Removing and Storing the JL Soft Top
Removing the JL soft top takes 30–60 minutes with two people and no special tools beyond a T50 Torx. The factory top stores in a bag — treat the plastic windows carefully and you'll reuse them for years.
# Removing and Storing the JL Soft Top
The JL factory soft top comes off in sections: the rear quarter panels and tailgate bar first, then the full header bow and front sections. Two people makes it manageable; one person makes it frustrating and risks creasing the windows.
- T50 Torx socket and ratchet
- Trim panel tool or flathead wrapped in tape (for the plastic retaining clips)
- Two people for full top removal
- Factory top bag (came with the Jeep) or an aftermarket storage bag
Remove rear quarter windows first
- Unlock the zipper channels running along the D-pillars (inside the cargo area). Unzip fully.
- Unsnap the plastic retaining studs along the bottom edge of each quarter window panel — press the center pin, then pull the retainer.
- Lift the quarter panel up and out. Fold carefully — the plastic windows crack at temperature extremes, especially below 40°F.
Remove the tailgate header bar
- Open the tailgate. The rear header bar runs across the top of the tailgate opening. Remove the two T50 Torx bolts (one each side) securing it to the tub.
- Lift the bar up and off. Set it aside — it does not go in the top bag.
Remove the top bow assembly
- Standing inside the Jeep, locate the four latches securing the header bow to the windshield frame. Flip each latch lever up and forward to release.
- With your second person at the rear, lift the header bow up and toward the rear of the Jeep. The soft top folds back over itself — do not fight it if it binds; check that all zipper channels are fully open.
- The folded top can stay folded over the rear seats (partial topless) or be fully removed and bagged.
Full removal
- The top attaches at the rear tub rail with a series of hook-and-loop strips and plastic channel retainers. Work from the rear corners forward, releasing each attachment point.
- Fold the top as the factory bag specifies — it matters for keeping the windows crease-free. Store in a cool, dry location out of direct sun.
- Cold weather: Soft top plastic yellows and cracks if forced when cold. Warm the top with a heat gun on low or leave the Jeep in the sun for 20 minutes before removal below 50°F.
- Zipper lubrication: Dry zippers tear. Apply a zipper lubricant (not WD-40) to all zipper channels twice a year.
- Window storage: Never fold the rear window into itself under pressure. Lay it flat or roll it loosely.
- The retaining clips: JL clips are friction-fit. They will feel like they're breaking when they're not — use a trim tool, not a screwdriver, to avoid cracking the plastic.
- Factory replacement soft top (if yours is worn): $400–$900 from the Jeep dealer or Bestop
- Aftermarket replacement: Bestop SuperTop NX (~$500), Smittybilt Standard Top (~$350)
- Zipper lubricant: $8–$12 (Bestop Zip Care or 303 Fabric Guard)
- Storage bag (if factory bag is lost): $40–$70 aftermarket
The factory top holds up well if stored properly. Aftermarket windows (Bestop, Mopar tinted) run $200–$400 and are worth the upgrade if your factory windows have yellowed beyond cleaning.
Tools required
- T50 Torx socket
- trim panel tool
- two-person crew for full removal
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Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. How we source guides. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.