Reattaching the Soft Top Windows

[ArcadeTracks]

I had a soft top JL Sport for a few days. Those days were like 12°F, but I still opened the sunrider for a ride. The side/back windows stayed attached, though. There was a "wintery mix" (snow, rain, icy rain) most of the time I had it, and I was pretty sure I'd get the windows off the Jeep, and not be able to reattach them.
I used to have a Geo Tracker (Don't hate. I loved that vehicle!) with Velcro, zippers, tubular channels, and a few metal snaps. I'm sure AF going to be going topless + safari mode with my Rubicon. I know I'll get used to the process. And I've also been watching videos. ? I have no fear of actually removing the windows. But, my question:
How long is the "learning curve" for replacing the three rear windows on a (2-Door) soft top JL?
I figured out the Tracker without the help of YouTube or an in-person person, but I'm currently unreasonably nervous. I don't know why. Maybe because I didn't try it with the Sport, or maybe because I'm a lot older than I was when I had the Tracker. (Wouldn't it be weird if I was younger now?) I also got caught in the rain with the canvas off the Tracker a few times, but those were mostly TERRIFIC memories.

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[tkelly11]

I would say it only takes a couple of times of reattaching them to "get it". You get used to the order of sliding the side windows onto the rail at the top then re-joining the rear pillar to the roof and body, then work your way round the bottom and the side that runs next to the door. Once both rears are in, then putting the back window in.

I now have it down to a 3-5 min job putting it all back together.

 

[flyer92]

Agree...it's pretty simple after doing it 2-3 times. Plus, you can follow the window installation video on your Jeep app. I'd recommend watching that at least once before removing/installing your windows.

 

[tkelly11]

Also make sure to get the Twill option, worth the little bit more.

 

[ArcadeTracks]

Also make sure to get the Twill option, worth the little bit more.

Already ordered without it ? but I had several tops for the aforementioned Tracker, so it wouldn't be shocking if I do the same with my Wrangler.

 

[Heimkehr]

@ArcadeTracks
The side windows have stiff vertical uprights that serve an important retention function when used in conjunction with the rear window panel. Be sure that the tabs on both ends of the uprights are properly seated into the corresponding slots on the body (bottom tab) and soft top (top tab) when buttoning everything up.

Also, note the likely presence of a rectangular label on the soft top's folding framework. It has a graphic which proscribes driving the vehicle with the top folded back in the Sunrider position when the side/rear windows are concurrently removed. Some will say doing so is OK, so proceed as you see fit here.

 

[TheNewGuy]

Good luck getting those windows back in below 60°

 

[jollycj]

After doing it a few times only take about 5 minutes for me. I'm a first time JL owner and was concerned but have found it to pretty easy. I have Soft Top 2dr Willys.

 

[flyer92]

@ArcadeTracks
Also, note the likely presence of a rectangular label on the soft top's folding framework. It has a graphic which proscribes driving the vehicle with the top folded back in the Sunrider position when the side/rear windows are concurrently removed. Some will say doing so is OK, so proceed as you see fit here.

That's super interesting. I've never seen this graphic and if I understand correctly, suggests that driving in "safari mode" (no side/rear windows and top fully raised and latched) is not recommended. I've seen no prohibition about this anywhere, and it is a pretty common configuration. I have been driving this way for two years with no issue. In addition, both the manual and associated videos state that the side/rear windows can remain installed with the top folded back in the Sunrider position as well. Perhaps I'm misunderstanding, so could you please advise on where this label is located?

 

[flyer92]

Also make sure to get the Twill option, worth the little bit more.

Agree that the twill is a heavier material, but I've found the vinyl to be much easier to clean and protect, which is critical in dry/sunny climates with high UV. Most twill protectants just sink into the fabric and are very difficult to apply evenly across the entire surface. Even worse, they tend to dry out the twill over time, while a properly protected vinyl top remains supple and colorfast. The vinyl top on my CJ-5 lasted over 15 years, while the twill top on my brother's Wrangler looked terrible and became brittle after just 4 years. As always....to each his/her own, but just wanted to advise on this observation. YMMV and happy Jeepin'!

 

[ArcadeTracks]

Good luck getting those windows back in below 60°

True. I guess it was the right call not to attempt it with the Sport. (Such a brief meeting, but I still miss it!)

 

[Heimkehr]

I've never seen this graphic and if I understand correctly, suggests that driving in "safari mode" (no side/rear windows and top fully raised and latched) is not recommended. I've seen no prohibition about this anywhere, and it is a pretty common configuration. In addition, both the manual and associated videos state that the side/rear windows can remain installed with the top folded back in the Sunrider position as well.

Perhaps I'm misunderstanding, so could you please advise on where this label is located?

Here's the factory label that is attached to the soft top's folding hardware. There's one on each side of the vehicle.

Note that Safari Mode is fine so long as the forward portion of the top isn't also folded back.

Full image:

The relevant bit:

 

[Mocopo]

Here's the factory label that is attached to the soft top's folding hardware. There's one on each side of the vehicle.

Note that Safari Mode is fine so long as the forward portion of the top isn't also folded back.

Full image:

The relevant bit:

I see your argument, but that's not how I took that graphic a all. It's instructions for how to put the top back, not recommendations on driving configurations. That graphic, to me, is saying you can't push the top all the way back while the back is locked upright, but instead you have to use the rear latch under the top and then make sure to lock it once down.

Maybe I'm wrong.... but that's how I read it.

EDIT: Found this in the owners manual. First note says it's ok.

 

[Heimkehr]

I see your argument, but that's not how I took that graphic a all. It's instructions for how to put the top back, not recommendations on driving configurations. That graphic, to me, is saying you can't push the top all the way back while the back is locked upright, but instead you have to use the rear latch under the top and then make sure to lock it once down.

That was also my initial perception when I noticed the label during my pre-delivery inspection. I mentioned it to my salesman, who is also a Wrangler owner. He clarified that the vehicle should not be driven with the soft top in a joint Sunrider/Safari mode, suggesting that the effects of windblast on an unlatched/unsupported soft top could be problematic.

I know there are owners who will claim that having the soft top configured in that hybrid position will cause no harm. Perhaps they're correct. Or not. I'm just passing on the intel for general consideration.

 

[ArcadeTracks]

Here's the factory label that is attached to the soft top's folding hardware. There's one on each side of the vehicle.

Note that Safari Mode is fine so long as the forward portion of the top isn't also folded back.

Full image:

The relevant bit:

I think it's saying don't move it into Sunrider position and then move the whole roof into the retracted position. So, you skip the Sunrider step if you are going full topless.
I've watched a bunch of videos showing Sunrider position then roof "removal" (completely down,) but then I saw one video where the guy just unhooked the front latches and rear lock(s,) then moved the whole thing into the retracted position in one smooth movement. IMHO, this graphic is saying the second guy is doing it "correctly."

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