greetings fellow enthusiasts!
I have some questions about XK150 grills - can someone help?

1) Are the grills sized differently among the roadster, DHC, and coupe versions of the XK150?

2) Is there anyway to tell if a grill is an original part, or a repro?

3) Finally - does it matter? Do they look/fit - better - if original? Or last longer? or ...?

My understanding is that original grills were chromed brass. And repro's are chromed metal alloy of some sort. Obviously if they are covered in chrome its a bit tough to determine whats underneath.

XKs Unlimited has a few 'original' but they are very pricey.

thank you for your help anyone!!

Submitted by brianscats@sym… on Tue, 10/11/2011 - 10:20

I found out 35 years ago that the MK 1 saloon grille is almost the same as the XK 150 but the difference is in the top curvature. Perhaps the re-production grilles were taken from the sedan grille rather than an XK 150 one.

Submitted by SC37-25619J on Sun, 09/25/2011 - 18:55

Greg the reproduction grills have a slightly different curve to it so the badge holder sometimes need to be shaped then rechromed. Overall the quajity of the reproductions I have is excellent. Idealy the grill is fit to the bonnet before painting so if any modifications are nec its not a big deal . Mike Mueller

Submitted by NE08-63766 on Sat, 09/24/2011 - 21:16

Hi Greg,
#1, all the same, BD-13022
#2, you answered your own question at the end
#3, probably the original will fit better, there are 6 holes in the bonnet for the grill mtg. if the reproduction is off on those you're screwd. I would be leary on those "originals". I know a shop that makes the reproductions for XK's, I sent him my original 150 grill in order for him to make reproductions. When he returned it I had it rechromed & looked as good as new.

Regards, Otto M.

Submitted by bonnettoboot@e… on Sat, 09/24/2011 - 20:57

Greg, they are the same throughout the 150 series, The original units even if old, can usually be recognised by their superior finish, i doubt if any reproduction can be made as well as the brass ones. But, very few people would even know which is which! If there are original types available find out if they are new or refurbished. The refurbished will not be as good as the new.