Comparison of replacement soft tops?

emkaybee · 03-23-2008, 09:16 PM

I just bought a 99 TJ, and the soft top's rear panel zippers are spent out.

I figure I am going to have to replace the top, and was wondering if people could share their experience with the different options.

**DBLJ** · 03-23-2008, 10:24 PM

Bestop replace a top is the way to go.

jeeptillidie · 03-23-2008, 10:30 PM

Its almost summer. Just do what i did. Throw your crappy old top away and get a safari and worry about it in September.

**TheBoogieman** · 03-24-2008, 06:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bsktbll109

Bestop replace a top is the way to go.

X 2

**abnormal** · 03-24-2008, 06:43 AM

Whatever you do dont get a supertop. That thing makes all kinds of noise. I am going to get a replace-a-top from bestop in the fall. Till then my safari with duster and windjammer will do just fine.

Rob 99TJ · 03-25-2008, 11:58 AM

I have a Jeep OEM black top in excellent I'd sell you. I run my hard top in the winter and usually my safari top in the S/S/F so this top in still in excellent condition. PM me your email and I can send some pics.

djt283 · 03-25-2008, 11:59 AM

Bestop RAT...make sure you get sailcloth. Perfect fit and quiet.

RUBtjICON · 03-27-2008, 02:48 AM

How are the Rugged Ridge tops ?

cbanafato · 07-15-2010, 04:14 PM

what are the best tops for around or under $400? the RATs pretty expensive

Malebolgia · 07-15-2010, 04:49 PM

I bought the Pavement Ends top and it is not "too" bad. I wish I had saved a bit longer and got a besttop but for the money it is not bad. I would say if you can wait a bit longer get the besttop but if not then go with Pavement ends. It will not last near as long but it does the job. The fabric is a little loose and it does flap quite a but the zippers seal great and I have not had a single leak. I am curious how it will do come winter time.

**GeoffatBestop** · 07-15-2010, 05:05 PM

Just to add a bit of explanation, if I may:

The Replace A Top (or RAT) is all new fabric and windows. You re-use the hardware that came with your factory top (same header, same frame, same tailgate bar, same little screws even).

You have two main options with a RAT: regular cloth, or sailcloth. The regular cloth is good, exactly like factory. The Sailcloth is heavier yet, and quieter. We get a lot of positive feedback on the sailcloth RAT, but it does cost more.

The reason you see the comments on going with a RAT over a Supertop is because the factory top hardware is better. The header is easier to use, and the door surrounds are more convenient too. (we make them, but there are reasons we can only sell them to Chrysler).

That said, if you do not have factory hardware that you can reuse, a Supertop is a great option. We've sold thousands and thousands over the years.

**GeoffatBestop** · 07-15-2010, 05:12 PM

Pavement Ends is Bestop's budget brand. We use it to compete with other budget brands out there, and it does very well at that. It looks like a PE Replay (like a Replace A top, but from Pavement Ends) is right about 300 bucks. That's a good deal, I think.

You'll get thinner window glass, less of a warranty, and you can not get replacement parts for it.

A full Flip Top from Pavement Ends is about $480. So definitely cheaper than a Supertop or Sunrider.

With Pavement Ends you do get the same technology and patents that go into Bestop product. If you're looking at the budget priced tops, I think PE is worth a look.

I'd try to go with a Sailcloth RAT first. But it's really easy for me to spend your money, isn't it?

hypnotikrobot · 07-15-2010, 05:19 PM

Another vote for the Sailcloth RAT. It's nice and durable, much thicker than the lesser tops. Mine lasted 4 years before I switched to a Rampage bowless, which I just posted for sale. I'm going to return to using the 4 year old Sailcloth RAT.