1999 Jeep Wrangler Used Hardtop For Sale: Your Definitive Guide to an Essential Upgrade

1999 Jeep Wrangler Used Hardtop For Sale: Your Definitive Guide to an Essential Upgrade jeeps.truckstrend.com

The 1999 Jeep Wrangler, part of the iconic TJ generation (1997-2006), holds a special place in the hearts of off-road enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. Known for its rugged simplicity, legendary go-anywhere capability, and classic styling, the TJ Wrangler offers an authentic driving experience that many modern vehicles simply can’t replicate. While many TJs were sold with soft tops for that quintessential open-air Jeep feel, the hardtop option provides unparalleled benefits in terms of security, weather protection, and noise reduction. For owners of a 1999 Jeep Wrangler looking to enhance their vehicle’s versatility, or for those restoring a classic TJ, finding a used hardtop for sale is often a top priority. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about acquiring, installing, and maintaining a used hardtop for your beloved 1999 Jeep Wrangler.

Why the 1999 Jeep Wrangler (TJ) Remains a Legend

1999 Jeep Wrangler Used Hardtop For Sale: Your Definitive Guide to an Essential Upgrade

The TJ generation marked a significant evolution for the Wrangler, introducing a more refined coil-spring suspension system that vastly improved ride quality and handling on pavement without sacrificing its formidable off-road prowess. This blend of comfort and capability, coupled with its timeless design, has cemented the TJ’s status as a highly sought-after vehicle even two decades after its production ceased. Its robust 4.0L inline-six engine (standard on most models), solid axles, and ample aftermarket support make it a fantastic platform for customization and adventure.

However, the classic soft top, while offering the ultimate open-air experience, comes with its drawbacks: susceptibility to theft, limited insulation against harsh weather, and significant road noise at highway speeds. This is where the hardtop becomes an indispensable accessory, transforming the TJ from a fair-weather friend into a true year-round companion.

The Undeniable Appeal of a Hardtop for Your TJ Wrangler

For many 1999 Jeep Wrangler owners, the decision to seek out a hardtop is driven by a desire for enhanced comfort, security, and practicality. The benefits are numerous and compelling:

• Enhanced Security: A hardtop offers a far greater deterrent against theft and vandalism compared to a soft top. The rigid structure and lockable rear glass provide peace of mind for valuables stored inside.
• Superior Weather Protection: Whether battling the biting cold of winter, torrential rain, or scorching summer sun, a hardtop provides significantly better insulation. It keeps the cabin warmer in winter and helps the air conditioning work more efficiently in summer.
• Reduced Road Noise: This is perhaps one of the most immediate and noticeable improvements. The hardtop dramatically cuts down on wind noise and road roar, making highway journeys much more comfortable and allowing for easier conversations or enjoyment of your audio system.



• Increased Durability and Longevity: Unlike fabric soft tops that can tear, fade, or degrade over time due to UV exposure and environmental elements, a fiberglass or composite hardtop is built to last for decades with proper care.
• Improved Aesthetics: While subjective, many owners prefer the cleaner, more finished look of a hardtop, especially when color-matched to the vehicle’s paint.
• Potential Resale Value: A Jeep Wrangler equipped with both a soft top and a hardtop often commands a higher resale value due to its increased versatility and desirability.

When considering hardtops, you’ll primarily encounter Factory OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tops, which were designed specifically by Jeep for the TJ. There are also aftermarket options available, though these are less common for the TJ generation now that it’s older. Most aftermarket tops for TJs were designed to mimic the factory look or offer slight variations like two-piece designs or specific window configurations. Ensure any hardtop you consider is explicitly for the 1997-2006 TJ Wrangler, as YJ (1987-1995) hardtops will not fit without extensive, impractical modifications.

What to Look For When Buying a Used 1999 Jeep Wrangler Hardtop

Finding a used hardtop requires careful inspection to ensure you’re getting a functional and valuable addition to your Jeep. Here’s a checklist of critical points:

• Structural Integrity:
  
