My sub-$20 hard top storage solution

[mmccurdy]

Not the most beautiful thing but I declare it a success. Picked up a couple of tie down straps and some screw eyes (all of this was shockingly cheap at Home Depot). Sorry for the crappy phone cam pics -- figured they get the idea across okay.

I dropped the little finger screws from the front freedom top panels through the rearmost holes in the top to keep it from sliding off the strap, secured the liftgate with a small piece of tape (it basically stays put anyway, but was worried about it flying up).

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/162/329612444_3fb3920600.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/147/329612640_5f206bd671.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/155/329613002_df69a01ad7.jpg?v=0

[OJMiles]

nice, i like it!

[wayoflife]

Great job! I did something a lot like that for my TJ and will definitely do it on the other side of the garage for my JK too. The only thing I would recommend you doing differently is adding a 2x4 for the rear of the hard top to sit on. Without it, your top will run the risk of pulling apart. After some time, this will make it difficult to install on your Jeep...

http://www.4x4xplor.com/images/hardtop-hoist/DSC06715.jpg

http://www.4x4xplor.com/images/hardtop-hoist/DSC06716.jpg

http://www.4x4xplor.com/images/hardtop-hoist/DSC06717.jpg

http://www.4x4xplor.com/images/hardtop-hoist/DSC06721.jpg

:cool:

[mike79]

how hard is it to get the top off with two people?

[American_Dream]

nice setup, ill have to consider something like that in my garage. I would hate to have to store the hardtop under a tarp in the back yard...

[wayoflife]

how hard is it to get the top off with two people?

With two people, it's a piece of cake. The problem is where to store it once it's off. ;)

[Rubimon]

What is the best way to keep the rear window from popping up?

[HappyCurmudgeon]

why-oh-why did they make those things white inside? :naw:

doesnt that make it a bear seeing out the rear at night with all that white reflecting light inside the cabin?:confused:

I like the storage idea.

[jdrogers]

doesnt that make it a bear seeing out the rear at night with all that white reflecting light inside the cabin?:confused:

Nope, no issues with reflected light inside the hard top at night. The inside is a flat (matte) finish.

[joss097]

No problem with light but avery fingers I have put on it have to be wash. Wish it was another color or at least, offer 2 choices

[wayoflife]

What is the best way to keep the rear window from popping up?

So far as I know, it should just stay closed by itself. :)

[Rubimon]

It does until you turn your back, then it pops back up! I can put a bungee around the back from screw eye to screw eye. I might just get one of those "hoist a tops" with the t-bar. I think the window has to stay up with those anyway since they hook in the window area.

The 2dr top is a pain to hook the front edge. There is no lip like the TJ tops or the 4dr tops. That front edge is real thin too so the t-tops can sit in there.

[mmccurdy]

Yeah the top will pop up if you bump it, but it doesn't take much to hold it down. I used a small piece of masking tape (lightly applied) and it's holding no problem.

[jkmon]

Cool setup, I'll have to mcgyver something up in the spring. I only have a single car garage and I will have my new JK hard top and my TJ to store.

[nitrozahn]

great setup. I'll have to give that a try when I finally get my jk

[JK4ME]

Has anyone tried to disconnect the hydraulic supports to keep the window from popping open?

[canadianjeeper]

I noticed you have a Rack hung above the Freedom top.. Does it fit on the Freedom top? if so, how?
I have a Thule Basket (similar to your rack) and I'm trying to find a solution to put it on the Freedom top and would very much like some feedback.

[Rubimon]

I noticed you have a Rack hung above the Freedom top.. Does it fit on the Freedom top? if so, how?
I have a Thule Basket (similar to your rack) and I'm trying to find a solution to put it on the Freedom top and would very much like some feedback.

I hope it is okay to answer for wayoflife. That basket is part of a complete rack system that mounts to the base of the windshield columns and the back corners of the jeep. No weight is supported by the top. I am sure there are companies working on a similar type rack for the JK and will probably be out soon. The top and rack you see pictured is for the TJ.

Your owners manual specifically says not to add any weight to the top as it is not meant to support it. I see some people adding light weight racks to the gutter rails, but I think it is typically for their skiis or snowboards. I don't think I would even do that, but it probably would work okay for lighter items.

[mmccurdy]

I have a Thule Basket (similar to your rack) and I'm trying to find a solution to put it on the Freedom top and would very much like some feedback.

I picked up a set of Yakima 58" load bars and universal rain gutter clamps which fit decently on the hard top. (I say "decently" because when tightened they sort of squeeze the main part of the roof in a way that I'm not 100% comfortable with -- gear is very secure though.)

Haven't tried the Thule universal clamps, they may work better.

