1997 XK8 - convertible top doesn't retract all the time

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Dec 7, 2013 | 11:43 AM

mike mitchell

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From: wixom mich.

1997 XK8 - convertible top doesn't retract all the time

my middle latch for convertible top doesn't retract all the time. easy fix, or precursor to a green shower? I also would like to know where I can buy a rubber top window seal. while I'm at it.. why would the retractable function of the steering column suddenly quit? do you think I could just pull into a dealer, and get these things fixed, once and for all?

Last edited by GGG; Dec 7, 2013 at 01:27 PM. Reason: add detail to thread title

Dec 7, 2013 | 01:26 PM

GGG

Joined: Dec 2011

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From: Durham, UK

Mike,

I've moved your question from General Tech Help to XK8 forum.

Members here with the same model will be able to help ......... and save you $$$.

Graham

Dec 7, 2013 | 04:41 PM

WhiteXKR

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From: Arlington VA USA

Quote:

Originally Posted by mike mitchell

Fortunately on a '97, you might be spared the green shower. They used a better hose the first year.

You should check your fluid level, but if your fluid has never been flushed (if it is yellow/brown and not dark green) it needs to be upgraded to Pentosin CHF-11S. The original fluid congeals with age and will eventually stop working. Also make sure the pump petcock is turned fully clockwise.

The seals are a dealer item. Try an online dealer like JPAM parts for a better price, but these seals are still usually around $100 +/-.

The steering column issue could be the switch or motor.

If you do not want to do the work yourself, try to find a qualified Jaguar independent shop...you will usually pay quite a bit less than at the dealer.

Dec 7, 2013 | 05:06 PM

test point

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From: Ellijay

+1 on everything WhiteXKR said but a sticky top latch can be something as simple as needing a little shot of spray lube from the outside. If that fixes it you should also check on the green fluid. The yellow stuff is a lot easier to flush before it turns into a paste rather than a liquid.

Here is a good read on the steering column issue: https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...fix-faq-53768/

Last edited by test point; Dec 7, 2013 at 05:08 PM.

Dec 8, 2013 | 06:47 AM

XKRacer

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From: UK

I had a similar thing on mine...... To the point it would not even release and once did would not go back down. I took the mechanism apart, the oil had turned to sludge and the pump was trying to push it through and couldn't, I dropped it into a bucket of brake cleaner and then blew it out with an air line..... Once put back together, replaced the old oil and now works perfectly