How to Properly Remove Your Jeep Hardtop and Store It

There are many modifications you can make to a Jeep Wrangler, and having the option to remove the top is one of the best. Wranglers become the ultimate summer vehicle when you take the top off and, it’s a major reason why the vehicle is as popular as it is. If you own a Wrangler, then you are probably going to want to know how to properly remove your Jeep hardtop and store it.

Must-Have Tools to Remove Your Hardtop

Before we get started on the steps it takes to remove your Jeep Wrangler’s hardtop, you will want to know the different tools you will need. Some essential tools you will need include:

• T40 Torx bit
• Socket wrench
• A friend or a hoist

If you own a newer Jeep Wrangler model, then you might have a hardtop removal kit included with the vehicle. If not, you can easily find these tools at a local hardware store so you can remove the top correctly.

How to Remove Your Jeep Hardtop

The key to removing a Jeep hardtop is to have the tools that we previously mentioned and someone that can help you lift the rear top towards the end if you don’t have a hoist. Removing a hardtop is an easy modification to make, but because a hardtop is one of the most expensive components of your Jeep, it’s important that you are cautious. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly remove your Jeep hardtop and store it.

1. The first step in removing a Jeep Wrangler hardtop all by yourself begins in the interior of the vehicle and removing the front panels. You will notice that there are six latches holding the front panels, with three in the front and three in the back. Pop out the sun visors so you can unclip all the six latches in the front portion of your Wrangler’s interior.
2. Once you are done with all the latches, you can then safely remove the panels at the front of the Jeep. There will be one panel on the driver’s side and another on the passenger’s side.
3. If your Jeep Wrangler is a four-door, then you will need to use your T40 Torx bit and the socket wrench to remove the bolts that are located in the rear panels. There are two T40 Torx bolts on each side of the back. Every Wrangler will have three screws on each side underneath the trunk’s window. Side Note: If you have a newer Jeep Wrangler model, there is a spot in the truck where you can store all eight of the screws, so you know where to find them when you want to put the top back on. This storage space will be underneath the carpet.
4. After you are done removing all the bolts in the rear, you will then have to unplug the electrical and washer fluid harness. These plugs will be located at the back of the hardtop, in the trunk on the driver’s side. First, remove the electrical harness by unlocking the red connector, then pull it out by pressing it downwards. For the washer fluid, simply squeeze the oblong nose and pull this piece downwards as well. This should disconnect both plugs in your Jeep Wrangler if you have them.
5. You are now ready to remove the rear hardtop of your Jeep Wrangler. If you don’t have a hoist, then you will need a friend to help you lift it.
6. To lift the rear top easily with someone else, make sure you have the back doors open on both sides along with the window on the trunk. This will make it easier to get a good grip on the hardtop so you can lift it with someone else’s help. Lift the top over the spare wheel at the rear at first, then rest it on the Jeep and move your front hand underneath the top. Then take your back hand and close the back window.
7. Once you are finished with all of that, place the hardtop down safely either on a dolly or somewhere else where it won’t face any damage.

After following those seven steps, your Jeep Wrangler will sport a brand-new appearance that will allow you to enjoy the fresh air during a cruise or on an off-road adventure.

Best Ways You Can Store Your Jeep Hardtop

As for the storage of your Jeep Wrangler, there are several methods you can utilize to ensure that your top stays safe when you are not using it, yet easily accessible when you are. Here are some of the best ways to store the rear and front panels for your Jeep Wrangler hardtop once you are finished removing them:

Rear Top Storage

• Hoist Cart- The first option you can go with is a hoist cart, which can help you lift your hardtop on your own and allow you to easily store the rear top due to its awkward shape with wheels at the bottom, which acts as a dolly. You can also store so much more than your hardtop by making additions for your doors as well.
• Hoist-A-Top- Another way you can store your hardtop is by using what is known as a hoist-a-top. Your ceiling can be a great place to store your hardtop if you have the vertical space in your garage, and a hoist-a-top can help with that. A hoist-a-top will hang from the ceiling and can hold onto your hardtop with a steel frame, as well as helping with removal.
• Four-Point Lift System- You can also use a four-point lift system to store your hardtop in the ceiling of your garage and use it to lift the top off. This method will require you to attach the lift system to the interior of the hardtop. You can then lift the rear portion of the roof that is connected by a rope that is attached to the garage’s wall.

Front Panels Storage

• Wall storage- While this option won’t help you lift the top off your Jeep, wall storage will give you an easy place in your garage to store the parts. Wall storage is also usually best for the front panels and doors of your Jeep Wrangler, but you will be able to simply hang it there.
• Storage bag- Another way you can safely store your Jeep Wrangler front panels is by investing in a storage bag. Simply slide the panels into the bag and attach it to the back seats of your Jeep or place it somewhere in your garage.

If you are looking to make some more changes to your Wrangler beyond taking the top off, visit AM Off-Road. Transform your vehicle with a variety of different Jeep Wrangler exterior accessories, off-roading gear, and much more available online.