Series 1 Bonnet hinge panel

[jagmanuk]

I noticed when closing the bonnet on my XJ6 Daimler it started to twist as it closed and seemed to want to be on top of the offside front wing instead of inside it, I also noticed I was having trouble releasing the bonnet catch (the lever pulled out but the bonnet did not easily spring up).

Further inspection showed the bonnet hinge mounting section which runs along the lower edge of the bonnet had rusted through around the offside hinge point and split the metal, no doubt helped by the weight and flexing of the metal. I removed the two bonnet catches so I can open the bonnet.

I have a feeling this issue must be fairly common, so could anyone tell me is there a repair panel available to fix this issue and where from? I assume finding a good bonnet these days is like finding hens teeth! Is the repair straightforward if I can get a panel?

[piman]

Hello Jagman,

I had a look on the Martin Robey website (if you don't know the company they produce many panels for Jaguars). and they do not list any panels for the XJ6 series 1.
Would it be easy to fabricate the area you need?

Alec

[jagmanuk]

Thanks Alec,

Yes I had already looked at Martin Robey and other suppliers, I Googled it because I found an item on Ebay which the seller claimed was a Jaguar Bonnet Hinge panel, whilst it looks similar to the part of the bonnet in question it did not detail which model. I asked the seller the question and he didn't know which model it suited as he bought a job lot of spares and the only identity on it was as titled. So I asked Ken Jenkins for his thoughts but he couldn't shed any light on it, Ken suggested, the same as you, to approach a local welder.

I think I will have to do this, the question is finding a reliable competent one! We have a club meeting this week so I will ask around to see if there are any recommendations from members.

Cheers Mike

[Dave Eynon]

Hi Mike
This is a repair I have undertaken on a S1 that had rotted out quite badly causing the same problem. Mine at the time had also rotted out below the grill so quite a bit of work was required. However, after cutting out the rot and sectioning in new material it worked out very well as it is unlikely to distort if MIG welding is used. You will need to remove and transfer the sliding plates the fixing bolts locate in and accuracy is key to success, lots of measuring. A good body shop that is skilled in panel repair rather than replacing whole panels is what you need to find. I would go for a repair rather than a second hand bonnet which may have similar issues about to erupt.
Hope this helps
Dave

[jagmanuk]

Thanks for your reply Dave,

I am currently doing as you say - looking for a "good" reliable repair body shop. Recommendation is the best method so I will ask around at the region meeting on Wednesday to see what comes up.

Thanks for your advice.

Cheers Mike