XJS Leaping Cat

[stumashy]

Am interested in a '91 4.0 XJS which seems to be in really good condition. Have taken it for a test drive and think I've got the wife on-side, the only problem being it has a 'leaper' mounted on the bonnet behind the black 'growler' badge.
I personally don't think they suit the XJS although I know this is not everyone's view. Is there any way of removing the 'leaper' without leaving holes in the bonnet?

[lowdrag]

No is the answer. It is bolted through and at the same time is illegal since it is a danger to pedestrians. Just the same, many of us do it and prefer the car looking like a "proper Jaguar" with the leaper on. They still supply all Jaguars in the USA with the leaper on incidentally. Your only option is a couple of rubber grommets or have the area blown in by a good painter but I doubt that will work too well since after a year or two of fading the difference will show. I'd leave it on.

[stumashy]

Thanks for the help Lowdrag. I'm sure I'll grow to love it with a leaper, it looks like such a good example.

[Jaguarnut]

There is possibly an alternative - although not cheap! Some leapers that are available now are designed to break away from the mount (or possibly swivel around) in the event of being caught in an accident. It may be that these will fit with some modification to the bonnet and hide the existing holes whilst being more pedestrian friendly. Not sure of their legality though! I would like the Leaper on my cars but so far have fought shy of fitting them.