Also, I'm just using mine for skis at the moment. I'm a little leery of loading it down much more, but the hard top is surprisingly sturdy feeling, so may be fine...

Here's a pic of my setup:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/74526390@N00/329618646/

[shredX]

Hey MMCCURDY or WAYOFLIFE...

Nice job on the storage solution.

Can you remove the top by your selves, or does it still require two people? The top is a little heavy for my wife, and I usually wheel alone.

I may have to buy the hoist-a-top if it's a two man job.

Thanks!

[mmccurdy]

Can you remove the top by your selves, or does it still require two people? The top is a little heavy for my wife, and I usually wheel alone.


It definitely makes it easier to handle alone -- I have had my wife help me each time I've had to lower it, but it was more to help guide it and let one of the ratchets out.

I'm guessing it would be possible to do it yourself, just a little slow going, since you'd need to let a few inches or so out in the front, walk to the back, let a few more inches out, etc. until it seats.

If quick one-man operation is a must, you may be better off with one of the commercial products. Between my wife or a friend, I can usually sucker someone into lending me a quick hand.

[Rubimon]

It definitely makes it easier to handle alone -- I have had my wife help me each time I've had to lower it, but it was more to help guide it and let one of the ratchets out.

I'm guessing it would be possible to do it yourself, just a little slow going, since you'd need to let a few inches or so out in the front, walk to the back, let a few more inches out, etc. until it seats.

If quick one-man operation is a must, you may be better off with one of the commercial products. Between my wife or a friend, I can usually sucker someone into lending me a quick hand.

I agree! I have the same set-up. I do it myself, but you do have to walk back and forth lowering a few inches each time. I will get the hoist a top eventually for convenience sake, but for now this is fine. The new two door is a little harder to hook up in the front since there is not long lip like the four door. I use a different type of hook so I don't ruin the top.

I will leave the four hooks and use them with the hoist-a-top to secure the top so it is not just hanging in one place only

[shredX]

Thanks to you both!

[Jeephrog]

I took the Hard Top of this weekend and had to figure out how to store it. I got my idea from this thread and modified it a little bit.
As you can see, it also accomodates the removeable panels and will hold the soft top next winter.

Here's links to some pictures:

http://www.rocketspeed.net/jeep/DSC00743.JPG
http://www.rocketspeed.net/jeep/DSC00744.JPG

The only extra materials I used from the above postings was 4 8" 2x4's that I paid $11.00 for.

[rm1515]

That is exactly what I plan on doing.. nice work!!

[Rubimon]

The idea is good, but makes it difficult to manage with only one person. I used the 2x4 in the back and then just hooked straps to the front corners. That way one person can lift it off.

Then once it is off, I have wood slats that run across inside the top with bolts that drop through the mounting holes. This does two things, keeps the top from deforming and gives a place to store the panels. Same idea as yours, just a little more managable for one person.

Don't have pics right now as the top is on my Jeep. I will try to get some soon if anybody needs to see them.

[Jeephrog]

The idea is good, but makes it difficult to manage with only one person. I used the 2x4 in the back and then just hooked straps to the front corners. That way one person can lift it off.

Then once it is off, I have wood slats that run across inside the top with bolts that drop through the mounting holes. This does two things, keeps the top from deforming and gives a place to store the panels. Same idea as yours, just a little more managable for one person.

Don't have pics right now as the top is on my Jeep. I will try to get some soon if anybody needs to see them.

Yeah, I figured that I have 3 sons and they can help me twice a year getting it up and down. :yup:

[olrcoach]

Great ideas for the hoists, but after viewing all of the pics you have all guilted me into going out and cleaning my garage!

How on earth do you spend weekends in the woods and still have garages that are cleaner than commercial kitchens?

[Rubimon]

Great ideas for the hoists, but after viewing all of the pics you have all guilted me into going out and cleaning my garage!

How on earth do you spend weekends in the woods and still have garages that are cleaner than commercial kitchens?

I would post my hoist pictures but I haven't vacuumed the carpet in my garage in days!:D

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o57/Rubimon/carpet.jpg

[chris269]

I would post my hoist pictures but I haven't vacuumed the carpet in my garage in days!:D

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o57/Rubimon/carpet.jpg

why in the world do you have carpet in your garage? Do you live somewhere that it doesn't rain?

[Rubimon]

why in the world do you have carpet in your garage? Do you live somewhere that it doesn't rain?

Haven't you heard the song "Seems it never rains in Southern California"? Well actually it rains once in a while but the weather people schedule during the night while we are sleeping. That's why we have to pay so much to live here. Well, that and the fact that there are hot chicks roller blading all over the place in their bikinis.:eek!:

[JKFirefighter]

Rubimon, nice looking jeep, nice clean garage, ugliest vaccum I've seen on this forum.

