Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Covering Your Classic Icon

Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Covering Your Classic Icon jeeps.truckstrend.com

The Jeep CJ5 stands as an enduring symbol of rugged American adventure. From its military heritage to its role as a beloved civilian workhorse and off-road legend, the CJ5 embodies a spirit of freedom and capability. For owners of this iconic vehicle, ensuring it’s properly equipped for all seasons and adventures often comes down to one crucial component: the top. Whether you’re restoring a classic, seeking protection from the elements, or simply enhancing your CJ5’s aesthetic, finding the right Jeep CJ5 top for sale is a vital step. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about purchasing, installing, and maintaining a top for your cherished CJ5.

The Enduring Appeal of the CJ5 and the Importance of its Top

Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Covering Your Classic Icon

The Jeep CJ5, produced from 1955 to 1983, holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. Its compact size, robust build, and legendary 4×4 capabilities made it a staple for farmers, adventurers, and anyone seeking a no-nonsense, go-anywhere vehicle. While many CJ5s are enjoyed in open-air glory, a reliable top is indispensable for protection against sun, rain, wind, and even for added security. The right top not only shields the occupants and interior but also completes the vehicle’s classic silhouette, enhancing its overall value and appeal.

For a classic vehicle like the CJ5, finding a top isn’t just about functionality; it’s about preserving authenticity, ensuring comfort, and often, completing a restoration project. The market for Jeep CJ5 tops for sale is diverse, offering options that cater to various needs, budgets, and aesthetic preferences.

Why Invest in a New or Used Top for Your CJ5?

Beyond the obvious, there are several compelling reasons to consider acquiring a new or replacement top for your CJ5:

• Protection from the Elements: This is the primary function. A good top shields the interior from rain, snow, harsh sunlight, and biting winds, making your CJ5 usable in more diverse weather conditions.
• Enhanced Comfort: With a top, you can enjoy a quieter ride, better temperature regulation (especially with a hard top), and a more comfortable experience during longer drives or adverse weather.
• Improved Security: Hard tops, in particular, offer a significant boost in security, protecting your belongings from theft and providing a more secure enclosure than an open vehicle. Even a soft top offers a deterrent.



• Restoration and Aesthetics: A faded, ripped, or missing top detracts significantly from a CJ5’s appearance. A new top can dramatically improve its visual appeal, completing a restoration or simply refreshing an aging vehicle.
• Increased Resale Value: A well-maintained CJ5 with a complete, functional top will generally fetch a higher price on the market than one without.
• Versatility: Many tops offer modularity, allowing you to go from fully enclosed to open-air with relative ease, adapting to your adventure.

Understanding the Types of CJ5 Tops Available

When searching for a Jeep CJ5 top for sale, you’ll primarily encounter three main categories, each with its own characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks:

1. Soft Tops

Soft tops are the quintessential Jeep top, offering the flexibility to quickly convert from an enclosed cabin to an open-air experience.

• Materials: Most commonly made from durable vinyl (like sailcloth or denim-grain) or canvas. High-quality vinyl offers excellent weather resistance and longevity, while canvas can provide a more classic, rugged look.
• Construction: Consist of a fabric skin supported by a collapsible frame (bows) that attaches to the CJ5’s body. They typically include clear vinyl windows for visibility.
• Pros:
  • Convertibility: Easily folded down or removed for an open-air experience.
  • Lightweight: Minimal impact on fuel economy or handling.
  • Storage: Can be stored more compactly than a hard top.
  • Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than hard tops.
  • Classic Look: Many prefer the traditional Jeep aesthetic of a soft top.
• Cons:
  • Less Secure: Easier to break into and offers less protection against vandalism.
  • Less Insulation: Poorer thermal and acoustic insulation compared to hard tops.
  • Durability: More susceptible to rips, tears, and UV degradation over time.
  • Noise: Can be noisier at highway speeds due to wind flap.

2. Hard Tops

Hard tops provide a more permanent and robust enclosure, transforming the CJ5 into a more car-like environment.