  • Cracks and Chips: Inspect the entire shell for cracks, especially around the mounting points, window openings, and corners. Small chips can be repaired, but large cracks can compromise structural integrity and lead to leaks.
  • Delamination: Check for any signs of the fiberglass layers separating, which indicates poor manufacturing or significant damage.
• Window Condition:
  • Rear Window Glass: Look for cracks, chips, or excessive scratching. Verify the defroster lines (if equipped) are intact.
  • Side Windows: Ensure they are securely mounted and free from damage.
  • Tint: If tinted, check for bubbling or peeling.
• Seals and Gaskets: This is paramount. The rubber seals around the doors, windows, and the base of the hardtop are crucial for preventing water leaks and reducing noise. Inspect for dryness, cracking, tearing, or compression set. While replaceable, new seals can be an additional cost.
• Interior Headliner: Check for water stains, mold, tears, or sagging. A clean, intact headliner contributes to comfort and insulation.
• Exterior Finish: Look for significant fading, oxidation, or mismatched paint. While a repaint is always an option, it adds to the total cost.
• Completeness of Hardware:
  • Mounting Bolts/Knobs: Ensure all necessary mounting bolts, especially the large T-handle bolts that secure the hardtop to the roll bar, are included.
  • Rear Window Struts: Verify the gas struts that hold up the rear window are present and still strong enough to support the weight of the glass.
  • Wiring Harness: If the hardtop includes a rear wiper and defroster, ensure the wiring harness is present and undamaged.
• Fitment Verification: Double-check that the seller explicitly states it’s for a TJ (1997-2006). If possible, ask for the part number or visual confirmation of the TJ-specific design (e.g., the shape of the rear lower corners where it meets the tub).

Installation and Maintenance Tips for Your TJ Hardtop

Once you’ve secured a hardtop, proper installation and ongoing maintenance will ensure its longevity and performance.

• Installation:
  • Two-Person Job: Due to its weight (typically 120-150 lbs), installing and removing a hardtop is a two-person job. Never attempt it alone to avoid damage to the top or injury to yourself.
  • Clean Surfaces: Before placing the hardtop, ensure the top edges of your Jeep’s tub and door surrounds are clean and free of debris.
  • Proper Seating: Carefully lower the hardtop onto the Jeep, ensuring it seats correctly on all the mounting points and seals properly around the door surrounds.
  • Secure Fasteners: Hand-tighten all mounting bolts initially, then use a wrench to snug them down. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the fiberglass or compress the seals excessively.
  • Electrical Connections: If your hardtop has a rear wiper and defroster, connect the wiring harness. Test both functions immediately.
• Maintenance:
  • Regular Cleaning: Wash the hardtop regularly with car soap, just like the rest of your Jeep. Pay attention to the inside of the rear window.
  • Seal Inspection: Periodically inspect all rubber seals for cracks, tears, or compression. If you notice leaks, these are usually the first culprits. Replacement seal kits are readily available online.
  • Lubrication: Lubricate the rear window hinges and gas struts with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
  • Winter Storage (if removed): If you remove your hardtop for the summer, store it properly. Hardtop hoists (garage ceiling mounts) or dollies are excellent investments. Ensure it’s stored in a dry, protected area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Troubleshooting Leaks: The most common issue with hardtops is water leaks. Often, these are due to old, worn-out seals around the doors, the rear window, or where the hardtop meets the body tub. Replacing these seals is a relatively straightforward DIY task.

Finding a Used 1999 Jeep Wrangler Hardtop For Sale

The search for a used hardtop can be a treasure hunt. Here are the best places to look:

• Online Marketplaces:
  • Craigslist & Facebook Marketplace: These are excellent local resources. Use specific search terms like "TJ hardtop," "Jeep Wrangler hardtop 1997-2006," or "1999 Wrangler hardtop." Be prepared to travel a reasonable distance.
  • eBay: Can be good for finding sellers willing to ship, but shipping costs for a large item like a hardtop can be prohibitive.
• Dedicated Jeep Forums: Websites like JeepForum.com and WranglerForum.com have active classified sections where members often sell parts. These communities can also offer valuable advice.
• Local Salvage Yards/Junkyards: Call around to auto salvage yards in your area. You might get lucky and find a TJ that was totaled but still has an intact hardtop. Prices here can be very low, but condition can vary widely.
• Specialized Jeep Parts Retailers: Some aftermarket Jeep parts retailers might occasionally have used hardtops in stock or can connect you with sellers.
• Local Jeep Clubs: Join a local Jeep club or attend events. Networking with other enthusiasts can often lead to finding parts through word-of-mouth.

Tips for Searching: Be patient. Used hardtops for specific models like the TJ can be in high demand. Be ready to act quickly when a good deal appears. Always request multiple, clear photos if buying remotely, and never hesitate to ask detailed questions about the condition and completeness. Factor in potential travel costs or shipping fees when budgeting.

