I am looking to pick up a 2013 JK Sport (23b) to build - I have had multiple soft tops but also had hard tops which I used in the winters.

I know there are drawbacks to a soft top in the winter, but I am specifically interested in the ability to gain access to the rear of the Jeep and to let me dog in and out. How rigid is the rear plastic and can it be opened - not rolled up, but unzipped and moved to allow access in and out.


I'd appreciate any feedback from members who have experience with a soft top a freezing temperatures - both good and bad!

 

I unzip both sides up to the corner then flip it on the top. The. I lift the rear of my GreatDane in lol. Sometime I zip it shut sometimes I don't and just lower it locking the bar in the grooves.

 

I unzip all but the vertical edge above the tail gate hinge and then swing the soft top open.

 

Yes, the plastic is stiffer in the cold, but when I would let my dog in or out, I would just unzip the right hand side (as you face the rear of the Jeep), up to the corner and then lift it up with the tailgate wide open, creating a right triangle opening for the dog. Either side could be unzipped though. Trying to unzip through the corners though, forget it! Too hard. Also, you didn't say what kind of dog you have, but my lab could get in and out without touching the bottom of the window as long as I held it up high. Once he's in, or out, it was a simple and easy zip straight down. Given a choice though, I preferred the hard top in winter; for the wiper, defrost, and general ease of loading.

 

As long as you don't try to roll or fold it, it's all good.

 

I've cracked mine once in 3 years, it was VERY COLD that morning though. I can't remember how cold it was that day, but it least below 10F. If it gets to cold I just let them hop over the seats.