I have a 2001 XK8, 44K miles, and I would like some help on how to remove the rear hydraulic rams for refurbishment. I noticed the upper cylinder body is attached to the convertible top frame and is free to swivel. However, the location is tight and I can't see how to disconnect the ram body from the swivel location. Anyone have some advice?

 

This link should help you with the R&R of the ram.

Link JagRepair.com - Jaguar Repair Information Resource

 

Hi Little Dewey, I have a 1999 XK8 and I just removed my rams the other day. Did so while replacing the rear speakers. I will try to give you the short version. First remove the rear seat. Bottom section, screw in the floor right under the seat cushion. Nut and bolt may be covered with black plastic. Once the bottom is out, backrest will have two screws you will see at the bottom, remove. Remove the seat belt shoulder bracket top seat belt screws. Push backrest upward to remove. Next remove side rear quarter interior panels. Remove seat belt shoulder harness bolt on interior , 2 screws for the int quarter cover. One face forward, other upward. Next, Remove the black brace from inside quarter panel to rear of seat brace, just atop speaker housing. Remove the rear speaker housing. 2 nuts on the bottom, 2 bolts far right and far left. Once speaker housing is unbolted, wires unplugged, you should get a better view of the bottom of the ram. At the base of the top frame, near the quarter window you will see a triangle looking plate with three screws. this plate holds the bottom of the ram in place. Remove the plate, then remove the piston top clip, undo the hose lines and the ram is free. I know its the short version. hope it is helpful. Rich

 

Thanks Gus, jag repair is a great site. Printed a few procedures. After my ram removal by touch and feel method, next step of removal of the header latch left me with the want of a little more info. Jag repair has step by step. Rich

 

Thanks Gus for the repair manual excerpts. Do you have any information on a part number or a supplier for a replacement seal kit (Two O-rings and one teflon ring) for the roof latch hydraulic cylinder? It is a very easy repair and I would like to rebuild the cylinder as I install the new hoses. Thanks for any help. You seem to be the go-to-guy for roof repairs.

 

Any. Info come up on availability of seal kits for the xk8 hydraulic rams that work the convertible top? I

 

Ktmscott - have not seen any seal kits but Cabriolet Hydraulics and Top Hydraulics offer refurbishment services for nominal cost

 

I recently used Top Hydraulics out of Oregon to refurbish my cylinders. Great work and quick turn around