I just joined this forum. I have a little oil dripping into the overhead lights above the rearview mirror, just below the latch for the convertible top. The local mechanics I know do not want to get involved. The dealer says that this type repair could cost a few thousand dollars. Does anyone know of a good mechanic that is familiar with the hydraulic system that raises and lowers the top? I live in Staten Island New York . I am hoping to find someone that`s not to far away, maybe an hour or so at the most. From what I read, this is a common problem , I hope I can find a mechanic that has worked on this system in the past. Thank You

 

Sounds like you understand the problem and don't want to do the work yourself.

you need someone to replace the hoses.

last year someone posted the name and number of a guy who will fly to you and do the job. Tough to remember but it was less than $2000 all in. I suppose after doing it several times he can complete the job relatively fast.

within 1 hour drive:

try calling Flemington foreign cars to see if they would do it. There's another guy up the road from them but imo they are overpriced and don't meet schedules.

if I read you wrong and you would consider doing the job yourself say so and we can recommend hose sources + detailed instructions. Figure on 1 weekend the first time from what I've read.

John

 

Thanks, I will try that contact, I am not too mechanically inclined, oil change, brakes, a belt is about all I have ever done.

 

The instructions for tearing the interior apart are very detailed, but it's a two day job for most people and the hoses aren't cheap.

 

Another option is to (temporarily or permanently) abandon the latch hoses in place without replacing them, and convert the car to manual latch operation. Very cheap and easy to do. There is a link in my sig. line below.

 

Hi, this is what is commonly known as the 'Green shower' a split in the hydraulic hose for the roof. Its not too hard a job. Been-there-done-that type of thing for me. My local Jag dealership quoted me silly money £5000 uk pounds, around $9000 !

The good news is I did it myself and it cost me around £150 and I used better quality pipes than the original.

Take a look, you may find it useful. https://www.jaguarforum.com/showthre...=1#post1094300

Let me know how you get on won't you?

 

The last 2 XKs I have repaired had leaking hydraulic latch CYLINDERS. The hoses were fine and had been replaced before.
I sent the cylinders to TOP HYDRAULICS for repair. (cheaper than a new one)

Diagnose before you start tearing out the interior. Latches are easier than the hoses.

bob