John, Congratulations. Well done. I installed these on my series 2 25 years ago. I can't remember how I did it but I am thankful that I don't have to do it again. John

I used to restore etypes 30-40 years ago and there were some original old stock trims available then. They were more consistent in size and shape and generally fitted more easily than aftermarket stuff. I used to buy 4-5 sets of aftermarket trims and choose the ones that fitted. The rest were returned as faulty. Washer thickness also played a big part in the ease of fitment. If everything was ok,then they would just simply clip in place,if not it was a real pain, as you've found out. Anyway, your final result looks good 👍.

@johncooper6950

Жыл бұрын

Hi Douglas, thank you for this feedback. I have to believe that the assembly on the line went better than my attempts in the garage. I feel better now with my end result.

Excellent. I agree very hard to do. Remember, most people will never see the flaws you see. It looks great.

I’ve done this several times I found the best way was to use 2 or maybe 3 washer’s where needed that brings it up enabling it to clip over the rivet without crushing

When I built my "hot-rod" Corvette LT-1 powered '62 Jag E Type Coupe with a '73 hood way back in the early 80's, I remember doing this but as I recall, my method was a bit different. Instead of trying to SNAP the trim over the rivet heads, I used a little bit a grease and SLID each chrome trim piece on starting at the bottom rivet. Pushing slowly upwards, the top or leading end of trim captured the next rivet head up the line and so forth until they were all secured. However, I always preferred the glass covered headlights and since this particular "E" wasn't anywhere near original, I always regretted not choosing to go with the older Series 1 headlights. When completed, my car was a 450 hp rocket ship with flared fenders, 10" custom Borrani Wire Wheels, a Muncie M-22 Rockcrusher 4 speed and a whole slew of non-stock parts. I kept and drove the car for about ten years, sold it and the guy I sold it to sold it to somebody in Italy. The guy I sold the car to actually did change the headlights to the Series 1 covered style. I'll see if I can find that information. Also, sorry you had such a hard time with the trim. Here's the car I built but it was changed somewhat and isn't exactly how it was when I sold it. If you're interested, let me know and I can find a photo or two of the way it was when I owned it. www.californiaclassix.com/archive/62_Jag_XK-E_c424.html

@johncooper6950

Жыл бұрын

Hi Louis - nice care! I actually tried your method, but I could only get the trim about 2/3rds in place before it just stuck. thats why I went to using the same idea but using a shorter slide length. Even then it was tough to move the trim. As always, a little lubricant never hurts.

I spent 3 weeks on my series 1 headlight arrangement, once I was happy with the fitment, I glued the chrome, the seal, and the lens together, this was held in position overnight with 20 folder clips and is now fitted as a complete gap free assembly. I also modified the arrangement under the bonnet (hood) so as to facilitate adjustment of the headlight beam without needing to remove the lens.

@joeconnolly89

Жыл бұрын

in the factory it took less than 10 mins

@guantou2520

Жыл бұрын

@@joeconnolly89 Factory bonnet, factory chrome, factory lens, factory seal. Doubt they would fit aftermarket items in 10 minutes.

John, I take it your trims and rivets etc are aftermarket items? I’m wondering if it’s any easier with the originals? I’ve preserved mine and had the trims rechromed but won’t be up to this stage for some time but I like your method re the notch and slide That’s thinking outside the square. 👍🏻

@johncooper6950

Жыл бұрын

Hi - I am not sure if it is easier with original trims, but I suspect that the issues are fundamentally the same.

My chrome trims are held on with 3 self tappers each side. The PO did that so I am guilt free. The chrome trim over the windshield rubbers and rear hatch (69-FHC) are the same faff. Keep going John, you're getting there.

@johncooper6950

Жыл бұрын

Hi Hugh, well adding self-tappers is certainly easier for sure. Honestly, I am very happy with the outcome on my car even though it cost me two sets or parts and a lot of time.