My 2003 XKR intake side transmission coolant line let go. I have bought a new one from Jaguar. My mechanic tells me that subframe needs to be dropped to access it. Part #2 in picture.

 

Not exactly cheap, are they?

I think you might be able to get that lower line out, as it doesn't appear to be trapped behind the cat. See the second pic. in this post from RaceDiagnostics:
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...8/#post1730318

...unless the steering rack makes that not possible on a LHD car?

 

This might sound craZy,,, but if you go IN with the intention of dropping the subframe (and have a good jack and extra set of hands to help ya for the raising especially) dropping the subframe (and putting it back) ain't that hard... While there, you could swap out the often neglected rear subframe mounts. Motor mount too. Shoot, maybe even the front subframe mounts.

Release all four ball joints (remove the whole knuckle assembly), release steering arms, sway links, and tie the caliper to the springs - four bolts for the rack, four bolts for the subframe frame itself, plus braces and stuff, and it comes right down.

What would have to be moved or removed from the top - a lot more delicate, the line a bit more finicky to thread in etc,,, dropping the subframe might not be the worst way to go.

Would you do it yourself?

 

I may do the easiest method, which I saw on a YouTube video. I will cut off the crimped fittings which attach the rubber hose, and put in a equal length of transmission cooler hose with hose clamps. No way, I'm paying mechanic to drop the subframe.

 

YUP! That's exactly what I did, many many miles ago. All good all good, at this point.

 

In the end, we loosened and lowered subframe a bit, giving access to remove the entire line. The new one went in rather easily and the transmission required 2.5 quarts of Dex IV fluids. The part was 160.00 from Engel Imports, cheaper than dealer.

 

On an '03 XKR, you have a ZF 6HP26 transmission. The proper, factory approved/tested fluid is Lifeguard6. Ford built the same transmission under license from ZF and specified Mercon SP, which many of us have used before for cost reasons. You might want to double check on the refill procedure and approved fluids.

Best of luck, keep us posted.

 

RightO... Good catch!

 

Here is a link to a Thread from 2016 when I replaced a leaking
transmission line with a braided steel hose an AN fittings. It is
more durable than the original line an I never had any problems with leaks.

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...n+cooler+lines