It is in the place of the '09, but my Sahara Unlimited is an '08.

But it has the holes for the '08 as well, unlike the other '09s on the lot.

Are you with me still??

So basically it looks as if the previous owner or perhaps dealer unknowingly, put the locks in place but in the wrong location.

It works fine (seemingly).. or so I hope it will. I've only owned the Jeep for like 2 days now.

And I can't help but wonder if there is a reason or if the '09 location is a better seal than the '08 or what... I'm afraid to go messing with it if it works, ya know??

Pics.........

This is what a normal '09 looks like... See the hard top lock knob (black) up there in the front by the rear view mirror? That is where this black lock knob is on the '09s from the factory. All of them were like this:






AND THIS IS WHERE IT LOOKS LIKE ON MY '08 4-door.. You can see the screw holes THERE for the '09 location, but it's in another location, perhaps that of where the '08s go... ???




So if you have an '08 (or '07 for that matter) please post up is your black knob in the '09 (1st pic) or in the other location (2nd pic)?

I'm just trying to figure out why I have another set of screw holes where the '09s have knobs, and it looks like it's been used as it has some black smears around it from a knob being turned.

It seems easy enough to move with a Torx bit but I'm afraid to go dorking with it if it ain't broken...

It does latch properly and seems to hold things secure. No wind noise, and no leaks yet (not that it has really rained but it did go through a car wash 2 nights ago)..

 

08 X mine is like the first pic That second pic doesnt look right, it looks like its been broken, then relocated

 

Mine is an '07 unlimited, and it also looks like the first picture

 

the first pic is 07 and early 08

09 had the front latch on the windsheild down strap loop like the second pic

the bottom photo 2nd pic looks like it was a mid production modification was done just as the switch over was taking place.

 

Woah, ok cool, how do you know all of this?

I was thinking the same thing, like DCX (Jeep) changed it at the factory to use a newer design, like perhaps so it doesn't leak or something. Yes, I do have a windshield loop but I figured that was always there, because my old '98 TJ had one there for the soft top main support strap.

So it looks like the new design is using that windshield loop as a brace, for a better seal against the windshield in the middle (vs. just on the sides).

Anyways, thanks all for the good replies, it sounds like this was something that snuck through unbeknownst to all of us... I feel like an Archaeologist and we just unearthed something new and exciting...

Ok maybe not quite like that...

 

Yep top is changed for the 09's to fix the leak problems some had, here is a complete list for the changes for the 09's

- A removable change tray in the center console
- A little cargo net in front of the shifter
- Improved tops
- Redesigned set of freedom panels (front latch moved forward, hooks under the windshield tie-down)
- A redesigned (metal?) headliner for the soft top
-Updated hood latches that solve the hood bounce that some have
-Updated software programming for automatic transmissions
- All previous TSB’s added from the 2007-2008 JK’s
-Rear tow hook is now compatible with the receiver
-New center dome lamp with switchable directional lighting
-Larger sun visor
-Hill Start Assist- Standard on all models
-Trailer Sway Control is now included with the Trailer Tow Group
-Power group now standard on Sahara
-Alarm now standard on Sahara
-Multiple color changes
-Updated ECM for smoother throttle response

 

Sweet, thanks for the info!!

 

How do you know all of this? Do you work for Chrysler?

 

Nope but one of my buddies does.

 

Any info on this? The soundbar dome light on my 09 Rubicon is plain jane.