Those U-Bolts I started with are 7.5" long. They work great for the sides but the rear window needed a longer bolt and you can see how I did that in the original post or in the below picture.



In the Channel Strut section of the store, you should see a box of springs nuts. This is what I used and they work great as the spring provide the tension to prevent the nut from falling out while your attaching the threaded end. They are also nice as the slide along the rail until tight to allow you to find the balance point for the center eye.

 

No write up yet but here is mine.

 

Finally took delivery of my 2012 JKU Rubi... now need to get a hoist up to remove my soft top (dual top group) and finally be able to easily remove the hard top so I can roll topless. First off, thanks to everyone for this badass detailed post... it's given me some great ideas for a custom made hoist for my personal needs.

Just wanted to make everyone aware, not sure how much longer this coupon code works on Harbor Freight's site (just found it) - but this code - 11207016 - shows that it's good through 4/8/12 for 25% off your order... it's 1:36AM CST here on 4/9/12 and the code still worked. They have the 440lb hoist for $99 right now - the code brings it to $75 (it was $80 shipped total).

I apologize if the code doesn't work anymore, just wanted to pass the info along in case they forget to disable it right away. YMMV.

 

Just got mine done last week. I went with an electric hoist mounted to a 'Shed' door track so I can slide it to the side of my garage. Best part is I can remove or replace the top within 15 minutes by myself!!!!

 

Pics of mine, awesome write up, thanks

 

I like these but I guess I'm missing something. The shelf to hold the freedom tops, when do you connect that? Obviously, it has to be once you have the top off? Otherwise it would be in the way as your are lowering the hooks to take off the roof. How much did you spend on supplies?

 

Made room in the garage today and built a hoist similar to your idea. Thanks

 

You unhook one side and then hook it back once the top has been raised. After the shelf is up, you just lower the top back down and all the weight is evenly distributed (sort of) on the shelf, instead of the hooks.

 

I finally built the shelf. I lined it with a moving blanket. I may still run a second source of support to ensure it didn't fall. I don't want it to fall on the Jeep, my wife's car, or my Harley.

 

What did everyone use for their hooks in the ceiling and on the platform?