by Dave Logan
Torque Correspondent
One of the great things that make Jeeps unique is their removable tops. Nothing else feels as good as riding in the wind on a warm day with the top down. Dogs love it, too.
But, inevitably, soft tops need to be replaced. Zippers fail and fabric shrinks over time.
There are several styles of soft top replacements to fit your needs.
Replacement Fabric and Windows:
If your Jeep Wrangler originally came with a soft top and the original hardware is still good, you may just want to replace the fabric and windows.
Replacement tops are available in a variety of factory colors from many manufacturers. Soft top brands include our Quadratop line, as well as TacTik, MasterTop, Bestop, Rugged Ridge, Crown, Rampage, Rough Country, and more.
These soft tops replacements can be purchased with clear or tinted windows, and there are “Good, Better, Best” levels of fabric quality too.
Sailcloth and Twill material are thicker, more durable, and seriously reduce the flapping noise usually associated with thinner tops.
Additionally, all Jeep Wranglers have had half doors available. They were a standard feature from 1987 through 2006. Naturally, the upper half door windows need new “skins” from time to time. That’s because the clear plastic windows get scratches or can haze over with use. In cold weather they can even crack. The zippers get a lot of use as well.
So, when deciding on a new replacement soft top, be sure to select a kit that includes the matching upper door skins if you have half doors so everything matches. Your old upper windows can be cut off and the new ones will slide over the metal frame. They simply attach with hook and loop material.
Full Replacement Soft Top:
If your original hardware is damaged or not working correctly, then it makes sense to choose a new top that includes a fresh hardware system, and there are a number of suppliers for that as well.
The new bows and brackets just bolt on where the old factory ones were removed.
Also, if your Wrangler has a hardtop and you want to enjoy that open-air feeling during the warmer months, you can buy a complete soft top kit that includes everything you need.
Frameless Soft Tops:
If installing a hardware system with that new top does not interest you, then another option these days is a frameless design that attaches to the windshield header and stretches over the sport cage. It then attaches to the body in the rear corners.
These tops can be installed or removed easily, which is certainly a valuable option on nice summer days.
The lack of factory bows means that these tops have a slanted “fastback” appearance behind the doors. Some Frameless tops will also include removable windows. Removing the side and rear windows will essentially provide you with a summer-style top.
Summer Tops:
Finally, there is an assortment of summer tops that attach to the Jeep’s windshield header and cover the front passengers while others cover the front and rear occupants. These tops are commonly known as bimini or bikini tops.
Some are made of the same fabric found in soft tops while others are made of a mesh that provides some shade, but are still rather open to the sun.
If you are concerned about rain, you can add a windstopper rear window behind the front passengers, and add a cargo cover over the rear cargo area to protect your gear. These won’t be totally waterproof covers, but will do a good job shielding you from inclement weather.
The possibilities to these tops are endless, and you are sure to find one that will suit your needs as you enjoy your Jeep.
Related Articles:
When Should I Replace My Jeep Soft Top?
