The steps you take, in the order you take them, to re-install the top pieces.

Thanks

Patriot

 

Assuming that the rear portion of the hard top is already on...

Passenger side panel on first, making sure that there's a tight fit against the windshield seal, and that the little metal peg sticking down from the outside edge ends up in its proper hole in the rollbar. Clamp down against the windshield first, then along the side. Now, put on the driver side panel, again ensuring that it's properly positioned, and snug not only against the windshield, but also against the passenger side panel - every time I've done this, it's taken a slight adjustment to get it "perfect" on all angles. Clamp against the windshield first, then against the passenger panel, then against the driver's side. Finally, screw in the hand screws in each panel.

Hope that helps - haven't had a drop in the cabin from a leak yet!

 

My freedom top has never leaked. I purchased my JK in Dec. '06 if that is helpful. I've had the top off and on 3 times now with no issues. I've followed the owners manual instructions each time. It has rained plenty and I wash it regularly. I always check for leak and none so far. Just liucky I guess.

 

Hey all, I have had my 2 dr Rubicon since October. Had the panels off and on several times, even taken the doors off too. The very first time I took the panels off, It leaked the next day. Being an engineering type, I assumed I must have reinstalled the panels incorrectly. So I pulled into a covered garage and disassembled the top panels again. This time I paid special attention to the manner in how I reinstalled the panels. I noticed that it was easy to pinch the rubber gasket in the rear causing a crease which would explain the leak. I also realized that the circular turn bolts only need to be hand tightened, if you over tighten you stand the chance of warping the panels or even worse, cracking them as has been mentioned on this site. Also, it is best to sit the rear of the panel first then to allo wthe front of the panel to seat. Then I latch the forward clasp first, to lock it into place, then I throw the various levers. Last thing I do is tighten the rear hand bolts. Ever since I followe dthis procedure, NO LEAKS! It only takes a minute or so more, but IMO well worth the 60 seconds. I woudl gladly take pictures, but the last layer of snow doesn't really make me want to go topless right now! Mayeb once we get the east coast thaw, I might be talked into a photo step by step commentary.


Tyler

 

Very good instructions! This is exactly the way I reinstall the two halves on my JK. I have NEVER had a leaking top since I purchased on 10-31-06...

 

My fix to the center section cured the middle leak and the dealership replaced the side moldings per the TSB.....no leaks now and I have had my tops off at least 10 times.......
As stated above follow the procedure in the maual...

Marc

2dr Black Sahara

 

I have had mine off almost a dozen times too with no leaks. I follow the owners manual exactly. I can see how you could easily misalign the panels causing a leak. Just take your time and line it up. My build date was nov. 30th.

 

no rain or carwash leaks...wind on the other hand.......lol

 

I have had mine off several times. I just follow the manual as well. Since I had read all the leak concerns, I have just taken a little extra care to make sure it appeared to line up correctly before I tighten them up. I had a born on date of December 6.

 

same way i do it.had them off 20 times or more no leaks.mine was built in oct.