Try to cycle it a few times (with then engine running). It will bleed itself. That may be all you need.

If that still does not work, being a '97 you may have an older type of fluid in the system that had a gelling problem after aging a number of years. If that is the case the fluid will need a complete change. You may still have enough fluid in that liter can to do it. If you empty the resevoir with the roof open you will get most of the fluid without resorting to openning up every hydraulic line....that would probably be sufficient.

 

Bit late now but also make sure the petcock is tightly closed (clockwise).
Even a small leak here will give your symptoms

 

Thanks to WHITEXKR for the pictures and how to get the back quarter windows to go up. I used a bent paper clip to jump the system and the windows are now in the upright position for the first time since I purchased the car 5 months ago. I bought my ‘99 XK8 knowing that there were leak issues and completely replaced the entire hydraulic system, (hoses,rams,pump). I can get the top to operate but the rear windows would not go up and the “top not latched” light was still on.

I will now spend some time on getting the rest of the issues resolved and report back. I think it is just a sequence problem now. Maybe with the windows up, that may check a few more boxes on the program.

Thanks again, -Jim

 

Hi White XK
Trying to work this out but my fusebox looks a little different in my 97
This is the same as my fusebox and I know this thread is quite old but I would appreciate any help on this subject before I start t strip the car to access the failed regulator.

Attachment 164131

What am I missing here? Trying to get this fixed on my day off...

Thanks.
frenchjag

 

See page 24 on this link it will show you the relay assignment.

Link. http://www.jagrepair.com/images/Auto.../jagxk1997.pdf

Gus
JagRepair.com - Jaguar Repair Information Resource

 

Hi, Whitexkr! i m new on this forum , i bought a xk8 convertible a few months ago , and problems appear one after the other. the most recent concerns the roof. A big leak appeared on the hook. While waiting to disassemble, I switched to manual mode (by opening the pump valve and with the key), but the rear windows remained down. thanks to your explanation and the photo, I was able to bring them up. So big big thanks!

 

@WhiteXKR I've seen a couple videos on how to raise the rear windows (they are down and my car has the green shower), however im still confused on what to use for the jumper wire...and someone said they used a paperclip? Could someone explain exactly where to stick both ends and what wire or object to use...thanks!