[Rubimon]

Rubimon, nice looking jeep, nice clean garage, ugliest vaccum I've seen on this forum.

And yet, it is also the nicest looking vacuum you've seen on this forum!:yup:

[cmnah]

I don't have a garage and was wondering what anyone thought about storing the hard top in a similar manor but under a deck. It would be somewhat exposed to weather - rain dripping from the deck and just the general outside moisture and dust.

Any opinions???

[Rubimon]

I don't have a garage and was wondering what anyone thought about storing the hard top in a similar manor but under a deck. It would be somewhat exposed to weather - rain dripping from the deck and just the general outside moisture and dust.

Any opinions???

This system would probably work for you. 4wd.com probably has it too.

http://www.quadratec.com/products/product_search.php?pn=12020.411.07,12020.410.07,11 091.211.07,11091.212.07

[turb0dog]

I hate to be a troll but has anyone else tried a setup like Wayoflife did in the third post for this thread (http://jk-forum.com/showthread.php?t=1035)? I have a 4 door JK and a wife who is unwilling to help out with the removal process.

It looks like this is a great removal/storage solution. So this leads to yet another newbie question. What does the back top weigh for a 4 door? (or a two door for anyone else with the same question)

I really appreciate any info. I'm itching to get the top off of mine ASAP. The front panels are coming off the first day that Chicago gets about 50!

[Rubimon]

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o57/Rubimon/IMG_3583.jpg

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o57/Rubimon/IMG_3592.jpg

I put the block on the 2x4 so the top wouldn't rest on the skinny edge. I cut it to the shape of the corner to lock it in place better. Dont know if that step is necessary, but I did it anyway.

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o57/Rubimon/IMG_3584.jpg

I put some wood slats (not pictured) across the inside and drop a bolt through the holes. That way I can store my panels and keep my top from warping. I think I will carpet a piece of plywood though to do the same.

Hope that helps. I can take the top on or off in about 15-20 minutes just because you have to walk to each corner and raise a little at a time. But I don't need any help doing it. I will rig up something like the hoist a top in the future to eliminate that problem.



http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o57/Rubimon/IMG_3585.jpg

Soft top rack. If you hang it on the wall you only need the two ladder hangers. (Home Depot a couple of bucks ea.) On the ceiling I used a couple of bike hooks and a piece of PVC to hold the arms up.

[turb0dog]

Looks great Rubimon. Thanks for seconding Wayoflife's project. I dont mind 15-20 minutes of work as long as its a solo project.

[Rubimon]

By the way, keep the straps with the release levers at the bottom. That way they are always with in reach for lowering it.

[DBB888]

I like spending $20 better than a few hundred for the top removal hoist and "t" bar.

[PeterBateman]

Great job! I did something a lot like that for my TJ and will definitely do it on the other side of the garage for my JK too. The only thing I would recommend you doing differently is adding a 2x4 for the rear of the hard top to sit on. Without it, your top will run the risk of pulling apart. After some time, this will make it difficult to install on your Jeep...

http://www.4x4xplor.com/images/hardtop-hoist/DSC06715.jpg

http://www.4x4xplor.com/images/hardtop-hoist/DSC06716.jpg

http://www.4x4xplor.com/images/hardtop-hoist/DSC06717.jpg

http://www.4x4xplor.com/images/hardtop-hoist/DSC06721.jpg

:cool:

Hey, I went and bought the things you used today. Is there any way for you to tell me (and others) the distance between each hook in the ceiling, and the length you cut the 2x4 to? Thanks.

[Rubimon]

You are pretty much at the mercy of your ceing joists unless you mount a 2x4 to the ceiling first and put your eye hooks into that space how you want tnem. It works out pretty well as my ceiling joists are spaced about the same width as the Jeep top 64" (16, 32, 48, 64). If you are a little wider it wont kill ya. I cut my 2x4 74" , 5" wider on each side. Hope that helps.

[PeterBateman]

You are pretty much at the mercy of your ceing joists unless you mount a 2x4 to the ceiling first and put your eye hooks into that space how you want tnem. It works out pretty well as my ceiling joists are spaced about the same width as the Jeep top 64" (16, 32, 48, 64). If you are a little wider it wont kill ya. I cut my 2x4 74" , 5" wider on each side. Hope that helps.

it does alot, thank you!

[cmnah]

I slightly modified the design - I used an eye bolt instead of the eye screw. I decided to do this so that I would not worry about it pulling out of the wood.

I too cut my 2X4 74 inches allowing 5 inches on each side. If I remember correctly you need to have a total of at least 6 feet clearance for the top - front to back. Top to bottom you need about 36 inches (this may actually be less but this is what I allowed.

