Learn All About Car Soft Tops

Very few cars give you the versatility and functionality to that of a jeep and that is evident from their variety of accessories. One such accessory is the soft top which again comes in many different styles to choose from. The soft top can allow you to take the car out on a sunny getaway and return with a fully functioning top with little effort. Soft tops provide the functionality of the hardtop when required and can retract or be removed with ease.

The soft top can cover the entire back of the jeep and provide many different styles and configurations for the best buy.

Here are the main types of soft tops for the Jeep:

1. Bikini Soft Top: This type covers the front occupants while retaining an open back experience for the rear passengers.

2. Safari Soft Top: This is basically an extension to the Bikini Top and offers protection for the rear passengers as well. 

3. Flip Top: This top offers the functionality of quick opening and closing of the roof with just a flip. Much like a manual convertible this soft top is ideal for changing weathers and can adapt more easily. 

There are many other types of soft tops available since every manufacturer offers a unique perspective to what a soft top for a Jeep should be like.

Soft tops come in a variety of different configurations like the all famous Bikini Top, Safari Top, Flip Top, etc. They are made of high-quality vinyl and military-grade cloths that are weather resistant and can withstand the rigors of off-roading as well. They are easy to install and may take a couple of hours for a beginner, but much less for a seasoned person. They are a perfect companion for every jeep owner and can be used in every condition be it cold or warm.

Soft tops are not as durable as hardtops and can get deteriorated and tattered more severely. The fabric material plays an important role in the durability of the soft top and lower quality soft tops don’t last long and will undergo wear and tear more easily. The soft tops also compromise the weatherproofing of the vehicle and rain cannot be kept out of the cabin. Failing to attach the anchor points and the roof supports properly can result in malfunctioning of the soft top especially at high speeds. Soft tops also restrict the vehicle from attaining very high speeds as they might completely get dislodged. Exposure to the sun on a daily basis can fade the fabric and yellow the vinyl windows in the soft tops.

Most Jeeps come with a kit that contains all the required tools for you to work on the vehicle. Here are all the essential tools you will need:

• Screwdrivers

• Ratchet

• Gloves

• Socket Set

• Bit Sockets Set

When it comes to vehicle owners choice, the brands really matter a lot. You might pay a premium for a specific car part brand, over time, as it has created a perception of quality, stability as well as trust. There are some leading car parts brands which are more than just products or services as they give rise to memories and emotions related with the quality. So have a look at some top brands for Soft Tops:

If you are considering customizing your jeep then you should have a look at other such parts:

• Soft Top Accessories

• Cab Curtains

• Jeep Cargo Net

• Truck Corner Guards

• Off-road Doors

• Stubby Trail Mirror

• Stone Guard

It is necessary to maintain the soft top in pristine conditions by taking a few measures to ensure their proper protection. Make sure to clean them after use in the wilderness. Cleaning them will rid the surface of any dirt, grime or elements that can stem stains on the fabric and eventually damage it. Store the vehicle with a soft top in the garage to prevent premature ageing in the sun and deterioration due to the elements and UV rays. Apply a layer of protectant specially designed for soft-tops to prolong their life and maintain them in good, clean conditions. An aftermarket Soft top can be a better alternative as they offer more diverse choices and lower prices which run from about 200 to 1500 $.

Installing the soft top on a Jeep is like doing a giant jigsaw puzzle that lets you ride it once you're done. There are an array of components that need to be installed in order for the soft top roof to fully enclose the cabin. soft tops have varying installation procedures depending on the manufacturer of the soft top but the location of the hardware and the mounting points remain constant. Consult you are uncertain as to how it is done and need an in depth procedure then its best to your local mechanic or someone with prior knowledge on installing a soft top. For an idea of the process involved here we will mention a simpler guide for your understanding:

• Start by examining all the content of the soft top that comes with the kit.

• Then you need to disassemble the hard top. Proceed by removing the side panel above the driver and passenger sides (also called the freedom panels). Then inside the cabin, using the appropriate tools remove the bolts holding down the panels. There are other bolts securing the roof to the frame which are located on top. Then you need to remove the connection to the hardtop located at either end of the vehicle. Once all connections and bolt are off you can free the hardtop from the vehicle frame.

• To assemble the soft top first you need to install all the brackets to the roll cage structure. Make sure to install any gaskets that come with the brackets.

• Once all brackets and hinge plates are secure using the appropriate hardware, place the soft top mechanism on the hinge plate and screw the structure down. You may need help aligning the soft top to the hinge plate. 

• Once the soft top mechanism is installed, flip the section on to the roll cage and clamp it down.

• Attach the side and rear vinyl windows and the soft top installation is complete. 

Make sure to refer to the material or instruction guide provided with the kit for a better understanding of the procedure and use the right tool to make your job easier and quicker.