Start with Hard top then get Soft?

[JeepViking13]

I really want a new 2 door Soft top Rubicon. I'm most likely going to build and order a 2022 this late in the game. But I did find a new 2021 in the color I want but it comes with the hard top.

I really want the Soft top so I can flip it back on the fly when I'm out and about. I don't feel like wrenching on a hard top before I leave the house and then having it off the entire time while I'm gone especially if it starts to rain.

Best tops are freaking expensive. I definitely don't want to have to spend an additional $2,200. So hopefully I would have to go that route.
If I get the hard top can you later order the Soft top from Jeep? Or do I have to go aftermarket? If so how much would they charge being I didn't get it directly from the factory?

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[CarbonSteel]

I bought mine with hard top only and kept an eye out for a deal on a soft top. They are out there, I snagged a new in the box premium for $500.

Check Craigslist and the like.

 

[JeepViking13]

I bought mine with hard top only and kept an eye out for a deal on a soft top. They are out there, I snagged a new in the box premium for $500.

Check Craigslist and the like.

How much of a PITA was it to install? Do you know how much Jeep charges new if you order one?

 

[mjaga]

Bestop is the manufacturer for OEM soft tops. I think the price is in the same ballpark no matter which way you go.
Going with the hard top first saves you the hassle of having to run electrical and washer fluid lines later if you decide to go soft top from the start (I heard those aren’t supplied on soft tops.
Uninstalling the hard top and installing a soft top is very simple. My recommendation on the way to go for sure.

 

[JeepViking13]

Bestop is the manufacturer for OEM soft tops. I think the price is in the same ballpark no matter which way you go.
Going with the hard top first saves you the hassle of having to run electrical and washer fluid lines later if you decide to go soft top from the start (I heard those aren’t supplied on soft tops.
Uninstalling the hard top and installing a soft top is very simple. My recommendation on the way to go for sure.

Spending that extra $2k on a top that I originally wanted from the start is definitely going to be tough. You definitely bring up good points about the electrical and rear wiper and washer fluids. Plus I guess I could use the hard top in the Winter depending how hard the Soft top comes off and on. The other bad thing is I really don't have anywhere to store the hard top. Don't have a whole lot of garage space left.

 

[CarbonSteel]

How much of a PITA was it to install? Do you know how much Jeep charges new if you order one?

I have not installed it yet, but if you have the hard top it is easier to go to a soft top as opposed to vice-versa. It does not appear to be too difficult after looking at some you tube videos.

 

[Dave928]

I really don't have anywhere to store the hard top. Don't have a whole lot of garage space left.

use a hoist and it will pretty much hang right where it would be if it were on the jeep.

 

[dshark1]

Spending that extra $2k on a top that I originally wanted from the start is definitely going to be tough. You definitely bring up good points about the electrical and rear wiper and washer fluids. Plus I guess I could use the hard top in the Winter depending how hard the Soft top comes off and on. The other bad thing is I really don't have anywhere to store the hard top. Don't have a whole lot of garage space left.

What’s your thoughts on the Besttop Sunrider? Kinda, best of both worlds. I am strongly considering it for my hard top. Although that runs $900 still not peanuts ? lol

 

[Murphydog]

I ordered with a hard top, and found a nearly new soft top for less than $800. Keep an eye on the for sale section and you will find one

 

[Gregj]

The Sunrider is great! 5 seconds to open or close. The initial install of the Soft top is a little involved as you have to assemble the door surrounds, after that it's pretty easy. If you are buying a JL now and have any thought of wanting a Hardtop, buy a Hardtop Jeep and search for a soft top afterward. You don't want to have the wiring for the Hardtop installed afterwards. Or just get an SOT from the start, I have been through all of the above tops and ended up with an SOT.
Gregj

 

[JeepViking13]

What’s your thoughts on the Besttop Sunrider? Kinda, best of both worlds. I am strongly considering it for my hard top. Although that runs $900 still not peanuts ? lol

Don't like it. I want a top that folds all the way back and down to get the full true open air experience for everyone in the vehicle both front and rear passenger.

 

[GATORB8]

You could get the hard top and sell it or trade it on here. Should come out with a little cash on top.

 

[CWOFOR]

Exercise some patience and order it with the soft top and forget the hard top all together. The soft top is just as good in the winter and easier in the summer (JMHO). Also if you think Best top is expensive, try a new one from Mopar.

 

[JeepViking13]

Exercise some patience and order it with the soft top and forget the hard top all together. The soft top is just as good in the winter and easier in the summer (JMHO). Also if you think Best top is expensive, try a new one from Mopar.

Honestly this is the route I'm thinking of taking and ordering a 2022 model. But my patience is running out. 2020 July Bronco reservation holder here and still don't have my rig. Which is why I'm switching over to Jeep. I need a vehicle like now. Hopefully Jeep opens up the 2022 order Banks really freaking soon. I can't wait much longer. But I do want to do it right and get exactly what I want from the start.

 

[Killed by Death]

If there is one on the lot you like snag it now. With Covid creeping back up production will slow even more. I'm still in D status from a June 23rd order. MIGHT be built week of 8/23? You could also sell the hardtop. 2022s will also most likely come with a price increase. Time line I've seen on here is:

2021 Jeep Wrangler FINAL ORDERS DUE: 8/4/21


2022 Jeep Wrangler ORDER BANKS OPEN: 10/5/21


2022 Jeep Wrangler PRODUCTION START: 12/6/21

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