I've not taken the top off yet but I'm ready to store it.

[possumface]

did my hanging contraption today :eek!: cut wood about 70" used screw eyes ,,hit ceiling rafters 24" on center i used 2x4 in both back and front can u get the 2x4 under the thing pretty easy in both rear and toward the front ? cause this is going to be a one man show ..i got the 2dr jeep so the hardtop is smaller i think

[Rubimon]

If you put a 2x4 in the front, you'd better be strong enough to lift your whole Jeep up to the ceiling!

[turb0dog]

Finally got the time to do this. I used a 2x4 on the rear and just the hooks up front. it works perfectly. I wont bother posting pics as its the same as everyone else's, just in a much dirtier garage.

Using it to remove the rear is super easy, the hardest part was backing my new baby back into the garage to put its hat back on. Chicago is supposed to get T-storms tonight so i only got an hour of toplessness.

Heres a little tip for anyone else doing this. If your bolt sticks thru the 2x4, be sure to cut it down or duct tape it up. Id hate to scratch the paint for something this stupid. I remembered at the very last minute.

[Rubimon]

Also, make sure you open your front doors (on a 2 DR) or lift the front off first so it doesn't bind when lifting the back to put the 2 x 4 under.

[artieandgumbo]

How did you lift it from the Jeep to the roof? Does it hoist-up in some manner?

[Rubimon]

QUOTE=artieandgumbo;56820]How did you lift it from the Jeep to the roof? Does it hoist-up in some manner?[/QUOTE]

Just pull up on the straps. You have to walk around lifting eackh one a little at a time. It doesn't take long.


http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o57/Rubimon/IMG_3583.jpg

[artieandgumbo]

Regarding the 2x4 - do you put it on the top just after you remove it from the Jeep or do you slide it back a little, put the 2X4 on and then lift it?

[Rubimon]

Regarding the 2x4 - do you put it on the top just after you remove it from the Jeep or do you slide it back a little, put the 2X4 on and then lift it?

After opening the front doors, I just lift the back up and slide the 2 x4 underneath, hook up the straps and start lifting. I never tried sliding it back first because I dont want to scratch the jeep with the guide pin. If you hook the front first, lift it a little, then slide it back, that might work. I will have to try that next time, which could be in the fall. LOL

[artieandgumbo]

Thanks. I'll give it a go this weekend since it's supposed to be crappy outside. Then I'll have to figure out how to get the soft top to work!:eek!:

['07JK Fan]

I took the Hard Top of this weekend and had to figure out how to store it. I got my idea from this thread and modified it a little bit.
As you can see, it also accomodates the removeable panels and will hold the soft top next winter.

Here's links to some pictures:

http://www.rocketspeed.net/jeep/DSC00743.JPG
http://www.rocketspeed.net/jeep/DSC00744.JPG

The only extra materials I used from the above postings was 4 8" 2x4's that I paid $11.00 for.

Too cool! :cool: As warmer weather approaches, I've been wondering what I was going to do with my Freedom Top... I like to pinch pennies when I can and I don't see myself shelling out $$$ for one of those fancy commercially-available rigs. I'd rather spend the money on mod's for my JK. Great thread!:yup: Thanks all!

[karl.keller@amcorpet.com]

if they were not white with as littl acc. lighting that is available you would still not be able to see a thing inside at night like "I know that my lic and reg. are in here somewhere officer!" or "I cant find my keys, my beer, or my stereo remote this sucks"

[DarkRenegade]

This looks great, but how hard is it to lift using the ratchets? Seems like it would bind or take a lot of force. I have a 10 ft. ceiling in my garage, is that too high to easily ratchet lift? I would like it stored up near the rafters. Is this meant for long term storage, or is this something I could use on a daily-weekly basis?

[turb0dog]

I've had mine up for a few months now and have had no problems what so ever. It is not difficult to lift up, just a little time consuming as you have to go an inch or two at a time at each corner. it doesnt take much force at all actually.

My garage ceiling is pretty much like yours. I have the ratchets on the low end (rather than up top) so its easy enough to lift it just high enough. I use the "rear 2x4" method, so i just go so high as to clear the eye level brake light from the 2x4 and its done. takes about 15 minutes all together.

I lift the top off every weekend as my JK is a daily driver and the train station I park at M-F is not exactly the place to leave a topless vehicle.

One tip, leave room behind your jeep to swing open the tailgate when youre putting hooks in the ceiling. I didnt think of that but luckily mine just clears (barely).

[DarkRenegade]

Thanks, that was helpful. Now do you just leave it low enough to drive away, or do you hoist it all the way up to the ceiling? Is it hard to line up for reinstall?

