I know they have to be of high quality but the cost seems so high. Are they really that expensive to make or is it just that they are a specialty product.

 

Which hydraulic lines? Convertible roof ones or others? Do NOT buy Jaguar ones.

 

frankc, I did some research when I was in the process of doing the convertible lines. I ended up getting the Top Hydraulic ones.
We have a great company that does all kind of tractor and big moving equipment and was glad to help out but could not get the ends needed and would not stand behind the reusing of the ones I was going to take off.
So it's not the lines but the fittings, couldn't come close to the right bottom one while researching.
Saw a do it yourselfer use the brake stainless steel braided lines, no idea how he did it as it was in a used car lot when I looked at it, no camera at the time. And there was a UFO right over the building, , Just my luck.

 

I was talking about the top lines, it just seems strange that a part that seems so simple costs so much. Similar high pressure lines are used in so many applications it just seems odd that the part is so expensive. Neither here not there for me, since I already ordered some replacements from Top Hydraulics, just seems odd.

 

I am sure its the same in the states. There are companies out there that make up hydraulic hoses on the spot every day. I am sure there must be one near you.

Just googled it. There are some around you. The first one I looked at is in Forrest Park. The one here sounds good by the reviews Anchor Products at 1075 Chattahoochee Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA

 

I just got a response from a company in the UK which even with shipping is half as much at top hydraulic. To late for me but for those reading this thread check out www.cabriolet-roof-hoses.com

 

Thanks for posting this potential source for the convertible top hydraulic hoses. Not sure what the shipping costs are, but it appears that they sell a full set of six hoses for my wife's 2006 XK8 for less than $400. That is certainly worth checking out if and when the time comes that I must face the green shower on her car....

 

It's a division of HEL Performance so a well known trustworthy company.

 

Top Hydraulics also rebuilds the actuator. I had a leaking one I replaced so I sent it to them for rebuild. I like to keep one in stock so when I pull the header rail loose and see the actuator leaking, I don't have to stop and order more parts.

bob

 

The only reason US suppliers charge so much is because they had no competition and we had no choice. Now that this new choice is brought forward they might reconsider their strategy, perhaps even offering a more competitive price to just forum members.

I for sure will be going offshore for replacement hoses until they do.

 

Scott, wow, great price! Thanks.

John

 

Whatever the cost difference was the Top hydraulic hoses were easy to install, clearly marked, and high quality polyamide hoses. I am not doing it again on this car. I am sure there are other good choices, I am just saying this choice is a good one.

 

Just got the message that there was a reply to this topic. Thought whilst I was on I would put up a link to my "What I did", similar to a "how to" but its up to you if you follow it.

Here you go, and please let me know if you find it useful. Thanks! Click this line to see how to replace hoses.

 

Frank,

Your "how to" is excellent! It is quite detailed, every step photographed and explained, has suggestions and even safety warnings (hot trim plate). If it is ok, I'd like to print it and keep for future need. Many thanks!

 

Thanks for the compliment. Very nice of you to take the time. Appreciated.

Feel free to do a print off. Though at sometime in the not too distant future I intend to visit the US of A So if I end up in Florida you can buy me a drink

 

Hi Frank,

You are most welcome. Thank you for the permission to make a print of. Yes, if you end up here in Florida during your visit, I'll buy you a drink. Suggest visiting in early December when the weather is more hospitable. Currently it is 90 degrees F and about 60% humidity.