Hi all,
I have a 97 xk8 and the roof has been 'stiff' for a while the locking clasp doesnt always close properly - i though this was due to lack of use from the last owner, however i have lifted and lowered it throughout the summer and on the weekend when i was closing, it stopped half way through the cycle and now wont work.
There has been no fluid leaks and all the fuses are still intact, there is sill fluid in the reservior.
Any sugggestions as to the cause of this?
Thanks

 

I had something similar happen to me and I just fixed it with the advise of this forum. As it turns out, "still some fluid in the reservoir" is not enough. It needs to be up to the proper level. Look at it and if it is low top it off. That was my problem.

The fluid to get is Pentosin CHF 11S. I found it at Carquest for under $19. Now since you have a '97 they originally came with something different in the system and two cannot be mixed. I think the new fluid is greenish, the old one was yellowish, but the smart folks on this forum will tell you how to tell the difference. Make sure you check before you top off. You may have to flush the whole system and replace the fluid if you still have the old one. I was lucky and this had already been done to my '98 so I just topped-off.

 

Thanks for the reply, it seems as if the motor has stopped working, does anyone know if there is a common fault with the motor, or if the motor would need replacing, how to check this, as im reluctant to buy a new motor if it doesnt need it. i have checked the fuse box in the bonnet, is there another fuse anywhere? still new to the car so havent really found my way round all the parts yet.

Thanks for your help in advance.
oppo57

 

Hey Oppo--see if the 40 amp fuse in the trunk blows when you try and operate the top. If so, you likely have a shorted motor. I just went through this with my 2005 and I found out that this is not as rare an occurrence as one might think. The replacement motors are VERY pricey (list from Jaguar is about $2,000).

Doug