Also, what kind of seals are under the hard top? Does repeatedly removing and installing hurt them? I'm thinking about getting the thumbscrews from Quadratec, so I could do it often.

[Rubimon]

Thanks, that was helpful. Now do you just leave it low enough to drive away, or do you hoist it all the way up to the ceiling? Is it hard to line up for reinstall?

Also, what kind of seals are under the hard top? Does repeatedly removing and installing hurt them? I'm thinking about getting the thumbscrews from Quadratec, so I could do it often.

I hoist mine up to the ceiling so I don't keep banging my head. It's easy to line up. You just start lowering straps, the longer they get the more you can move the top around to line up the pins.

As far as the thumb screws just get one of those little thumb wheel tools that holds the little driver bits(like $3 at sears). Stick a torx bit in it, and its just like a thumb screw. Send the extra money I just saved you to me!:yup:

[DarkRenegade]

I bought the supplies last night, and I have the same brand straps as shown in this post, except mine are red instead of blue because they are 10 foot, not 6. They are rated for 450 lbs, but man do they look thin. I'm also concerned because it has a relatively tight hook (so do the blue ones), that fits nearly sideways under the front corner of the top. I saw that's how the ones in this post fit, but it seems like that would put a lot of stress on that lip, and probably wear off the finish. Is that true?

Also, what size eye hooks are you using? length, thickness? I may just consider going with the Lange, as I have a 10 ft. ceiling in my garage, and 1-2 inches per corner at a time may take way too long to store at rafter height, plus I'd need to use a ladder to reach the cams.

Oh, by the way, got a good deal on thumbscrews on eBay, only $15 shipped. Check it out item # 330119769858.

[Rubimon]

I bought the supplies last night, and I have the same brand straps as shown in this post, except mine are red instead of blue because they are 10 foot, not 6. They are rated for 450 lbs, but man do they look thin. I'm also concerned because it has a relatively tight hook (so do the blue ones), that fits nearly sideways under the front corner of the top. I saw that's how the ones in this post fit, but it seems like that would put a lot of stress on that lip, and probably wear off the finish. Is that true?

Also, what size eye hooks are you using? length, thickness? I may just consider going with the Lange, as I have a 10 ft. ceiling in my garage, and 1-2 inches per corner at a time may take way too long to store at rafter height, plus I'd need to use a ladder to reach the cams.

Oh, by the way, got a good deal on thumbscrews on eBay, only $15 shipped. Check it out item # 330119769858.

I put the cams on the bottom, it's easier reach them plus it easier to let them down. As they near the ceiling, I hold the strap with one hand and and push up on the strap with a stick. I go alot more than 2" at a time, probably like 10". I climb up on the Jeep to start letting them down. No ladder required.

[DarkRenegade]

This may be a stupid question, but how do you lower it using the cam-buckle straps? When you press the release level, doesn't it just release? How are you guys safely controlling the lowering?


BY THE WAY DO NOT EVER BUY THE LANGE HOIST-A-TOP

I actually sprang for this thing, thinking it would make things easier. First off, the frame is crap. It's made out of tiny steel rod held together with nothing more than 1/8" long tiny screws that just press against the metal, but have no nut or anything. These are like the screws you use for a computer's hard drive — real safe!

Also, if you follow their instructions exactly, the frame is about 2-inches shy of making it across the width of the top! You can slide the arms further out of the T-section, but it says to push them in so they meet in the center (and the arms are equal lengths from that center point). But this makes it seem weaker, especially since the only thing holding it together are the tiny pressure screws.

And my favorite, the manual cable puller (come-a-long) raises just fine, but try to lower it — watch out! Even when properly set up, it will ratchet down one notch at a time, then without warning, will slip and freewheel. This happened repeatedly. I'm not sure if I just got a faulty mechanism, or it's just not a good product for this purpose — but dropping your top 2 ft. at a time is not a good thing! Luckily I was just practicing with a weighted milk jug at the time.

I think I'm sending this thing back and going to the tie-strap or home-made hoist method. I simply cannot trust this product.

[Rubimon]

This may be a stupid question, but how do you lower it using the cam-buckle straps? When you press the release level, doesn't it just release? How are you guys safely controlling the lowering?

.

I just hold the strap below the buckle, so I am carrying the weight, and press the button. I lower it the amount I want and move to the next one.

[DarkRenegade]

Excellent. This really seems like the smart way to go. Another bad thing about the Lange hoist is that it is a one point system, which makes it tend to spin the top when lifted. I like how this solution anchors at all 4 corners.

