The OEM Soft only requires the remove of some plastic covers and 6 bolts to undo. But is quite heavy. It can be removed by one person, but requires some strength and balance to haul it down from standing in the cargo area. Not for everyone.My questions all along, regarding the Trektop vs the OEM softy, is this;
How hard is it to transition between a hard top and a soft top, and which is easiest between the two currently available options?
The Wrangler JKU Trektop NX that I had on my 2017 was super easy to remove completely. I had it down to about 10 minutes and it required tools whatsoever. Any brackets that required tools to remove could stay on the vehicle and the hard top would slide over without interference.
I understand the vehicles are completely different, but I'm looking for closest equivalent. I ordered with the MIC top, but I hope to be able to seasonally switch between that and a soft top. The fewer people and wrenches I have to involve, the better.
I suspect the Bestop will be physically easier to remove once all bundled up in the open position. But, it will also require the removal of several plates and brackets. I'm guessing an hour, but haven't tried it.
Yeah I can't claim it is much quieter, but not much louder either. Hard to tell. I do suspect the arched contour of the Bestop creates some turbulence... I always hear some wind noise right behind my head.EXACTLY!!!
It is sooo much easier then the “propping the hood open” version of the factory soft top! I’m not so sure mine is as quiet as the factory, but so much more user friendly and aesthetically appealing - to me anyway...
As far as the OP topic of installing, I suggested Bestop strengthen their bottom brackets for the side windows, or at least instruct owners to install the side windows from front to rear on the first (very tight) install.
I went from rear to front on one side, and the tension from the un-stretched window tweaked the lower bar up 1/4“. The plastic window bracket at the front of the side windows is much sturdier and will take all that tension easily.
Note: this was just the first time. After one warm day, that excess tension disappeared. And, Bestop sent me a new bar, despite me telling them I could take care if it myself.
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