Straps on the Mopar soft top
JK Newbie
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 94
Likes: 0
From: Bear, Delaware
Like He Said...
Yup...they're there to help pull the back bow up when you put up the top...mine lasted a total of putting the top back up twice...I did replace the rivets with flat head screws and washers, and they're still holding after 2 years. Also put a little black silicon rubber to strengthen the fabric.
JK Freak
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 766
Likes: 3
From: Fort Benning, GA
I believe they are called 'Check Straps' and their function is 2 fold:
1) as mentioned they help pull the back end up when raising the soft top to keep the stress and weight off the top itself. This is particularly handy if you, like me, roll the back window up (instead of remove) and put the top down since this adds a lot more weight to lift.
2) you'll notice the check straps also act as a barrier between the frame hardware and the top itself, this helps reduce wear on the the inside of the top over time since it is constantly vibrating against the frame (the straps) with the windows down.
Personally, I'd keep them in good repair. Should be a warranty item until you expire out.
I bought my Jeep in July 09, and had the top down every chance I got here in Va Beach. They have held up for me.
1) as mentioned they help pull the back end up when raising the soft top to keep the stress and weight off the top itself. This is particularly handy if you, like me, roll the back window up (instead of remove) and put the top down since this adds a lot more weight to lift.
2) you'll notice the check straps also act as a barrier between the frame hardware and the top itself, this helps reduce wear on the the inside of the top over time since it is constantly vibrating against the frame (the straps) with the windows down.
Personally, I'd keep them in good repair. Should be a warranty item until you expire out.
I bought my Jeep in July 09, and had the top down every chance I got here in Va Beach. They have held up for me.
JK Freak
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 766
Likes: 3
From: Fort Benning, GA
Are you referring to the elastic straps with the snap or the velcro straps? The elastic straps snap to the soft top frame above the rear window. They can be used to hold your zip out window if rolled up. I have also found when the top is down, you can stretch them around and hook them to the front window mounts, it keeps them from rattling. The velcro straps help secure the arms to the body on either side when folded down. There is an oblong hole on both sides that the strap goes through.
I hope that all makes sense without pics...its cold and rainy today, so the top is not coming down...
I hope that all makes sense without pics...its cold and rainy today, so the top is not coming down...
I use them to hold the back window rolled up in place and then roll up the sails a bit offset and tuck them in with the rear window roll strap as well.
I guess you can't do both...
The latch rattles bug me more in the sunrider position. they're always chattering away on the highway.