How to Remove a Jeep Hard Top

There’s no denying that Jeeps are one of the coolest vehicles ever made. A truck that’s great at off-roading, fun to drive, and is essentially a convertible? What more could you possibly want from a vehicle? While you love the practicality of a Jeep, a favorite part of owning and driving these trucks is taking the top off and letting the wind fly around, whether you’re on the freeway or off-roading. But don’t worry, removing the hard top from your Jeep is a lot easier than it looks.

How Much Space Do You Need to Remove a Jeep Hard Top?

You really don’t need much space at all to remove the hard top from a Jeep. You need a few feet on each side of the vehicle, so that you can move around while removing the top. And you need a few feet of space above the Jeep so that you can remove the top without damaging it. Ideally, you also want to be parked on flat ground, rather than on a hill. But as long as you have a little wiggle room around and above the Jeep, you’ll be just fine.

Can You Remove a Jeep Hard Top by Yourself?

It’s definitely possible to remove a Jeep hard top all by yourself, and for many people it’s pretty easy. That said, it’s definitely a lot easier to take off the hard top with an extra set of hands around you. We always recommend having at least two people to remove a Jeep hard top the first few times. Once you’ve gotten used to the process, you can remove the top by yourself if it feels doable.

Tools You Need to Remove a Jeep Hard Top

Other than your hands, you do need a few tools to safely remove a Jeep hard top. The most important tool that you’ll need is a #40 Torx head driver. This head driver is the tool that’s needed to fully detach the hard top from the Jeep itself. You’ll also need a ratchet and a few sockets for tightening and loosening the bolts throughout the removal process. Those sockets can change depending on the model of your Jeep, so check the owner’s manual. In general, you’ll need a 15mm socket, as well as T40 and T50 Torx sockets. Most Jeeps come with the tools needed to remove the top.

How to easily, safely, and quickly remove a Jeep hard top

Now it’s time to actually get to the fun part: removing the hard top from your Jeep! Here’s how to do it easily and safely. It might take a little bit of time the first time you do it, but soon you’ll be able to remove the top from your Jeep in just a few minutes.

Disconnect the Front

We start by removing the front panels from the Jeep if yours isn’t a one-piece. This is essential for removing the hard top, and it’s a really easy process. You’ll want to begin by folding down the sun visors, and then locating the pair of levers and the six L-shaped locks that secure the front panels. Use the tools to carefully unhook the levers and locks, and then you should be able to simply pull the front panels off of the Jeep. If yours is a one-piece, it’s as simple as releasing the pair of locks at the front where it meets the windshield frame.

Detach the rear section

Detaching the rear section of the Jeep is a little bit more complicated than taking off the front panels, but it’s still an easy task. There will be bolts on each corner at the back of the hard top. Use your tools to carefully remove all of those bolts, and make sure that you store them in a safe place so that you don’t lose them. You’ll need them when you put the hard top back on!

Unplug the wiring harness

Depending on the year and model of your Jeep, you may have to unplug the wiring harness. This will be located on the rear driver’s side corner, and you’ll have to pull pretty hard to unplug the harness.

Remove and store

Now you’re ready to take the hard top off fully, and store it safely. All you have to do is carefully transfer the hard top to wherever you’re storing it, and you’re good to get in your Jeep and enjoy the open road! Find a buddy to help you out unless you have a hard top hoist in your garage you can use to lift it off. Many Jeep owners like to use a hard top removal kit to help them get the top off their Jeep, and to safely store the hard top when it’s not in use. If you’re looking to upgrade your Jeep by purchasing such a kit, you can find the perfect one at ExtremeTerrain.