What size eyehooks are you guys using? When shopping for them, I found most said that they were not suitable for overhead lifting (3/8" thick lag). Is this just overcautious?

Also, are you using plain 2x4 trusses, or do you have to reinforce?

And what weight rating straps do you use?

Thanks!

[turb0dog]

I used 3" long eye bolts and drilled straight thru the 2x4. Then just put a washer and nut on the end to hold it. I cant imagine that this isnt enough to hold the weight of the top. Ive heard some estimates on these boards saying that the top (of a 4 door) is about 100lbs.

I would have put a couple of reinforcing boards into my rafters but the builder has drywalled it up and its a pain in the ass to get to. i put "bike hooks" into the studs and give them a VERY solid and steady pull each time. So far I havent heard a peep from above.

As far as the straps go I just use the light duty version. I think they are still rated at 400lbs and were perfect at 10ft long.

So in starting this project I would give you three tips.

1. if you use eye bolts, make sure you either cut them down to size or cover them with duct tape or something UNDER the rear 2x4. It would be REALLY easy to scratch the side of your Jeep with the extra inch or so hanging under the 2x4.

2. Make sure you have clearance to open your rear gate in the position you want to lift the top off of. if youre too far back in your garage and you cant open the gate its going to be a real pain to get that rear 2x4 under the back of the top.

3. put something between the hooks and the hardtop up front. i found two small marks after just a few times lifting the top off. im sure this is normal, but why not protect it? a towel would work but i bought these rubber mats at home depot (you'd use them under carpet on stairs). Theyre about a buck each and you can just cut them in half. They have a good non-slip feel to them. i use the same things on the rear 2x4 to not scrape the hard top.

Last night I had to put the doors and top back on. It sucked to seal her back up, but it only took about 10 minutes and did it all by myself. You just cant beat this project. Thanks again Mmccurdy!

[G1Texas]

Thanks for the write ups.
G
http://my.project-jk.com/data/506/topstorage1.JPG
http://my.project-jk.com/data/506/topstorage2.JPG
http://my.project-jk.com/data/506/topstorage3.JPG

[Mark Doiron]

Nice! But, I've got to be nosy: Do you have a pool?

[G1Texas]

Nice! But, I've got to be nosy: Do you have a pool?

Nope, just lots of pool junk, lol.

['07JK Fan]

Thanks mmccurdy & Rubimon. Completed my hardtop storage hoist last night and it worked great! Running topless now & loving it!:yup::D

[Rex]

http://www.jk-forum.com/showthread.php?t=15841

[PigsEye]

Are there any pros/cons to putting a 2X4 under the front also?

[Rubimon]

Are there any pros/cons to putting a 2X4 under the front also?

The con is you would have to do it once it is in the air and off the jeep. If you were hanging it for a long period it would be wise to at least stick a board across the front with wholes for the guide pins. That would help to make sure it keeps it's shape.:yup:

[JK-RUBIJON]

Thanks I made mine kind of like yours . What a great idea. Now I am going to make a hoist and pully system with a crank.:yup: http://www.jk-forum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=3684&stc=1&d=1192153138 http://www.jk-forum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=3685&stc=1&d=1192153369

[GreytSilly]

I don't have a garage and was wondering what anyone thought about storing the hard top in a similar manor but under a deck. It would be somewhat exposed to weather - rain dripping from the deck and just the general outside moisture and dust.

Any opinions???

I don't have a hardtop on the JK but we always stored our TJ's hardtop like this for the summer. Only cost a few bucks to build and we tied a plastic tarp over it to keep the dirt and bird crap off it. Worked well, my wife and I would lift the top on and off in the spring and fall.

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h113/GreytSilly/0870d552.jpg?t=1202572228

[Bradlybob]

Looks nice and simple. How did you get it up there?
I think you might need another hot water heater though.

[bburgan]

Not the most beautiful thing but I declare it a success. Picked up a couple of tie down straps and some screw eyes (all of this was shockingly cheap at Home Depot). Sorry for the crappy phone cam pics -- figured they get the idea across okay.

I dropped the little finger screws from the front freedom top panels through the rearmost holes in the top to keep it from sliding off the strap, secured the liftgate with a small piece of tape (it basically stays put anyway, but was worried about it flying up).

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/162/329612444_3fb3920600.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/147/329612640_5f206bd671.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/155/329613002_df69a01ad7.jpg?v=0

Holy Crap, 3 water heaters?:crazyeyes:

[mcds99]

[QUOTE=wayoflife;7297]Great job! I did something a lot like that for my TJ and will definitely do it on the other side of the garage for my JK too. The only thing I would recommend you doing differently is adding a 2x4 for the rear of the hard top to sit on. Without it, your top will run the risk of pulling apart. After some time, this will make it difficult to install on your Jeep...

