Soft Top Hinges Collapsed at Install (?)

[GertTreks]

I have installed and removed my softtop close to a dozen times in 3 years w/o issue. After placing the top onto the tailgate this week, I realized the hinges were “collapsed” and I could not insert the extended allen-head bolts into the roll bar plates. The molded plastic guide above the bolt should be parallel to ground but mine are nearly perpendicular For both hinges.
The locks do not engage on either one and although I can manipulate the hinges to the proper position, it does not reset (locked or unlocked). Not sure forcing is a good idea or if it would work. See picture where the two arms are collapsed but hinge should be positioned so they are further apart. I have no idea how I did this. Are the hinges toast? Any help would be appreciated.

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[jaardappel]

So the allen-head bolt, which slides into the Roll-Bar plate is flush to the metal housing? I just put mine back on the Jeep yesterday, so I think I know what you are talking about. The picture (only photo...did you mean to post more?) above looks like the right-side hinge correct?

 

[GertTreks]

That is the right hinge. The bolt is extended fine. The pillars (poles) are slid into the opposite side of the slot on the hinge so that when I lay the hinge on top of the bolt, the plastic piece above the bolt is nearly at a 45 degree angle facing the ground rather than parallel. The hinge could be forced to the correct angle but will not hold there (regardless if in the locked or unlocked position). Hope this makes sense.
Thanks for responding.

 

[au176]

That is the right hinge. The bolt is extended fine. The pillars (poles) are slid into the opposite side of the slot on the hinge so that when I lay the hinge on top of the bolt, the plastic piece above the bolt is nearly at a 45 degree angle facing the ground rather than parallel. The hinge could be forced to the correct angle but will not hold there (regardless if in the locked or unlocked position). Hope this makes sense.
Thanks for responding.

Did you ever get an answer to this? It sounds like what happened to me. I took my ST off the Jeep without putting straps around the top or locking the mounts. I know- STUPID me! I didn't have time to mess with it. I just put the hard top on, and will try to deal with it in the spring.

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