I just got this net and didnt know that you had to completely remove the soft top from the jeep to put it on. I thought you could install it with the top down and go over it. Has any one tried to leave the top on and install the net over it.

 

I had one and sold it after the first summer. You can put in on with the soft top on, but the soft top must be down. There is no way to leave on the cargo net and put your soft top up.
Safari straps, aspen & Dirty Dog all sell systems that can be left on and allow the soft top to function.

 

Was it a pain to put on over the top when it was down and did it cause any damage or wear to either that you noticed putting it on that way.

 

I'm using Raingler netting and a Trektop NX if it helps or matters.

 

No, it wasn't a pain at all, just not practical. I have a 2 door & with the net with the soft top still on but down, getting the dogs in was a pain. Had to let them in through the front, jumping all over the front seats. Not so much fun after they had been running through the mud.
It's do-able, but makes accessibility to the cargo area difficult.