Side repeater lamps for US sped'd XJS

[stuart1927]

Hi Folks


I just returned to the UK after 5 years in the USA. I brought back 2 XJS's, a 96 4.0L celebration convertible and a 94 6.0L V12 coupe.

I'm now getting round to getting them registered and will need to get them mot'd. The only thing I think they need is side repeater lamps. As both cars were sold in the USA when new, they don't have the side repeaters....just a jaguar badge in their place. I think you can buy the repeaters fairly cheap still, but I was curious if they are definitely required and if so....how easy to retrofit?

I was hoping the wiring may already be there, but this is probably wishful thinking!

Anybody tackled this or know if it's needed?

Many thanks

Stuart

[stuart1927]

anyone out there?!

[davidr]

Hi Stuart - I guess the reason that so many people have looked at your post but not replied is because they don't know!
I would guess that Construction and Use Regulations would mean that you do need side repeaters but the MOT regulations can be checked on line fairly easily.
Like you, I would think that the wiring will be in there somewhere as I don't think Jaguar would have gone to the trouble and expense of producing and stocking a different wiring loom for the US market.
From memory, the pre-facelift indicator repeater lamp comes with a length of wire and bullet connectors that push through a grommet in the inner wing. You may find the connectors inside the engine compartment.
I can't remember the arrangement on facelift cars.
There's only one way to find out which is to get in there and have a look!
Whether it's an MOT requirement or not, I think it's a good idea to fit them anyway as it will be safer.
Now I think about it more, didn't the US spec cars have bigger square indicator repeaters? Maybe that changed?

[poprivet]

You could get the garage to do a 'pre MOT' where the tester will give it a thorough examination and will point out any areas that would be of concern.
Extra cost to an official MOT but no fail paperwork on record and it would also pick up any other problems you may not have considered.

[stuart1927]

Thanks for the replies guys.

I had a look at the weekend. The wiring may be there....not behind the wing, but the wiring loom above it in the engine bay has what looks like two "spare" connectors on each side. I suspect these may be the wires for the side repeater indicators.

I know nothing about electrical stuff, so may see if I can find an auto electrician who can check it out. I found some repeaters on ebay that look like they may be a fit, so will see if they are suitable.


Thanks again!

stuart

[stuart1927]

So I thought I'd just post an update to this for anyone else who has a similar issue.

The wiring was not present unfortunately. Luckily, I found a company in Southampton who came out to the house and wired the new repeater lamps for both cars for only £150. Likely most auto electrical companies would be able to do this. They had to take a feed from near the main lights, but did a great job and you'd never know it wasn't original.

One more thing crossed off the list!