Just an FYI for all those trektopers out there- I was having a little difficulty with the header knobs. Anyone that has a trektop probably knows what I'm talking about. I could get them on but it felt like a matter of time until they stripped threads. Couldnt understand why they designed this when almost all the other Bestop header attachments were the clamp style. I called Bestop, they were nice as can be...quality folks. I asked if they could send me a different header attachment, and they did free of charge. In fact, she said that the new treks would soon come with that style.

These clamp attachments come from part number 51243, which is there replacement header. You can check it out on bestops website. They sent me everything less the actual header piece, which includes the clamps, bases, and hardware. Got it today, installed it in about ten minutes, works like a charm.

 

Thanks for the heads up. I think I have that same header that came with my bikini top.

 

Thanks for that. I ordered mine today and it will be in Monday. I'll see what it has when it arrives.

 

Mine is supposed to ship out tomorrow, so let's see.

 

This sounds great. I called Bestop and they are sending me the clamp hardware, however, the guy I talked to, Adam, claimed that the header knob design IS the NEW design and is replacing the clamp design on ALL there headers. I asked him why and he said that the header knob design is supposed to have a better and more secure fit. My question, to the OP or anyone using the clamp design on the trektop, is how snug is the header using the clamp design as opposed to the header knob design? Is there more or less wind noise, does it leak, any pics, etc...? Finally,who at Bestop told you the clamp design is what will be used moving forward for the trektop since my guy, Adam, said the opposite? He wanted to know.

Thanks

 

Any pics of the problem/solution ? I'm new to this Trekktop thing and I'm still trying to figure out how they work compared to the OEM tops

 

One more update, talked to Bestop again and they actually remembered the OP's request for the clamp design but think it was a misunderstanding around it being used for future trektops. They still claim that the header knob is the latest design for the header, but did mention that if the clamp style works better for us that we should let them know as to improve there product. He said that part of the reason for the switch was that people had a hard time putting together the clamp hardware and the header knob was less confusing. Also, I mentioned to them that the edges of my door weatherstripping got pinched, and partially split between the door surround joint weld and the door. They said they would send new surrounds under warranty, but I am curious if anyone has this issue or if its just me. The split is very small and just on the edges of the weatherstripping at the corner of the door. Finally, let me say that Bestop have some of the best customer reps I have ever worked with. Very professional and helpful.

 

The clamp style is tight and dry. Wind noise is relative- they are both loud. I dont see how installing that clamp hardware could give anyone trouble, but thats just me. Took about 10 minutes. Maybe I misunderstood, but the nice lady at Bestop seemed to think they were going away from the knobs...guess not. For those of you wondering, look on Bestops websight and download the pdf instructions for the bestop installation. That shows the knob design. To compare, download the pdf instructions for the replacement header (part # in original post). That shows the clamp style. I would post pics, but they wont be any clearer than those pdfs.
I can see where the knob design would in theory be tighter b/c you tork it down. But, the clamp is air tight and water tight as well. Been raining for five days straight in KY. - no drips. Tight is tight, right?
My only beaf was that my wife was having a hard time getting the knobs to work...and we all know we have to keep mama happy.

As a sidebar- I did realized when I had it apart the other day that I had the front door surrounds on the wrong door, which made the knob design even harder. It sorta fits either way, so its easily reversed. Make sure both bars line up with the rear door surrounds.

 

Good info! Keep it coming!

We will make the Trektop work