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Best Tool to Remove Hardtop Screws?

NewbJLUOwner

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Hi All
I removed my hardtop for first time. Used the supplied Mopar tool kit to remove screws. It works fine, just slow
Decided to use my screw gun and was much faster
Should I buy a right angle attachment for my Dewalt?
This seems to be best solution in my opinion
Anyone else using something that's better?
Any advice is appreciated
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rcadden

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A right-angle adapter might work well, but I've also been eyeing an electric ratchet - would fit in there pretty easily, I think.

This is the one that I have on my Amazon list:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07X37XMX...olid=1ZXKDVZE4JTQ5&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

I've also seen some handled-screws on Amazon, which would replace the factory bolts, but they have a few drawbacks:
- Have to be done by hand. Biggest issue here.
- Won't be able to store in the factory holes under the cargo panel. Also an annoyance.
 

TimmH

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I just use the kit or my own wrenches and loosen the bolts, the spin them out with my fingers.

Occasionally I will use my drill on a low torque setting to re-install them. Then drive for a day or 2 and re-tighten them after everything has resettled in place.
 
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NewbJLUOwner

NewbJLUOwner

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A right-angle adapter might work well, but I've also been eyeing an electric ratchet - would fit in there pretty easily, I think.

This is the one that I have on my Amazon list:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07X37XMX...olid=1ZXKDVZE4JTQ5&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

I've also seen some handled-screws on Amazon, which would replace the factory bolts, but they have a few drawbacks:
- Have to be done by hand. Biggest issue here.
- Won't be able to store in the factory holes under the cargo panel. Also an annoyance.
Thanks Rcadden 👍
Making a run to Home Depot today, i like the ratchet idea 👍
 

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rcadden

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Thanks Rcadden 👍
Making a run to Home Depot today, i like the ratchet idea 👍
Keep us posted on how it works - I haven't pulled the trigger yet, but if it works as good as I thought it would, I might move it up on the priority list.
 
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NewbJLUOwner

NewbJLUOwner

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Just be careful not to strip them if using a drill/screw gun.
Good advice for sure. Definitely careful, i tighten with screw gun, then hand crank finish. Was looking for something easy-to-use & quicker than the supplied Mopar tool kit
 
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NewbJLUOwner

NewbJLUOwner

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Keep us posted on how it works - I haven't pulled the trigger yet, but if it works as good as I thought it would, I might move it up on the priority list.
It's a good excuse to go to Home Depot. Thanks for the advice on ratchet idea
 

Suffolklou

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I have the t-handle bolts for the six lowest ones. I use an electric screwdriver for the two at the top of the roll bar.
 

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Hi All
I removed my hardtop for first time. Used the supplied Mopar tool kit to remove screws. It works fine, just slow
Decided to use my screw gun and was much faster
Should I buy a right angle attachment for my Dewalt?
This seems to be best solution in my opinion
Anyone else using something that's better?
Any advice is appreciated
Jeep Wrangler JL Best Tool to Remove Hardtop Screws? BFBF00DE-4EE6-4E95-B1B8-E359CC2CDB63
Jeep Wrangler JL Best Tool to Remove Hardtop Screws? E87C76E7-9FC0-46E2-9681-0B413539DDE5
Jeep Wrangler JL Best Tool to Remove Hardtop Screws? 6E63B071-12DC-4F7B-ADE9-4395EC743F66
 

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hiimmike

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Okay the next question... where do you get a torque wrench that isn't $200-$300 that does inch pounds?!?! I'm just hoping my bolts are at the correct specs.
 

Rhinebeck01

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I always had them on my JK's and even found them for my JL. Problem is those t-torx bolts are still time consuming to remove. A pain to remove in my opinion.

With that said, I purchased (other's here have too) purchased a little hand held, battery powered 3/8" ratchet handle to quickly (geeeez, I mean quickly) remove or reinstall the factory torx bolts with. Great little tool to have...

I got this one:
Milwaukee 2457-20 M12 Cordless 3/8" Sub-Compact 35 ft-Lbs 250 RPM Ratchet w/ Variable Speed Trigger

Jeep Wrangler JL Best Tool to Remove Hardtop Screws? ;;;;


If you want those t-torx aftermarket bolts, do be careful which you order because many here have reported that they got t-torx bolts that would not work with the JLU. Some were too long, etc.
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