1967 CJ5 Jeep Tops For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Outfitting Your Classic Off-Roader

1967 CJ5 Jeep Tops For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Outfitting Your Classic Off-Roader jeeps.truckstrend.com

The 1967 CJ5 Jeep is more than just a vehicle; it’s an icon, a testament to rugged utility and an enduring symbol of American adventure. For owners and enthusiasts of this classic off-roader, maintaining its authenticity and functionality often involves a meticulous search for the right parts, and few components are as critical or as transformative as the top. Whether you’re restoring a vintage beauty to its former glory, seeking to protect your investment from the elements, or simply looking to enhance your driving comfort, finding the perfect 1967 CJ5 Jeep top for sale is a quest worth undertaking. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about these essential accessories, from types and where to find them, to crucial considerations and installation tips.

The Enduring Legacy of the 1967 CJ5 Jeep

1967 CJ5 Jeep Tops For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Outfitting Your Classic Off-Roader

To truly appreciate the importance of a top for a 1967 CJ5, one must first understand the vehicle itself. The CJ5 (Civilian Jeep) lineage began in 1954, evolving from the military MB and M38 models. By 1967, the CJ5 had matured into a highly capable, compact, and incredibly versatile vehicle. Known for its robust frame, legendary 4×4 capability, and a design that prioritized function over flair, the ’67 CJ5 was a popular choice for farmers, adventurers, and everyday drivers alike. Its open-air design was part of its charm, but for those who needed protection from the sun, rain, or cold, a reliable top was indispensable. Today, the 1967 CJ5 holds a special place in the hearts of classic car enthusiasts, prized for its vintage appeal, simplicity of maintenance, and undeniable character. Securing the right top is paramount to preserving its integrity and maximizing its utility.

Understanding 1967 CJ5 Jeep Top Options

When searching for a top for your 1967 CJ5, you’ll primarily encounter two main categories: soft tops and hard tops, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Soft Tops: Classic Charm and Versatility

Soft tops are arguably the most iconic choice for a vintage Jeep. They embody the original spirit of the open-air vehicle while offering practical protection.

• Description: Typically made from durable canvas or vinyl, soft tops are supported by a metal frame (bows) that attaches to the Jeep’s body. They often feature removable or roll-up windows.
• Pros:
  • Classic Aesthetic: They maintain the traditional Jeep look.
  • Lightweight & Removable: Relatively easy to remove and store, allowing for true open-air driving.
  • Affordability: Generally less expensive than hard tops.
  • Compact Storage: When removed, they can often be folded or rolled for storage.

  

• Cons:
  • Less Security: Offers minimal protection against theft.
  • Less Insulation: Provides limited insulation against extreme temperatures and noise.

  

  • Durability: Materials can degrade over time due to UV exposure and weather, requiring eventual replacement.
  • Noise: Can be noisy at highway speeds.
• Types:
  • Full Soft Top: Encloses the entire cabin, offering maximum protection.
  • Bikini Top (or Safari Top): Covers only the driver and passenger areas, providing sun and light rain protection while keeping the rear open. Ideal for summer cruising or off-roading.

Hard Tops: Robust Protection and Security

Hard tops transform your CJ5 into a more enclosed, secure, and weather-resistant vehicle, akin to an SUV.

• Description: Constructed from fiberglass, steel, or aluminum, hard tops offer rigid protection. They are typically heavier and more permanent than soft tops.
• Pros:
  • Enhanced Security: Provides better protection against theft and vandalism.
  • Superior Insulation: Offers better insulation against cold, heat, and road noise.
  • Durability: Designed for long-term use and can withstand harsher weather conditions.
  • Winter Driving: Makes the CJ5 more comfortable and practical for year-round use.
• Cons:
  • Heavy & Cumbersome: Difficult to remove and store, often requiring multiple people or a hoist.
  • Cost: Generally more expensive, especially original or fully restored units.
  • Less Versatile: Doesn’t offer the quick open-air transformation of a soft top.
  • Aesthetic: Some enthusiasts prefer the traditional soft top look.
• Types:
  • Full Hardtop: Encloses the entire cabin and cargo area.
  • Half Cab: Covers only the driver and passenger area, leaving the rear open, often paired with a pickup bed conversion.

Where to Find 1967 CJ5 Jeep Tops For Sale

The search for a 1967 CJ5 top can be an adventure in itself. Your options range from brand-new aftermarket solutions to rare, original equipment.

New Aftermarket Tops

Several reputable manufacturers specialize in Jeep accessories and offer tops designed to fit early CJ5 models, including the 1967.

