DIY Network

Convertible Top Replacement and Jeep Half-Top A Chrysler Sebring convertible gets a new lid, and a Jeep Wrangler gets a "half top" with fold-back sunroof. From "Weekend Mechanic" episode WKM-403

(Continued from page 2)

Project 2: Installing a Half Top on a Jeep

In a related project, Bruce removes the full top from a 1998 Jeep Wrangler and replaces it with a new "half-top" with a rear deck cover and fold-back sunroof.

The new Jeep half-top...

including fold-back sunroof.

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	Figure A
	Figure B

Steps:

• First, remove the old Jeep top, starting with the zippered-in windows.

• The rear panels simply slip out of the Jeep's belt rail system.

• After pulling a few snaps, the top and frame can be pulled forward.
  
  
• Pull the canvas over the frame (figures A and B) , then remove the screws and detach the canvas from the header.
  
  Note: If changing to a half-top style, you might want to save the old pieces you're removing for the future.
  

  	Figure C
  	Figure D

• Remove the old and dirty roll-bar covers (figure C). These are simply held on with zippers and hook and loop strips.

• You may need to disconnect the rear seatbelts from the roll-bar to remove the back covers.

• Using an awl, punch a hole into the panel below the rear seat for the Z-channel.

• Self tapping screws hold the Z-channel in place. The back curtain will snap into this channel and will be held in place behind the front seat.

• Next, install the new roll-bar covers, which are held in place with hook and loop strips and zippers (figure D).

• The new top frame goes on and is locked in place. This will allow you to position the mounting brackets.
  

  	Figure E
  	Figure F

• Drill the holes for the mounting brackets (figure E) and secure them to the Jeep's body frame using screws.

• Flip the sunroof frame over to get to the other mounting holes and drill and secure with screws.

• This takes care of the framework. The next step is to install the new roll bar cover.

• With the roll bar covers in place, attach the seat belts back.

• Now that the roll bar covers are in place, you can attach the fabric to the top of the Jeep.

• The top simply snaps into the front frame rail, slips under the door frame belt-rails, and is also secured at the corners using hook and loop tape.

• A tailgate retainer bar slips into the tonneau cover and is seated securely across the cargo door opening.
  
  
• To complete the installation, the rest of the tonneau cover is secured by slipping the plastic strips under the belt-rails (figure F).

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RESOURCES :

Electron Top Manufacturing Company
www.electron-top.com

Bestop Inc.
www.bestop.com