I have a 2006 XKR convertible that was shipped. I requested enclosed top load, but they put it on the bottom -now I have a stain on the convertible -a roof in perfect condition except for a new (transmission fluid?) stain.

Shipper will pay to clean or replace, per our discussion. I had the roof checked and it cannot be cleaned without damage to the blue color. The roof is to be replaced.

My issue -no 2006 Jaguar XK8 / XKR convertible roof fabric available in the USA or UK. According to the Jaguar parts dept (two dealers called), there are none available and Jaguar is looking for a new supplier -i.e. no timeline. I can have an aftermarket replacement, but I want Jaguar original.

I have a price for an aftermarket German fabric replacement, by the local top company that does the Jaguar dealer work. They said the material is original quality German fabric, with top by an established California company (they mentioned a couple, so I forgot which Mfg name), 3 year warrantee.

Maybe I am picky and an aftermarket is fine. Is there an aftermarket Mfg that makes the same exact roof? "Jaguar" in all the detail -with the little side edges above the windows, etc? That fits correctly?

Repair is under shipper insurance, so it should be made right.

Thank you

 

Sorry to hear about that. Could the whole top be re-stained? It seems like removing the roof and replacing it could damage something else. Maybe you should ask an exotic used car dealer in your area about what they would do. I'll bet this has happened before.
As for the shipper..."what an idiot"!! What's he been smok'in?

 

Bobcat
Welcome to the forum. I would check with some of the aftermarket companies. Some of the replacement tops look identical to factory. I would request a sample of the fabric to make sure that it is the same. It is quite a job to replace, I would definitely make sure the upholstery shop would be up to the task. I don't think a dye would hold on a petroleum product stain on cloth, oil seems to embed itself into the fabric. Good Luck

 

Thanks for the suggestions.
I am not replacing it myself, I am leaving the work to a professional, so I am not concerned with difficulty. I also don't want a partial fix, since it is a mistake covered by insurance. A new roof sounds like the right answer.

I found a company online called BAS Ltd, which appears to specialize in Jaguar trim. Anyone heard of them? Seems to be an established company that builds Jaguar Mfg spec product. Appear to do roof covers.

Problems happen, but it is annoying.

 

Top installation company came recommmended by the Jaguar dealer, and does their local work. When I visited, the Top company had a Porsche and some other nice vehicles being serviced.

 

The quality of your new top will be strictly dependent upon the local shop that sources the fabric and performs the labor. I have dealt with the same locally-owned ragtop/upholstery shop since the early 1980s. I know the owner well - he is there every day and whenever I need something done, I start with him. He then walks me over to his specialist for that particular job....

I trust them implicitly to repair my vehicles to better-than-factory condition. That comes with craftsmen who have 25 or 30 years in the business. If the owner tells me that the replacement fabric or leather will be better-quality than my factory materials were, I know he's confident in his workforce and his materials. He has always exceeded my expectations, and his shop has won many restoration awards over the decades. I have seen his guys replacing convertible tops and leather interiors on vehicles that are easily worth $500,000. I know I'm in the best hands in the business around these parts....

You need to find the same level of ragtop/upholstery shop in your area. They will make your convertible top better-than-factory new. Do some research, go visit, ask questions, and watch them at work. You'll be glad you invested some effort in finding the right shop for your wants and expectations....

 

There are plenty of quality ragtop craftsmen who can re-create your top to as good as or better than the original. Do your research and be confident that you will be happy with the end product.

 

Bobcat: Any updates on your top?

 

No update...non expected for weeks...

I submitted a price for replacement to the transport company and they asked if I could get a Detail price. That was scheduled, but the detailer had to cancel. I have not yet rescheduled. My insurance company is sending an adjuster this week. I scheduled that as an option to pursue if necessary -I would rather not to use it, other then as a bargaining item.

I gave the price quote provided for the "Jaguar" top, but currently only get the after market top is available.

I am busy the next three weeks, so I can't get back to this problem until early September...I will put an update out at that time.

thank you for the interest and advice.