x3Brian

I wanted to build a hard Safari Top that works much like a bikini top but uses my Freedom panels.

Here is my build:



I started off with a used top that was missing windows (I kept my original hard top hanging in my workshop for the winter)
Here is my rough drawing:



I cut the back off from the top and began the build. I used the same technics used to build a custom surfboard utilizing a styrofoam core to create the shape:






The shape tapers much like a surfboard:







Successful test fit:




I built alignment blocks so the top easily locks into the right position:


I used 2 rubber latches similar to our YETI cooler latches to hold the top down:


The new top is sleek and looks good with and without the Freedom panels:



I took the jeep out for a full-speed test drive and the top was stable at 90 MPH. The wind flow over it seemed to smooth out and the back-drafting affect was greatly reduced. There was no buffeting or movement of the top. I tested it with the Freedom Panels and without. Here are more views of the finished top:


My final addition to the top included a center rear brake light strip along the back edge of the top.

It has been a year since I have built this top and I am very pleased with it. I get a lot of looks and people are asking me to build one for them. I have actually given this top to a friend who has given me his hard top. I plan to build another for myself with a slightly different shape.