I recently had a leaking hydraulic cylinder in my 2002 XK8 convertible. The top actuated,deploying and stowing just fine but I noticed small amounts of hydraulic fluid leaking through the metal mess on my overhead light/garage door opener consol. After researching the convertible system I trouble shot my problem to the latching mechanism cylinder buried in the front windshield frame. The online,let alone the dealership prices were around $650 to $900 to replace said unit...let alone the labor costs. So I was looking at a $1200+ fix !!
Further reaserch online led me to Top Hydraulics Inc out of Florence Oregon. They offer a complete rebuild of your core cylinder for $150. I was skeptical but figured I'd give it a try.
I'm writing this to pass on an amazing recourse for my convertible brothers and sisters. After removing the cylinder , sorry I didn't take pictures etc,I shipped it off to Top Hydraulics and paid my $150 via PayPal. A week later my rebuilt core came back and has been working like new ever since. Top Hydraulics followed up with a call to make sure I was happy and satisfied with my transaction and I told them I would be posting my experience on this forum.
If your in the market for convertible hydraulic cylinders,hoses or pumps...I would recommend checking them out at tophydraulicsinc.com. I was not offered any kick back or insentive to do this. I just want to pass on a great resource and promote a home grown American business. Hope this is of value to us frugal shoppers for our finicky felines.

 

FYI - it is tophydraulicsinc.com and not tophydraulics.com.

 

that is good information to have - thanks for sharing