Hi Guys. Just got a green shower from the centre interior lights when I tried to lower the roof.

I have found out that it is the hydraulick fluid from the roof so probably a hose has let go.

Anyone have any idea of which hose it will be as I will have to fix it within 1 day due to no garage to leave the car in overnight and I don't fancy leaving the roof open around here ?

Would it be better just to replace all the hoses as it is likely they are all the same age ans so if one has failed then the others may well be a bit below par now ?

One more question - does anyone know how much fluid the system needs for complete fluid replacement - can't find the info anywhere in the manuals and at £15 per litre don't want to get to much - already looking like a £700 repair job.

Thanks

 

I believe the hoses come together in a kit and one quart of fluid is all that is needed.

 

I'm in the UK. So far all I have been able to find for the hoses is one supplier at a mouth watering £600 for all three. Any info on a cheaper supplier would be most appreciated.

 

The dealer I get parts from charges less that $300 USD for part number HJB8256AB (hood latch hose set) Wholesale Price.
You can buy PENTOSIN CHF11S fluid in one liter containers for around $20 USD here in North America.

Do search for the Jaguar part number HJB8256AB.

bob gauff

 

The other hoses do not fail nearly as often as the top latch hoses...just replace the top ones.

 

Consider getting the aftermarket hose kit from Colliflower. It's so heavy duty, it will never fail. It's also about the same price as the OEM hoses from Jaguar and the installation is identical, except you need to replace the fittings, which the kit comes with.

 

here is the link for the Colliflower. It is a big job to replace. I hd my Jag shop do it for me, what a bummer.

JagRepair.com - Jaguar Repair Information Resource

 

See www.jagrepair .com for lots of information about the hoses etc.

 

Scott,

Which Atlanta shop did the work? I am in Atlanta and want to keep this in mind if/when I need new hoses.

Do you recommend the shop for all repair/maintenance? I am currently under Jag warrantee and let them do anything the car needs. But when this runs out...

Thank you,

Jack

 

I just replaced mine and it took me around 7 hours to complete. Keep in mind that I took my time and had to re-read lots on account of not wanting to damage any fascias. Could do it now in around 3-4 hours

 

I recommend Collifolwer hoses - very high quality at the same price as OEM or less. Also, consider rebuilding the top latch while you have it out. $150 at Top Hydraulics.

 

Oh wow, there's a place that rebuilds them? That's new news to me.

 

Yes. Top Hydraulics | Rebuilt Convertible Top Hydraulic Cylinders - Top Hydraulics, Inc

Klaus is a great guy, and has experience in rebuilding top latch systems for a variety of cars. He just started rebuilding XK8 latches.

It took about 4 or 5 days - including shipping - to have mine rebuilt. He might have some in-stock units by now. $150

My latch started leaking shortly after I replaced the hoses and I had to remove and reclean everything twice. When you start the hose project, remove the latch first, send it out and you'll and get it back just about the time you are back to that point...

 

That's good to know. If I had known, I would have sent mine out just for self assurance.