• Manufacturers: Brands like Bestop, Smittybilt, and Omix-Ada are well-known for producing high-quality replacement soft tops and some hardtop options (though hardtops are less common as new aftermarket items for such old models).
• Benefits:
  • Brand New Condition: No wear and tear, fresh materials.
  • Warranty: Often come with a manufacturer’s warranty.
  • Modern Materials: Utilize improved fabrics, zippers, and window materials that are more durable and UV resistant than original counterparts.
  • Complete Kits: Usually include all necessary hardware, frames, and instructions for installation.
• Where to Buy: Online retailers specializing in Jeep parts (e.g., Quadratec, Morris 4×4 Center, Summit Racing), direct from manufacturer websites, or through local 4×4 shops.

Used/Original Equipment (OEM) Tops

For the purist or someone on a budget, used and original tops present an exciting, albeit more challenging, prospect.

• Sources:
  • Online Marketplaces: eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, specialized Jeep forums (e.g., Early CJ5.com forums, Jeep-related Facebook groups).
  • Salvage Yards/Junkyards: A long shot, but sometimes a hidden gem can be found.
  • Specialized Vintage Jeep Parts Dealers/Restorers: Companies that deal exclusively in classic Jeep parts might have refurbished or original units.
  • Swap Meets & Car Shows: Excellent places to network and find parts.
• Challenges:
  • Condition Varies Widely: From pristine to heavily damaged.
  • Completeness: Often sold without frames, hardware, or windows.
  • Authenticity: Verify if it’s truly original or a period-correct reproduction.
  • Shipping: Large items can be expensive to ship.
• Tips for Inspection:
  • Soft Tops: Check for rips, tears, brittle windows, rusted zippers, and condition of the fabric. Ensure the frame (bows) is included and not bent or rusted.
  • Hard Tops: Look for cracks in fiberglass, rust on metal components, condition of window seals, and overall structural integrity. Verify if all mounting hardware is present.

Custom Fabricators

For a truly unique or perfectly tailored solution, a custom fabricator can create a soft top to your exact specifications. This is often the most expensive option but ensures a perfect fit and personalized design.

Key Considerations Before Purchasing

Before you click "buy" or hand over cash, take these crucial factors into account:

• Condition: New (aftermarket) offers peace of mind; used requires thorough inspection and potentially more work.
• Completeness: Does the top come with all necessary hardware, bows, windows, and seals? Missing components can be difficult and expensive to source separately.
• Material: Vinyl is common for soft tops (durable, water-resistant); canvas offers a more traditional look but may require more maintenance. Fiberglass for hard tops is durable but can crack if impacted.
• Color & Style: Match your Jeep’s existing color scheme or go for a contrasting look. Consider the aesthetic impact of a full top versus a bikini top.
• Installation Difficulty: Soft tops generally require careful stretching and alignment. Hard tops are heavy and need secure mounting. Are you comfortable with DIY, or will you need professional help?
• Budget: Set a realistic budget, knowing that prices vary significantly based on type, condition, and origin.
• Purpose: Is your CJ5 a daily driver, a weekend off-roader, a show vehicle, or a restoration project? Your intended use will heavily influence your choice of top.

Installation Tips and Maintenance

Once you’ve found your perfect top, proper installation and ongoing maintenance are key to its longevity.

Installation Tips:

• Read Instructions: Whether new aftermarket or an old manual, always follow the manufacturer’s or an expert’s installation guide.
• Gather Tools: Have all necessary wrenches, screwdrivers, and possibly a second person ready, especially for hard tops.
• Warmth for Soft Tops: If installing a new soft top, especially in cooler weather, let the fabric sit in the sun for a few hours or in a warm garage. This makes the material more pliable and easier to stretch for a snug fit.
• Seal Everything: For hard tops, ensure all seams and bolt points are properly sealed to prevent leaks. Weatherstripping is crucial.
• Test Fit: Before final tightening, do a test fit to ensure everything aligns correctly.

Maintenance:

• Cleaning:
  • Soft Tops: Use mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals. Specialized vinyl or fabric cleaners are recommended. Clean windows with a non-abrasive cleaner designed for plastic.
  • Hard Tops: Wash like you would the rest of your vehicle, but pay attention to seals and window areas.
• UV Protection: For soft tops, use UV protectants regularly to prevent fading and cracking, especially if your Jeep is frequently parked outdoors.
• Repairs: Small tears in soft tops can often be patched. For hard tops, fiberglass repair kits can fix minor cracks.
• Storage: When not in use, store soft tops clean and dry, ideally folded neatly in a cool, dry place. Hard tops need a secure, stable place where they won’t be damaged, possibly on a custom stand or hoist.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

