Supporting Hard Top - Hoist

[KraftyBob]

Is it ok to support the hard top from the bottom (as shown in the pic) vs out the back window like a lot of the hoist systems show? I don't like the idea of the strap pressing on the window seal so I thought about this instead. I've seen some guys use pool noodles to protect the rubber seal, but it should be easy enough to slightly lift the top to get the back strap underneath.

I only take the top off for short periods (e.g. weekends, etc.) so it will not be stored that way over the summer. Just want to make sure that holding the top like this will not warp it even for the short periods of time that it will be hanging.

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[Grayhound]

Is it ok to support the hard top from the bottom (as shown in the pic) vs out the back window like a lot of the hoist systems show? I don't like the idea of the strap pressing on the window seal so I thought about this instead. I've seen some guys use pool noodles to protect the rubber seal, but it should be easy enough to slightly lift the top to get the back strap underneath.

I only take the top off for short periods (e.g. weekends, etc.) so it will not be stored that way over the summer. Just want to make sure that holding the top like this will not warp it even for the short periods of time that it will be hanging.

You should be fine. Holding the top from down low can be risky if your strap slips.

As long as you keep that in mind you'll be fine. The top should be supported so it doesn't spread apart. Meaning I would use a loop to cradle the top instead of using a straight line strap from garage to corner of the top

 

[tk1700]

That should be fine. To make it easier check out these brackets:
https://www.extremeterrain.com/tops...e5ec1794d9c2e3bd9a1&gclsrc=3p.ds&gad_source=7

They attach under the hinges for the rear window. Super easy to attach a hook to.

 

[Grayhound]

Agreed, this is what I have in place. Makes hoisting the top a breeze

 

[KraftyBob]

That should be fine. To make it easier check out these brackets:
https://www.extremeterrain.com/topsy-jeep-wrangler-hinge-hoist-brackets-only-hh-jlbo.html?utm_content=XTTops-Accessories|Topsy&T5_Var4=J165917-JL&intl=0&utm_campaign=XTW+Wrangler+Vehicle+Medium+LTVMiddle&dialogtech=ppc&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=shopping&T5_Var2=shopping&msclkid=66c1259135f11e5ec1794d9c2e3bd9a1&utm_term=4577885386226961&gclid=66c1259135f11e5ec1794d9c2e3bd9a1&gclsrc=3p.ds&gad_source=7

They attach under the hinges for the rear window. Super easy to attach a hook to.

I’ll check those out. Thanks.

 

[CRZYCDN]

I created a 2x4 to span the back to keep it from spreading and allowed me to put an eye bolt to attach the straps to.

 

[CRZYCDN]

Here are a couple pics.

 

[KraftyBob]

I created a 2x4 to span the back to keep it from spreading and allowed me to put an eye bolt to attach the straps to.

I like that idea - having the top sit on the 2x4's. Hmmmm...

 

[Wapiti]

+1 for both the Topsy brackets and 2x4 supports. I pick my hard top off the Jeep using a Harbor Freight electric hoist and a jig made out of channel strut I built way back in 08 for my first JK. In my current garage, after lifting the top I slide it to the side via barn door track and lower it onto 2x4s. Here's a photo of how I use the jig with the Topsy brackets:

...that's just threaded rod inserted in the jig and some bolt snaps. You can see how I lower the top onto 2x4 in this shot:

...it hurt my soul a bit to see these photos; I've since traded in that '19 for a '24 JLURX4xE in Earl and while I like everything about the new Jeep, I would have added one of my kidneys to the deal if it meant keeping the color. Mojito is just the best.

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