QUOTE]

I tell ya keeping a computer in the garage, thats just wild.

[Goose]

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h113/GreytSilly/0870d552.jpg?t=1202572228

I like this solution for those of us with no garage. I'd wondered what to do with the hardtop once the softy goes on this spring. Since mine is a 2 door, I'll have to modify it a bit with the freedom panels off, but a great idea none the less.

[dasloat]

I took the Hard Top of this weekend and had to figure out how to store it. I got my idea from this thread and modified it a little bit.
As you can see, it also accomodates the removeable panels and will hold the soft top next winter.

Here's links to some pictures:

http://www.rocketspeed.net/jeep/DSC00743.JPG
http://www.rocketspeed.net/jeep/DSC00744.JPG

The only extra materials I used from the above postings was 4 8" 2x4's that I paid $11.00 for.

After reading this thread, I made the same setup myself this weekend. I just tested it out after work and I don't think I'll be doing that again without help. It's a great solution with at least one extra set of hands, but while lowering it by myself it got off balance once and I thought I was going to damage my top.
Thankfully I was able to get it back under control.
With 2 people I expect it to go much smoother- we'll see when the weather warms up.

[dasloat]

Also, make sure you open your front doors (on a 2 DR) or lift the front off first so it doesn't bind when lifting the back to put the 2 x 4 under.

Same thing on the 4dr, just make sure to open the back doors first.

[michiganjeep2008]

Just a few questions. I'm getting the 2 door. From what I'm seening, the 2x4 just needs to be on the back, but you still need to keep the ratchets hooked to the front? Is there any damage from the ratchet hooks on the top or wrapping the strap around the front just for support? Thanks

[Rubimon]

I dont know how these guys lift it off with a 2x4 in the front also. I use the flatter hooks on the front. I also keep a couple of strips off wood the exact width to store my freedom panels on. You could drill a hole in these and drop a bolt through if you were concerned about it. This picture doesnt have the boards in it.

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o57/Rubimon/IMG_3584.jpg

[spartacus_33]

This idea looks great.. but why couldn't you also slide a 2 x 4 under the front? I would be afraid of pulling the top apart or warping if just hooking straps under the front edges.

[Rubimon]

This idea looks great.. but why couldn't you also slide a 2 x 4 under the front? I would be afraid of pulling the top apart or warping if just hooking straps under the front edges.

If you put one under the front it wouldnt lift off. I do however keep to wood planks the exact inside width sitting on the lip and store my freedom panels on them. It cant warp in and it does not seem to warp out either. If it does, my plan is to drop a bolt through the mounting holes and the plank.

[spartacus_33]

So... you don't notice the front of the top being any wider once pulled off than in it's original position? Seems like with your hooks being postioned as shown in the photo, they would tend to pull the sides of the top out, <---->. Maybe most of the weight is on the back?

I've read your post (below) several times and your second sentence doesn't make any sense to me. Do you mean "two" instead of "to". :) If so.. do you cut one for up front and one for in the center? Seems like dropping a bolt through the holes would be a good idea for long term storage.



If you put one under the front it wouldnt lift off. I do however keep to wood planks the exact inside width sitting on the lip and store my freedom panels on them. It cant warp in and it does not seem to warp out either. If it does, my plan is to drop a bolt through the mounting holes and the plank.

[spartacus_33]

Rubimon,

The more I think of it... why wouldn't the front lift off using a 2x4 for the front too?



If you put one under the front it wouldnt lift off.

[Rubimon]

My Jeep has a roll bar:D I am not strong enough to lift the top and the Jeep.:naw: Just put the board on afterward if you are concerned.

Yes that was supposed to be a "two"

[spartacus_33]

Is yours an after market roll bar or are you just being facetious? :)

I haven't really studied what might be in the way... it may not work as you say... just an idea that might put less stress on the hard top when pulling it off.
My Jeep has a roll bar:D I am not strong enough to lift the top and the Jeep.:naw: Just put the board on afterward if you are concerned.

Yes that was supposed to be a "two"

[spartacus_33]

Well,

I built my "lift" and storage rack for the hard top and drove around topless all weekend..... so cool!

BUT... this morning, it was raining, so I thought I would lift the top back on before driving to work. I removed the 2X4 that was supporting front and put the hooks under the lip of the top. Backed up the Jeep and started lowering the back. As soon as I started to release the tension from the right rear strap.... it cut loose, and the top spun under the spare out of control... landed wedged between my furnace and spare tire... with the window open and resting against the concrete floor of the garage. Scared me to death.

Surprisingly... no damage, just a couple of small scratches that are covered when the 2 front pieces are in place.