Practical Advice and Actionable Insights

• Budget Beyond the Purchase Price: Remember to account for potential additional costs such as new seals, touch-up paint, replacement struts for the rear window, or even a rear wiper motor if needed.
• Inspect In Person: Whenever possible, inspect the hardtop in person before committing to a purchase. This allows you to thoroughly check all the points mentioned above.
• Test Fit (If Possible): If the seller allows, and you bring your Jeep, a quick test fit can confirm alignment and identify any immediate issues.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially if you identify minor flaws that will require repair or replacement parts.
• Safety First: If transporting the hardtop yourself, ensure you have an appropriate vehicle (truck or large trailer) and secure it properly to prevent damage during transit.

Concluding Summary

Adding a used hardtop to your 1999 Jeep Wrangler is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. It transforms your vehicle into a more secure, comfortable, and versatile daily driver, capable of tackling any weather condition while still retaining its iconic appeal. While finding the right hardtop requires patience and a keen eye for detail, the benefits of improved security, reduced noise, and enhanced weather protection far outweigh the effort. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find, install, and enjoy a hardtop that will serve your TJ Wrangler for many years to come, solidifying its place as a truly all-season adventure machine.

1999 Jeep Wrangler Used Hardtop For Sale: Estimated Price Guide

Please note that prices for used hardtops can vary significantly based on location, condition, inclusion of hardware/wiring, and seller urgency. This table provides a general range.

Condition Category	Description	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Factors Affecting Price
Poor	Significant cracks, missing/damaged windows, worn seals, heavy oxidation. Needs substantial repair/repaint.	$200 – $500	Extent of damage, missing parts, necessity of professional repair. Often sold "as-is" for parts or major restoration.
Fair	Functional but with noticeable cosmetic flaws (scratches, faded paint), minor cracks, old seals.	$500 – $900	Surface imperfections, minor repairs needed, age of seals. Might be missing some non-essential hardware.
Good	Solid condition, minor cosmetic wear (light scratches), intact windows, usable seals (may need future replacement).	$900 – $1,400	Overall cleanliness, minimal damage, presence of rear wiper/defroster, included hardware. Ready to install with minimal fuss.
Excellent	Near-new condition, minimal to no flaws, all hardware included, fully functional rear wiper/defroster.	$1,400 – $2,000+	Rarity of condition, original paint match, all accessories working perfectly, often from a meticulous owner or recently refurbished. Higher end for color-matched or complete setups.
Average Range	Typical price for a functional, decent-condition used TJ hardtop.	$700 – $1,200	This is the most common range you’ll encounter for a hardtop that’s ready to bolt on and use, possibly with minor cosmetic touch-ups.

Note: Always factor in potential shipping costs or the cost of travel if the hardtop is not local. Replacement seals can cost $100-$300, and a repaint can range from $300-$800+ depending on quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 1999 Jeep Wrangler Used Hardtops

Q1: Will a hardtop from a different year Wrangler fit my 1999 TJ?
A1: Only hardtops designed for the 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler (TJ generation) will fit without significant, often impractical, modifications. Hardtops from the YJ (1987-1995) or JK/JL (2007-present) generations will absolutely NOT fit.

Q2: How much does a TJ hardtop weigh? Can I install it by myself?
A2: A TJ hardtop typically weighs between 120 and 150 pounds. It is strongly recommended to have at least two people for safe installation and removal to prevent damage to the hardtop or injury to yourself. Many owners use a garage hoist system for single-person removal/installation.

Q3: My used hardtop leaks. What’s the most common cause and fix?
A3: Leaks are very common with older hardtops. The most frequent culprits are worn-out rubber seals around the doors, the rear window, or where the hardtop meets the body tub. Replacement seal kits are widely available online and are usually a straightforward DIY fix. Inspect the integrity of the rear window glass as well.

Q4: Do all TJ hardtops come with a rear wiper and defroster?
A4: No. While many factory hardtops for the TJ did include a rear wiper and defroster, some earlier or base models might not have. Always verify with the seller if these features are present and functional if they are important to you. Ensure the necessary wiring harness is included.

Q5: What’s the best way to store my hardtop when I’m not using it?
A5: The best way to store a hardtop is on a purpose-built hardtop hoist (suspended from your garage ceiling) or a hardtop cart/dolly. This keeps it off the ground, prevents warping, and allows for easy maneuvering. Always store it in a dry, protected area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Q6: Are replacement parts like rear window glass or struts available?
A6: Yes, replacement rear window glass, gas struts for the rear window, and complete seal kits are readily available from aftermarket Jeep parts retailers and online. This makes repairing a hardtop quite feasible.

Q7: How much should I expect to pay for a used hardtop?
A7: Prices vary widely based on condition, location, and completeness. A functional but cosmetically flawed hardtop might range from $500-$900, while one in excellent condition with all hardware could be $1,400-$2,000+. Always inspect thoroughly and factor in potential repair costs.