Greetings, when roof switch was activated hyd fluid came from latch area by dome light the top did not move. top is still latched and car is drivable. Thanks for any info on this matter.
Thanks, Greg

 

Greg,
It is what we all have experienced. I have a lot of information on my page but will give you a link to the one to explain the problem Hyd Hose Evaluation Let me know if you need additional information.
Also i will move this post over to the XK8 section.

 

Thanks Gus, does anyone know the dealer approx cost for hyd. line at latch repair?

 

You need to replace both Hydraulic lines front to rear. Not cheap!! Also look into the two types of pressure reduction systems discussed on this site. (Hydraulic or electric)

 

I've seen people mention here that it can cost anywhere from $1300-$2600, depending on the dealer/shop.

Also, make sure to clean up everything that the oil touched... it will eat through plastic, the seals, the finish on your wood panels, etc...

I would suggest getting the upgraded aftermarket repair kit from Coliflower that Gus has linked on his site. It's cheaper than the replacement from Jaguar and it's much better.

 

You do not need a Jaguar dealership to change your hoses! It takes a few tools and a lot of time. If you have a good mechanic see what he will charge.

 

Like Gus said. I just did this on mine and by going to his site and reviewing the pic's he has posted you get a pretty good idea as what you need to do.Mine took 4 1/2 hrs start to finish and would do it again. Just do it on a rainy day. Also I would install the pressure reducing valve at the same time since it will be all apart anyway.

 

I just had the dealer replace both rams and all three hose kits on mine. It cost $2,400. I'm certain an independent shop would have been much cheaper.

 

Has it pretty much been decided that either the valve or the resistor to lower pressure in the lines both work as well or is there still argument. Also for those that have done it that have not had a leak yet I was wondering if they ever developed a leak the on the the two fixes?

 

Oh no you didn't!!??
Don't open that debate again!

IMHO, I think both get the job done. Cost is the main issue. I used the Resistor method as it was quick and easy. I have not had a leak(knock on Jaguar wood) since I have had the car and did it hoping I would not get a leak. So far so good.

 

Hello, From this info and I make no claim to be a mechanic ,It seems to be that you can not or should not just reconnect the hose to the latch piston hyd cylinder?
Also how far can the top be pushed open manually to do the repair. The owners manual does not recommend operating it manually. Is there a Jaguar or other manual on this repair?
Thanks for any help, Greg Hamby

 

The pressure on the system is 1600psi, reconnecting the same hose is possible but useless and a bigger problem is that the entire system is metric. As for operating the roof manually it is possible but impractical. I have al lot of information on my page.