MIC Hardtop, Replace and paint?

[straycatboat]

Hi all, read a buch on the forum… and thank you all that contributed their pain/humor to this serious issue, but I have doubts on the subject, apologies for ruffling any wounded feathers.

It looks like I have the dreadful cracks on my hardtop, it has to be said, my truck sits under a nice roof to protect it from the weather, but i’ve not reach 2000Km on it yet *got it new on July, end of 2023 build* and I can see clear cracks on the sides, one code seems to be more problematic *area aft of the side window*. Today I looked at the top, and I can see what looks like bubbling up. I have an appointment with the dealer next week and I have the following question:

1. How is the replacement holding up once changed? ( Provided this is part of the warranty )
2. Those that have painted theirs, what procedures did you use? ( If I go to a shop, I would need to be very precise on the ask.)
3. Those that have painted their tops, any long term feedback on how they have held up? In other, does the paint improve the permeability of the tops?

I’m concerned that painting the top would not only invalidate warranty, but also expose it to more possible cracking?

The type of cracking looks like it’s a manufacturing process contamination, similar to any change in moisture/temperature in any composite build I have seen ( lot’s of airplane and boat composite build experience), where moisture is either trapped, or getting into the MIC cells, temp change or moisture change *expansion/contraction* type defects.

We have a harsh weather where I live, dry summers with >40C days, and wet winters with < -10C… Thus, very concerned with this problem.

Appreciate the feedback. TIA!!!

How about a wrap for the top, anyone have experience with this?

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[Mjasi3]

How about a wrap for the top, anyone have experience with this?

that should be no problem as its just a plastic film.

 

[Bronc-ES]

that should be no problem as its just a plastic film.

Just how exactly is that going to stick to the MIC finish? it is an uneven surface… If there is a material out there been used to wrap the MIC tops, I would love to hear about it. Or are you suggesting painting the wrapping?

 

[l88m22vette]

I feel like the ACTUAL fix is taking the clam off, then masking, sanding, and putting a few layers of fiberglass or another composite weave. A good material with proper resin would strengthen it, prevent cracks, and let you paint it without issue. I feel like just doing the sides would be fine.

I'd really like a mod top, but maybe I'll mess with mine after warranty.

 

[lwilliams34]

I just hope the Armadillo tops are around when mine finally kicks the bucket. Strangely enough, except for the one failed area where the locating stud was, my top is actually holding up well. I also have a bestop in the garage collecting dust for the occasion when my hardtop's cardboard inevitably fails.

Looking at the Armadillo for a futuristic upgrade....

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[BudgetBronco]

Just how exactly is that going to stick to the MIC finish? it is an uneven surface… If there is a material out there been used to wrap the MIC tops, I would love to hear about it. Or are you suggesting painting the wrapping?

I used 3M 2080 and it works well, should hold up for 1-2 years before it will start to bubble and peel.

Here is a link to a video

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