Summer top preferences
JK Super Freak
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,071
Likes: 1
From: Attleboro, MA
I'm a big fan of having both tops. With the soft top, I really like the ability to remove the rear and/or side windows independently. It's noisier than the hard top, and you feel a little more exposed - but to me it generally adds to the whole Jeep experience. When the cold weather comes, it's a nice change to go back to the hard-top and hunker down for the winter.
I actually like the look of clear window soft tops... but that's a personal preference...
The price does not seem too bad. Soft tops prices here in Mass have gone through the roof. Lots on craigslist going for $500-600 for '07s - to $800 or more for newer models. I got mine used for $400 a few years back.
I actually like the look of clear window soft tops... but that's a personal preference...
The price does not seem too bad. Soft tops prices here in Mass have gone through the roof. Lots on craigslist going for $500-600 for '07s - to $800 or more for newer models. I got mine used for $400 a few years back.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 261
Likes: 2
From: Ohio
JK Junkie
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 3,499
Likes: 162
From: brick, nj
Only had the jeep for a year. It's my DD. initially was going to get soft top so I could take down and put back up easier in warm weather. However, test drives told me I liked the reduced wind noise of the hard top for DD. I currently use the Harley to be in the elements. Can't buy everything at once. I will likely be asking for some type of soft top for Father's Day. We get some heavy downpours here in NJ and I don't have a garage. My sons TJ has had some electrical issues due to rain with only safari top on.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 242
Likes: 1
From: Jupiter, Florida
I am also considering buying a Trektop NX to substitute for my factory top. Let us know how you like it after the switch.
JK Newbie
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 98
Likes: 1
From: New York
Only had the jeep for a year. It's my DD. initially was going to get soft top so I could take down and put back up easier in warm weather. However, test drives told me I liked the reduced wind noise of the hard top for DD. I currently use the Harley to be in the elements. Can't buy everything at once. I will likely be asking for some type of soft top for Father's Day. We get some heavy downpours here in NJ and I don't have a garage. My sons TJ has had some electrical issues due to rain with only safari top on.
With my old yj I would swap the top out in early spring, I had the garage space then and could care less about the weather.
With the jk I have the dual top setup, but find I leave the HT on for the same reasons you expressed. Plus, it's not so bad with the panels out and the back window open. I do tend to drive the jeep more so on the hazy, hot and humid day's. Reason being, no shorts and t-shirt for me when I ride. I just cant wrap my head around not wearing full protection, the cager's around here are relentless.
here's to getting bugs in your teeth.
JK Super Freak
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 1,934
Likes: 2
From: Seattle, WA
Originally Posted by warpeg
My JKU wears the factory soft top year round. It does great for any application:
1. If you want protection from the elements (heavy rain, snow, sun, ice, etc.), then keep the top all the way on. It holds heat and AC very well!
2. If you want a quick and easy semi-open-air option, then put it in Sunrider mode. The top just flips back and you don't have to mess with the side plastic windows. You may want to take off or roll up the rear window if you're traveling at highway speed, however.
3. If you want the feel of a bikini top, then leave the top on, take the side windows off, and take off or roll up the back window.
4. If you want full open air, then put the whole top down. Throw a Spiderweb Shade on it if you want some sun protection. They're inexpensive, easy to use, and even fit under your top when not being used.
IMHO, the factory soft top is the most versatile top for a JK. Go get one! Just my $.02.
1. If you want protection from the elements (heavy rain, snow, sun, ice, etc.), then keep the top all the way on. It holds heat and AC very well!
2. If you want a quick and easy semi-open-air option, then put it in Sunrider mode. The top just flips back and you don't have to mess with the side plastic windows. You may want to take off or roll up the rear window if you're traveling at highway speed, however.
3. If you want the feel of a bikini top, then leave the top on, take the side windows off, and take off or roll up the back window.
4. If you want full open air, then put the whole top down. Throw a Spiderweb Shade on it if you want some sun protection. They're inexpensive, easy to use, and even fit under your top when not being used.
IMHO, the factory soft top is the most versatile top for a JK. Go get one! Just my $.02.
Exactly what I do, except for using the hard top during Winter. :-)
I also out a cargo net in the back and side roll-bars. Works perfect. Photos in my album.
Last edited by Sahara_Maverick; Feb 21, 2013 at 09:37 AM.
