprises has a good selection of used parts and donor cars, so might be a good place to start. Also, check the way your top folds up as it goes down, not sure, mine doesn't have that problem, but may be simple. I've seen posts regarding this on the forums on Jag-lovers, not trying to sway anyone over there, just passing on info.

joesono Jul 2, 2008 02:19 PM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
K,

would LOVE to see pix of that. i am in process of doing same with my 96 xjs.

thanks man!

Joe

Keith Jul 6, 2008 10:47 PM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
Try the last post on page one of this thread for a link to my photos. They'll make your 96 look soooooo much better, and you'll enjoy the better lighting.

joesono Jul 15, 2008 01:31 PM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
VERY COOL!

thanks Keith! i am about to do the same on my 96xjs. just purchased mint 85 complete set. any pointers?

thanks!

J

Keith Jul 15, 2008 04:12 PM

RE: XJS headlight conversion
 
For some reason, these replys don't work if you try to give a lengthy response. Contact me at: keith.loretta@sbcglobal.net, and I'll give you any help you need. Its really very easy. Keith.

Paul Jagger Jun 22, 2012 10:44 PM

xjs headlight conversion
 
Hi Keith, Paul here, new member to forum, your xjs looks awesome with the quads,can i trouble you to send any info and pics..so looking forward to the conversion. Thanks
Cheers, Paul

RagJag Jun 23, 2012 12:35 PM

I also wondered if anyone had a top hitting the seat when lowring. I have to push it back a little as it is going down to get it to not hang. Just the left side hits. Adjustment??
Bobby

ATL Dave Jun 23, 2012 05:31 PM

Were the Euro lights on your '95 the plastic lens type with the leaper in the center, or did your car have the glass lenses?

Dave
Atlanta 1994 6.0L XJS

Greg in France Jun 24, 2012 12:47 AM

The one piece 'euro' lights with refelctors for LHD are rare as hens teeth over this side. Nobody, not even Jaguar and the other specialists, can supply them. When my car was registered in France, I had to buy quad headlights to get the correct dipping to the left hand side.

If anyone has one piece 'euro' lights for LHD they do not want, I am sure a buyer would be found very quickly over this side.

Greg

ATL Dave Jun 24, 2012 09:02 AM

Greg, if you fo buy some, make sure they are the Carrello's with the glass lens, the late US market plastic lens headlamps are terrible. While the high beam is adequate, the low beam is all but useless.

I think the German market got good lights...

Dave


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