• Finding Specific Hardware: Original soft top bows or hardtop mounting brackets can be elusive. Solution: Check specialized vintage Jeep parts dealers, online forums, or consider fabricating replacements if you have the skills. Aftermarket kits often include new hardware.
• Restoring Old Tops: A faded, ripped soft top or a cracked hard top might seem like a lost cause. Solution: Professional upholstery shops can often repair or re-skin soft tops. Fiberglass repair specialists can fix hard tops. This can be cost-effective for rare original units.
• Weather Sealing Issues: Leaks are common with older tops or improper installation. Solution: Replace old weatherstripping, ensure all bolts are tightened, and use marine-grade sealants where necessary.
• Fitment Issues: Not all "CJ5" tops are universally compatible across all years, especially with subtle body changes. Solution: Always verify the specific year and model compatibility with the seller or manufacturer before purchasing. Ask for measurements if buying used.

Estimated Price Table for 1967 CJ5 Jeep Tops For Sale

Please note: These are estimated price ranges and can vary significantly based on brand, condition, completeness, seller, and market demand. Original, pristine units will command premium prices.

Top Type	Condition	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Features/Notes
Full Soft Top	New Aftermarket	$400 – $800+	Vinyl or canvas, includes frame and hardware.
	Used (Good)	$200 – $500	May be faded, minor repairs needed, possibly missing parts.
	Used (Original/Rare)	$500 – $1,500+	Authentic, period-correct, often collectible.
Bikini/Safari Top	New Aftermarket	$100 – $250	Simpler, less material, no side/rear windows.
	Used (Good)	$50 – $150	Great for sun protection.
Full Hard Top	New Aftermarket	$1,500 – $3,000+	Less common for this vintage, might be custom order.
	Used (Good)	$800 – $1,800+	Solid, minor blemishes, may need new seals/paint.
	Used (Needs Work)	$300 – $700	Cracks, missing windows, significant rust/paint issues.
Half Cab Hard Top	New Aftermarket	$1,000 – $2,000+	Often fiberglass, designed for truck-bed conversions.
	Used (Good)	$500 – $1,200	Less common than full hardtops.
Replacement Windows	New (Soft Top)	$50 – $150 (per set)	Clear vinyl replacements.
Replacement Frame/Bows	New/Used	$150 – $400	Essential for soft tops; often sold separately.
Hardware Kits	New Aftermarket	$50 – $200	Snaps, latches, mounting brackets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are new 1967 CJ5 tops still manufactured?
A: Yes, leading aftermarket manufacturers like Bestop and Smittybilt produce soft tops designed to fit early CJ5 models, including the 1967. New hardtops for this specific year are less common as off-the-shelf items but can sometimes be custom-ordered.

Q: Can I use a top from a different year CJ on my 1967 CJ5?
A: While many CJ5 tops from the 1955-1975 era share similar dimensions, there can be subtle differences in body tub mounting points, windshield frames, or roll bar clearance. Always verify compatibility with the seller or manufacturer to ensure a proper fit.

Q: What’s the difference between vinyl and canvas soft tops?
A: Vinyl (often a PVC-coated polyester or cotton) is generally more water-resistant, easier to clean, and less prone to shrinking/stretching. Canvas (often a cotton-based duck fabric) offers a more traditional, rugged look and can be more breathable, but may require more maintenance for waterproofing.

Q: How do I store my soft top when not in use?
A: When removed, clean the soft top thoroughly, ensure it’s completely dry to prevent mildew, and fold it carefully according to manufacturer instructions. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sharp objects.

Q: Is installation difficult for a first-timer?
A: Soft top installation can be a bit challenging due to the need for stretching the fabric and assembling the frame, but it’s generally achievable for a DIY enthusiast with patience and the right tools. Hard top installation is more physically demanding due to weight and often requires at least two people.

Q: How much does an original, used 1967 CJ5 top cost?
A: The cost of an original, used top varies wildly based on its condition and completeness. A well-preserved, complete original soft top with its frame could fetch anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more, while a similar hardtop could be $800 to over $2,000. Units needing significant repair will be cheaper.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect top for your 1967 CJ5 Jeep is a pivotal step in preserving its character and enhancing its usability. Whether you opt for the classic versatility of a soft top or the robust protection of a hard top, the market offers a range of options from brand-new aftermarket solutions to rare, original equipment. By understanding the types available, knowing where to look, considering key factors like condition and completeness, and committing to proper installation and maintenance, you can ensure your vintage CJ5 is ready for any adventure, come rain or shine. Outfitting your beloved 1967 CJ5 with the right top isn’t just about functionality; it’s about honoring its legacy and continuing its journey on the open road or the rugged trail.