Going to look for a couple of better staps (for the rear) that are made a little better. The 4-pack that I bought ($16) don't seem to be the best quality and are "sticky"... probably have some help there too for the next time. SHEESH!

My advice... be very careful releasing these levers and have someone there the first time you do it. It all happened so fast...... still shaking from it.

[Rubimon]

I think I sort off take the weight off with one hand (down near the hook)as I release the buckle with the other and slowly lower each corner.

[spartacus_33]

I think I sort off take the weight off with one hand (down near the hook)as I release the buckle with the other and slowly lower each corner.

I think that's how I started out... but the hardware seemed really cheaply made and I think I took my hand off of the strap for just a second... to slightly adjust the release just long enough for the whole thing to come crashing down. It was really scary. :eek2:

[[N]UGE]

I took off the top on the weekend and it went well. I used some ratchet tie downs which i've seen used on here. What i'm worried about is being the top back down! i noticed there was no safe way to slowly ratchet down! should i get the non ratchet tie downs to lower the top?

[spartacus_33]

UGE;511611']I took off the top on the weekend and it went well. I used some ratchet tie downs which i've seen used on here. What i'm worried about is being the top back down! i noticed there was no safe way to slowly ratchet down! should i get the non ratchet tie downs to lower the top?

HA! I think if you can learn one thing from my almost catasrophy... have a friend there with you the first time you lower it, just in case things don't go as expected.

My Jeep is a 2dr and almost all the weight (for the top) is carried by the back 2x4. I actually started lowering the front first and the straps were just hanging there supporting nothing.

I'm either going to buy a couple to real come-a-longs that have reverse ratcheting, or modify the entire design similar to the hoist a top, where nothing hooks underneath the top.

[Rubimon]

Not sure what you guys are doing wrong. I raise and lower mine fairly quickly, without incident.

And yes, no not use the ratchet type straps, they are only good for tightening not loosening.:naw:

[spartacus_33]

Not sure what you guys are doing wrong. I raise and lower mine fairly quickly, without incident.

And yes, no not use the ratchet type straps, they are only good for tightening not loosening.:naw:

Rubimon,

So what type of device are you using to lower the top down to the Jeep? I'm looking at adding this to the design ... www.garrettwade.com/jump.jsp?itemID=110949&itemType=PRODUCT ... I do NOT want to lose control of my top again. After dodging the bullet of almost having to replace my top from dropping it.... I'm going to invest in a better reversible ratcheting device.

[Rubimon]

I just use regular tie down straps. As I think about it, I hold the free end in one hand and squeeze the buckle with the other while slowly lowering each corner 6-8 inches at a time.

[spartacus_33]

I just use regular tie down straps. As I think about it, I hold the free end in one hand and squeeze the buckle with the other while slowly lowering each corner 6-8 inches at a time.

I think what happened to me, was the cheezy ratchet buckle was sort of jammed and I was having a problem taking the tension off so I could begin to slowly lower it, exactly as you say.... but when it suddenly became unjammed... it was unexpected and the whole thing got away from me and came crashing down....:eek2:

[Rubimon]

I think what happened to me, was the cheezy ratchet buckle was sort of jammed and I was having a problem taking the tension off so I could begin to slowly lower it, exactly as you say.... but when it suddenly became unjammed... it was unexpected and the whole thing got away from me and came crashing down....:eek2:

Yeah, that is the problem with the ratchet straps, you cant release them slowly, the are only good for tightening.

[[N]UGE]

Yeah, that is the problem with the ratchet straps, you cant release them slowly, the are only good for tightening.

Ya i'll have to get the non racket ones. With the rackets ones, you can't even hold the weight with your other hand because of how it is rolled in the rachet. I'm glad I did a test with these straps before trying it with the hardtop. My girlfriend worked well for this test. ;:yup:

[YellowToy]

UGE;513885']Ya i'll have to get the non racket ones. With the rackets ones, you can't even hold the weight with your other hand because of how it is rolled in the rachet. I'm glad I did a test with these straps before trying it with the hardtop. My girlfriend worked well for this test. ;:yup:

I Agree. I tried using the ratchet straps first, but didn't feel comfortable with them. I tried a come-along, but it was way to slow. The chainfall worked pretty well. A lot of control.

In the end, I installed a winch and the "T-Frame" setup. I did put in rails so I could slide it back onto a shelf I built. I didn't like the idea of a suspended load.

The winch is an old ATV winch & I have the battery from my boat to power it.

http://my.project-jk.com/data/500/top_hoist_No_09.JPG

[IPvFletch]

What do you guys think of this, I just mocked it up...

http://www.ipvfletch.net/jeep/JK/diy-hoist.bmp

???