There are many older posts on this. Solutions include replace the lines, open/close w/ just the battery (really 30-40% lower pressure?), reduce the voltage w/ a resistor, change the springs that regulate pressure, use Gus's modified unit (thanks for developing that, great solution) and manual latch lock/unlock.

I almost never open/close the top altho sounds like I should do it occasionally. Top won't get creases, ram cylinders seals won't dry out, hydraulic fluids won't turn to mud. If I go manual lock/unlock, maybe monthly? Top operation is smooth and quick so I don't think it's been used much (previous owner lives in SoCal)

My 03 has 77k. Is manual lock/unlock a good solution? Hard to open w/ just an allen wrench? Lock/unlock when the top is just starting to open or close? Need to cap off the hydraulic lines or can I reduce/stop the pressure by turning a valve? Any way to "test drive" the lock/unlock? Is the "battery only" approach worth considering?

Thanks in advance for the feedback. This is a great site. We're lucky to have talented people w/ years of experience of XK8 ownership. LOL I think these cars are addictive. I couldn't get by w/ just one

 

Dennis07 is the manual latch guru, you will find all his info here https://drive.google.com/file/d/12Od...nNMCXJVvw/view and here if you want a long read https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...eration-89085/
I believe you will need to cap off the latch hoses to remove the pressure from them and avoid the green shower scenario.

 

Awesome. Thanks!