Anyone understand the no drill bestop header installation?

jeepmanalex · 07-01-2009, 08:59 PM

I just got the no drill windshield channel from bestop in order to put a bikini top on my jeep and the thing is just not fitting right, as i tighten the screws it slides back on the windshield until it is almost pointing straight up. The only thing i can think of that is interfering with the channel is the stock weather stripping across the top of the windshield which i was told not to remove, i have a hard top so maybe my weather stripping is different than that of a soft top jeep that already has the channel built in, im just not sure and aggravated at such a seemingly simple project, any help would be much appreciated thanks

J_Ro · 07-01-2009, 09:04 PM

There are two versions of the No-Drill header... One for 97-02 models and another for 03-06 models.

I got a bikini/safari/duster/windjammer set and the no-drill header from a friend who traded in his TJ for a JK. Took me a whole lot of hassle before I started searching and realized that I had a header for the 97-02 and my Jeep is an '04...

I ordered the correct header for my year and it goes on without any hassle.

Bestop's website has install instructions for each type and from those you can get an idea for which version you have.

99Greenmachine · 07-01-2009, 09:05 PM

I was getting ready to say to contact Bestop...they have wonderful customer service

jeepmanalex · 07-01-2009, 09:08 PM

yeah i made sure i had the right header and it is for a 97-02 tj or at least thats what the instructions say that it came with but it just doesnt fit right maybe they boxed the wrong one who knows

JeepFavreau · 07-01-2009, 09:13 PM

I had this problem on my old TJ (2000 Sport). I had someone hold it tight and flush with the windshield while i tightened the bolts. It does slide in towards the vehicle but I never had any leakage or anything. That said, i sold it and got a factory one b/c i hated the whole setup.

**SpeedJeep** · 07-01-2009, 09:27 PM

Mine does the same thing - worthless

jeepmanalex · 07-01-2009, 10:09 PM

So i found out that quadratec's link as to which header i would need sent me to a rugged ridge header instead of the correct bestop header, and from past experience i wouldnt go near rugged ridge with a ten foot pole, so i hope that quadratec will come through for me and get me the right header in a short amount of time, and for those of u who said ure header slides back like that do u have the bestop header?

J_Ro · 07-01-2009, 10:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jeepmanalex

So i found out that quadratec's link as to which header i would need sent me to a rugged ridge header instead of the correct bestop header, and from past experience i wouldnt go near rugged ridge with a ten foot pole, so i hope that quadratec will come through for me and get me the right header in a short amount of time, and for those of u who said ure header slides back like that do u have the bestop header?

I know you are in a different situation, but yes I verified that the header that I had that would "slide back" was a Bestop header and it was their 97-02 no-drill model. Once I switched to the newer style I had no more issues.

I just checked and the model I ended up with (that does not slide back), is in fact made for all TJ years. If you are getting that one, I doubt you will have an issue.

I would make sure you are getting Bestop Part Number 51238. Install instructions: http://www.bestop.com/installation_guides/51238.pdf The key I found between the two different types of headers I had were the J-brackets and the length of the bolts that come with it...

jeepmanalex · 07-02-2009, 01:29 PM

Yeah man i got that one on the way i really appreciate all ure help, it seems like the simplest things take the most time haha thanks again

erickpl · 07-02-2009, 01:43 PM

On my 97, when I attach it, I loosely attach both clamps first. Then while standing in the door, I press down and forward with one hand while I tighten the clamp with the tool in the other. I actually grab the header with my fingers on the back edge and palm on the front part - I pull forward and press down with the palm while tightening the clamp. Repeat the process on the other side.

I had the same problem as you, but this method works just fine.

bigred33 · 07-02-2009, 01:56 PM

There is some movement the first time you put it on and it sets itself. Believe me though, if it's the right one and you have the bolts tight in the latch holes, it aint going anywhere.

GotLime · 07-02-2009, 02:44 PM

On a relasted note, how does the actual top connect to the header? I had a drill in header on my last Jeep and it slid into the header. The no drill doesn't appear to work that way.

I've been so busy with other projects that I haven't really looked at again since the first time I tried it.

Does that make sense? Any help?

**Jerry Bransford** · 07-02-2009, 02:50 PM

Tops designed for no-drill (which I DESPISE!!) headers slip in from the front. The top's hard front edge fits into the slot in front of the no-drill header. I dislike no-drill headers so much that it would almost prevent me from owning a 2003 or newer TJ since they can't use the drill-style header I prefer.

robbuck · 07-02-2009, 02:54 PM

never liked mine, the windshield corners of the top never would lay down right. I never had any problems with the smaller drilled unit-easy on and off and everything fit snug.

GotLime · 07-02-2009, 03:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jerry Bransford

Tops designed for no-drill (which I DESPISE!!) headers slip in from the front. The top's hard front edge fits into the slot in front of the no-drill header. I dislike no-drill headers so much that it would almost prevent me from owning a 2003 or newer TJ since they can't use the drill-style header I prefer.

ooohhhhhhhhhhhhhh.....................