I really want hood vents on my XK8 and I've given up finding an XKR bonnet. Adamesh sellers these and they don't require a rolled edge, just holes cut in bonnet. I think they're actually paragon vents.
Has anyone installed these and what precautions are necessary to protect the engine from any water from rain, or washing? I know there are electricals and such in that area.

Or is it possible to simply get a real set of XKR vents and fit those ? I prefer them. The edges would not sit flush but would that be an issue?

 

Installed

 

Holes cut.
Not my bonnet. From the website!!

 

Make sure your coil covers are not cracked, have seals in good condition and are properly torqued.

 

There is no changing your mind once you've put those on...

 

I know. I may opt for a set of factory vents and just let edge sit on top. These do too.
I'm also keeping an eye out for a new hood/bonnet. There's one on ebay but my body shop guy says it'd be a bear to fix. It's really damaged. But it's cheap.

 

Lights up and only $42!

Plasmaglow LED Hood Scoop Kit - JCWhitney

 

Wow!! I'm ordering right now!!

 

I think the XKR factory ones look better. You might as well just order the factory ones and have the holes cut. You'd just have to get the part number and the precise location to cut the holes.

 

Without the indent the factory vents are going to look like crap. They are basically snap on plastic parts and you aren't supposed to see the edges. If you want the factory vents get the factory hood. The vents you are looking at work better if you are just going to cut holes.

Here is a cheap XKR hood, it needs some work but you are going to have it painted anyway:

01 02 03 04 05 Jaguar XKR x K R Hood Genuine Factory Original | eBay

Here is a picture of the edge of the factory vent, it is cut to nest in the indent in the XKR hood.

 

I didn't know that.

Basically, phil, don't give up on getting the XKR bonnet.

 

Is it just me or is one hole cut higher than the other?

 

Just you I think, as they look even to me. But those are some honking big holes. I've seen these vents though and done right they are very distinctive and likely suck a ton more heat out. I know my vents blow like a hooker expecting a thousand dollar tip.

OK, I need to get off the computer when I'm drinking...

 

I know this, that's why I'm looking for an alternative. I've been watching that bonnet for a couple months and made an offer but he's not budging on the price. It's really damaged and would take a LOT of work to be useable. Looks like hail damage and a possible impact to the front.
And the factory vents can be fitted with some work, but there will be a ridge standing proud of the bonnet. Unless someone can roll the edges there's no way to make them totally factory. I've processed this for months!!

 

Lmfao!!! My best posts are after a couple, or actually many!! Lol