Hey ya'll. I have a 97 xk8. the top usually goes up and down no problem, I was putting the top up tonight and it stopped right before closing completely and now I get a "latch error" on the dash and it wont move either way! How do i fix? Google is of no help.

 

Welcome to the forum Eric,

I've moved your question from General Tech Help to XK8/XKR forum. This is the place to post technical questions about your model.

Graham

 

1) Go in the trunk and remove the right hand side trim panel that covers the roof pump. 2) Take the allan wrench that is clipped onto the front of the pump (hopefully it's there)
3) Hop back in the car and remove the 1/2" (.50) decorative cover button from the dome light console.
4) Insert the short end of the allan wrench into the hole with the long end pointing almost straight down. This will take some effort to get the allan wrench into the hex socket...odd angle.
5) With your engine running, your left hand set to push the top up toggle and your left hand gripping the allan wrench, push the button and at the same time turn the allan wrench counter clockwise. This manually operates the latch and will pull your top closed.


At your next earliest convenience, put the top down, remove the windshield/latch cover and lubricate everything you see (not sloppily, just use enough to free any sticking parts)


Visually inspect the hydraulic hoses coming into the latch. It sounds like you may have an imminent green shower coming...

 

Thanks! I actually figured that method out yesterday after I found the original owner's manual under the spare tire in the trunk (no idea it was there, thought it was lost to time.)

And this journey has led me to a lot of info about these ominous green showers. So thanks for the headsup I'll be sure to nip that problem in the bud sooner than later.

Cheers.

 

Since you have a 97, the latch hoses are not likely to fail. But check the fluid in the reservoir. It should have a green tinge and the level should be between the lines.

 

+1 on the 97's hoses they are less prone to failure than the newer models.
You should also check the bypass valve on the pump and make sure it is tight. They rattle loose and will cause low pressure to the latch. The hand book should show where it is locatd at the base of the pump.