Waiting for the power steering pressure hose ordered to arrive, today noticed some coolant in the floor under the XK8. About a month ago changed the coolant reservoir due to a leak in the union of both halves of it. The leaking comes from above the transmission, in the center of the car. I suspect is the octopus hose. In a 97 XK8, how difficult is this job for a DIY, and how much I can expect for labor charges if done by an independent mechanic.

 

When I first purchased my car, it only had 29K miles but was 14 years old. Most of the rubber was brittle. One of the objectives was being able to go anywhere, any time, including 700-1000 mile trips. The replacement process for the octopus is complex, involves removing a lot of parts and maybe a few tricks. Did not want to do that myself, so took it to a knowledgeable indy. The overall charges for replacing all rubber hoses, the expansion tank, and replacing all fluids was around $2,500. Pricey, but I have the satisfaction of something that probably won't blow if I am in the desert on a 100+ degree day.

 

Removal of intake and throttle body, along with reservoir and intake tube. Also a good time to replace the hoses under the intake manifold. If you take it slow it isn't too terrible.

 

It's not difficult on an XK8 but does take a lot of time. Consequently very appealing as a DIY job because it saves a big labour bill.

If you are planning on keeping the vehicle, then it's worth replacing the other cooling system hoses at the same time if they are original. Rubber components deteriorate with time.

Graham

 

I think I did mine without taking throttle body off. Somewhat difficult DIY.

 

Well, It happens that the coolant leak is coming from one of the hoses under the intake manifold. Need to identify parts #s along with any other parts needed (bypasses, gaskets...???).

 

Got it.!!!