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Stock JK Tech Bulletin board forum regarding issues with OE (original equipment) components of the Jeep JK Wrangler (Rubicon, Sahara, Unlimited and X) such as factory suspension parts, engine, transmission, body parts, interior fixtures and the on-board computer.

Looking to add a hardtop.

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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 05:47 AM
  #1  
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Default Looking to add a hardtop.

Hello all, Just bought a 07 Sahara JK, and lovin it. Of course it has its issues that I expected when buying a jeep, but overall it's such a fun vehicle and a great community. I was really surprised how well it actually drives, not what I expected from a wrangler. Anyway I was looking to add the 3 piece freedom hardtop, and am looking for some suggestions. I see them around the web (quadratec, etc.). I checked with the local dealer to see if I could avoid the shipping charge and get a pro instal but they claim they can't order the complete top. What’s up with that? Anyone out there have a dealer install one aftermarket and recommend it? I’m just fishing for suggestions, thanks and glad to be a part of the Jeep community.
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 05:58 AM
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I would start on the For Sale section here. If that is not successful then I would look on Graig's List (I've got some great Jeep bargains there recently.) If neither of those options work, then I would start calling dealerships in order from closest to furthest and stop when you get to the point that you wouldn't drive to pick it up.
Your best option is to get one second hand in good shape, brand new is pretty expensive. Why didn't you get a Jeep with dual tops?
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 06:09 AM
  #3  
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I have been shopping for a used jeep for a few months here in Corpus Christi, without much luck. Most used jks with hardtops were out of my budget and the new ones I couldnt even consider, just seem way overpriced in this area. I found this jeep on a used ford lot that was well taken care of just lacked the hard top i wanted. Talked the dealer down $3K for not having the hard top and feel I got a decent deal. The Clist here blows, and the next closest dealer is about a 3hr drive. I think i can get one shipped from Quadratec for about $2400, but would love to find a used one close by. Guess I will just keep an eye out. Thanks for the response.
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 06:23 AM
  #4  
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i believe you can find one in dallas or houston and you can drive there put it on for half of that price. craigslist and this sight.
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 06:24 AM
  #5  
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I figured there was a reason. Which top from Quadratec is it? They sell a hard top with freedom panels and one without.

Have you called any wrecker yards?
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 06:50 AM
  #6  
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Originally Posted by jazper11
Hello all, Just bought a 07 Sahara JK, and lovin it. Of course it has its issues that I expected when buying a jeep, but overall it's such a fun vehicle and a great community. I was really surprised how well it actually drives, not what I expected from a wrangler. Anyway I was looking to add the 3 piece freedom hardtop, and am looking for some suggestions. I see them around the web (quadratec, etc.). I checked with the local dealer to see if I could avoid the shipping charge and get a pro instal but they claim they can't order the complete top. What’s up with that? Anyone out there have a dealer install one aftermarket and recommend it? I’m just fishing for suggestions, thanks and glad to be a part of the Jeep community.
When I bought my Jeep (with soft top) in January the dealer indicated he could get me a hard top later if I decide I want one but it is more expensive buying it separate from a vehicle. Ask your dealer parts department about ordering it. If they don't have an assembly they can order, price the three pieces.
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 06:55 AM
  #7  
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I just spoke to a dealer in San Antonio and he told me that because of the the change in design for 09+ that they are not making the 07-08 freedom hardtop and couldnt help. The wrecker yard is a good idea, but might feel better buying new due to the history of leaky seals on the 07-08 tops. Thanks again everyone, i really appriciate the input.
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 07:50 AM
  #8  
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I just bought a hard top for my 07 sahara. I found it on Craigslist. Do some searches and it also pulls up surrounding areas if there are limited hits.

Some things to consider, the guy I bought the top from had the hardware but not the retaining clips. My vehicle didn't come with them since it was a dual top vehicle. Also as I understand it, only an 08 and 07 hardtop are compatible with the 07s. 09 and 10 hardtops won't fit an 07.

And for what its worth, I LOVE the hard top.
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 08:01 AM
  #9  
spinlock's Avatar
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You are going to get the best deal by far if you can find a JK owner that is selling his hard top, but I suspect the number of tops for sale is dwindling as the winter approaches. What seemed like a reasonable idea in August may not be looking so *hot* now.

Otherwise several sponsors on this forum offers the tops including:

Quadratec as mentioned.
Wyckoff Chrysler

I may have missed others.

BTW, i have gotten 3 different answers from 3 different dealers on the existence or availability of the same part. So if you want to work with dealers try several.
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Old Oct 28, 2009 | 08:05 AM
  #10  
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Dealer ordered and installed the hard top in my old 07 2dr. I have a feeling the line about not making tops for 07-08 years is complete BS along with the can't order complete top line which I know is complete BS.

You will need a wiring harness kit in addition to the top. It replaces the stalk on the column and the heater controls. You will also have to take it to the dealer to flash the computer to recognize the new gear.

One thing to think about if you have a 2dr. They only make one size wiring harness and it's for the 4dr. The after the fact install in a 2dr looks really bad because of this. Especially if you removed the carpet. They also don't include the tethered stopper with the kit. You have to get that on your own.

I cleaned it up after these pics by sectioning the cables but that is what you will get from a 5 star dealer.







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