Custom modular JK hardtop
08-29-2016, 02:49 AM
#1001
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
- It's one piece, not modular. The sides are not removable and it doesn't have the option of roll-up soft sides.
- The side windows don't open.
- It's got a hatch in the rear, not a barn door. No windows on either side of the hatch either.
- No rear wiper.
- There are no drip rails protecting the doors from runoff.
- According to the Smittybilt web site, the JKU version weighs 320 lbs.
None of the above is meant to be a criticism, I'm just pointing out the differences - it's really not at all like my design.
They did hit a reasonable price point, so if people like the styling and limited set of features it offers, and can deal with the one-piece/320-lb. design, it may be a good option for them.
I saw it last fall at the SEMA show, here are a few photos I took there.
On the SEMA top, the Alpine windows were plastic. Hopefully they've changed them to glass, because the plastic will scratch but will also probably cloud over time, the same as many headlight lenses do these days.
Last edited by jscherb; 08-29-2016 at 02:59 AM.
08-29-2016, 07:49 AM
#1002
I've been asked a few times about the Smittybilt's new "Safari Top", several people even asked if I had anything to do with the design. I had nothing to do with it, and aside from a similar name and four Alpine windows it's very different than my Safari Cab design. Some of the differences...
- It's one piece, not modular. The sides are not removable and it doesn't have the option of roll-up soft sides.
- The side windows don't open.
- It's got a hatch in the rear, not a barn door. No windows on either side of the hatch either.
- No rear wiper.
- There are no drip rails protecting the doors from runoff.
- According to the Smittybilt web site, the JKU version weighs 320 lbs.
None of the above is meant to be a criticism, I'm just pointing out the differences - it's really not at all like my design.
They did hit a reasonable price point, so if people like the styling and limited set of features it offers, and can deal with the one-piece/320-lb. design, it may be a good option for them.
- It's one piece, not modular. The sides are not removable and it doesn't have the option of roll-up soft sides.
- The side windows don't open.
- It's got a hatch in the rear, not a barn door. No windows on either side of the hatch either.
- No rear wiper.
- There are no drip rails protecting the doors from runoff.
- According to the Smittybilt web site, the JKU version weighs 320 lbs.
None of the above is meant to be a criticism, I'm just pointing out the differences - it's really not at all like my design.
They did hit a reasonable price point, so if people like the styling and limited set of features it offers, and can deal with the one-piece/320-lb. design, it may be a good option for them.
08-29-2016, 10:23 AM
#1003
JK Super Freak
The Smiity Built may be lacking in several areas, BUT - it's available now, and will appeal to those who want a hardtop for Security reasons. Price affordable ?
When is the Modular Hardtop in this thread going to be available ? What will it cost ?
The Silver Lining is that DIY people can make their own, thanks to the detailed instructions and pix.
When is the Modular Hardtop in this thread going to be available ? What will it cost ?
The Silver Lining is that DIY people can make their own, thanks to the detailed instructions and pix.
08-29-2016, 10:58 AM
#1004
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
I don't plan for my JK Safari Cab to become a commercial product.
08-29-2016, 12:01 PM
#1005
JK Enthusiast
Join Date: Jul 2016
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Wow, too bad because I'd be interested in getn one for my 2 door jscherb. Amazing work! I love the fact that your design can be configured the way you like AND it's truly functional. Total props and if it's ever available, I'll start saving now for it!
08-29-2016, 04:09 PM
#1006
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
The JK Safari with the doors, side panels and barn door upper removed. The c-pillars for the soft sides are in place behind the rear door openings, although I haven't gotten around to painting them Spice yet, they're still unfinished white fiberglass.
).
08-29-2016, 04:10 PM
#1008
JK Super Freak
Thread Starter
The c-pillars aren't required, they're just to provide a place to attach the front of the soft sides and a place for the door to seal against. Here's a few shots with the pillars removed.
Removing all of these parts has no effect on the load capacity of the roof rack - the roof rack is supported by the roll bars, so no weight is borne by the roof panel.
Removing all of these parts has no effect on the load capacity of the roof rack - the roof rack is supported by the roll bars, so no weight is borne by the roof panel.
08-29-2016, 09:59 PM
#1010
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The c-pillars aren't required, they're just to provide a place to attach the front of the soft sides and a place for the door to seal against. Here's a few shots with the pillars removed.
Removing all of these parts has no effect on the load capacity of the roof rack - the roof rack is supported by the roll bars, so no weight is borne by the roof panel.
Removing all of these parts has no effect on the load capacity of the roof rack - the roof rack is supported by the roll bars, so no weight is borne by the roof panel.
