roof top down if only ...

[v12bitch]

hi all, my 98 xk8 convertible has a problem releasing and relatching the hood, needs some push and pull, and still struggles, could it be lack of use. my history shows a oil change some years back and a bolt issue with the latch pre owner. is it easy to drain and re fill or maybe a top up help please the sun was out today lol thanks in advance

[v12bitch]

oh dear latch wont even release now all pump and windows doing their thing will have to try the man release, did give it a quick try with the allen key but I couldn't budge it, yes I had the pump valve open. not sure which way releases it tho clock or anti many thanks

[plasticpig]

When was the fluid changed? Jag used two different hydraulic fluids. Up to 1999 they used one which had a tendency to gel up. Jaguar recommended changing the fluid to to higher quality one. Unless this was done properly which involves a complete flush of the system to remove all the old fluid and flushing the reservoir then you sill have little lumps of gelled up fluid being pushed round the system.

A complete flush of the system and new fluid may fix this but quite often you will find the seals and lines have been damaged and your new non gummy fluid now leaks out all over the place. If this is the case then you are in for a big bill as replacing the seals and line requires the removal of the front passenger and rear passenger seats plus lots of trim removal.

This happened to my XKR I was lucky that the specialist I use took pity on me and discounted the bill so it only cost me £600. I have talked to other owners who have paid significantly more than that for the same job.

Edited by plasticpig on Monday 13th January 11:08

[andyps]

Obvious question but does it have enough fluid in it? Mine didn't work once and I found the fluid was low, it has aleak which was caused by something I did, needs toping up after every 2 or 3 cycles of the roof otherwise it drops below the minimum line.

[v12bitch]

andyps said:

Obvious question but does it have enough fluid in it? Mine didn't work once and I found the fluid was low, it has aleak which was caused by something I did, needs toping up after every 2 or 3 cycles of the roof otherwise it drops below the minimum line.

the reservoir is about 75% full in the pump section think its a jammed up latch due to non operation and I have tried to free it with the allen key with the tap open but cant budge it don't want to go full on heavy handed at this stage tho. think a visit to my indi is looming lol thanks again all