• Materials: Typically constructed from fiberglass, sometimes with an internal lining.
• Construction: A rigid, single-piece or multi-piece shell that bolts onto the CJ5’s body. Many include glass windows (some with sliders), rear liftgates, and sometimes features like rear wipers or defrosters.
• Pros:
  • Superior Security: Much harder to breach, offering better protection for valuables.
  • Excellent Insulation: Provides better thermal and acoustic insulation, making for a quieter and more comfortable ride in extreme temperatures.
  • Durability: Highly resistant to weather, impact, and UV damage.
  • Year-Round Use: Ideal for colder climates or daily driving.
• Cons:
  • Heavy and Bulky: Difficult to remove and store without assistance or specialized equipment.
  • Less Convertible: Not designed for quick open-air conversion.
  • Higher Cost: Generally more expensive to purchase than soft tops.
  • Storage: Requires significant space for off-season storage.

3. Bikini Tops / Safari Tops

These are minimalist tops designed for sun protection and light rain, perfect for fair-weather cruising or off-roading.

• Materials: Usually durable fabric like vinyl or canvas.
• Construction: Cover only the front occupants, attaching to the windshield frame and roll bar. Some "Safari" versions extend further back.
• Pros:
  • Lightweight and Easy to Install/Remove: Can be put on or taken off in minutes.
  • Sun Protection: Keeps direct sun off the driver and passenger.
  • Open-Air Feel: Retains almost all of the open-air experience.
  • Cost-Effective: Generally the least expensive option.
• Cons:
  • Limited Protection: No side or rear protection from elements.
  • No Security: Offers no security for the cabin.

Key Considerations Before Buying a CJ5 Top

Purchasing a top for your CJ5 requires careful thought to ensure you get the right product for your needs and budget.

• Year and Model Specificity: While CJ5s were produced for many years, top designs can vary slightly. Always confirm the top is compatible with your specific CJ5 year. Aftermarket tops are generally designed to fit a range of years within the CJ5 production run.
• Condition (for Used Tops): If considering a used top, inspect it thoroughly.
  • Soft Tops: Look for rips, tears, worn seams, cloudy or scratched windows, and rusted or bent bows/frames.
  • Hard Tops: Check for cracks, delamination, damage to seals, missing hardware, and condition of glass windows (if applicable).
• Hardware and Frame: Many tops are sold "skin only" or "top only," meaning they don’t include the necessary bows, frames, or mounting hardware. Ensure you know exactly what’s included and factor in the cost of missing components. A complete hardware kit for a soft top can be surprisingly expensive.
• Material Quality: Higher-quality vinyl or canvas will last longer and resist fading better. For hard tops, inspect the fiberglass for quality and finish.
• Installation Complexity: Are you comfortable with a DIY installation, or will you need professional help? Soft tops generally require stretching and snapping, while hard tops often need multiple people to lift and align.
• Your Climate and Usage: If you live in a cold or rainy climate, a hard top might be a better investment. For fair-weather cruising or off-roading, a soft top or bikini top might suffice.
• Budget: Tops range widely in price. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Remember to factor in potential shipping costs if buying online.

Where to Find Jeep CJ5 Tops For Sale

The market for Jeep CJ5 tops for sale is robust, offering several avenues for finding your ideal cover:

• Specialty Jeep Parts Retailers: Companies like Bestop, Smittybilt, and Rampage Products are major manufacturers of aftermarket Jeep tops and often have specific CJ5 applications. Online retailers like Quadratec, 4 Wheel Parts, and Morris 4×4 Center carry a wide selection of new tops and hardware.
• Direct from Manufacturers: Some manufacturers sell directly from their websites, offering full product support.
• Online Marketplaces:
  • eBay: Excellent for both new and used tops, including rare or vintage options. Be cautious and verify seller reputation.
  • Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace: Great for local finds, potentially allowing you to inspect the top in person before purchase.
  • Jeep Forums and Enthusiast Groups: Dedicated CJ5 forums and Facebook groups are fantastic resources. Members often sell used parts, and you can get advice from experienced owners.
• Salvage Yards/Auto Recyclers: While a long shot, you might occasionally find a usable hard top or soft top frame on a salvaged CJ5. Inspection is crucial here.
• Custom Fabricators: For unique needs or a truly bespoke look, some automotive upholstery shops can custom-fabricate soft tops.

Installation Tips & Potential Challenges

Installing a CJ5 top can be a rewarding DIY project, but it requires patience and attention to detail.

• Soft Top Installation:
  • Read Instructions Carefully: Every manufacturer’s top is slightly different.
  • Warmth is Key: Install soft tops on a warm day or after letting the fabric warm up in the sun. This makes the material more pliable and easier to stretch for a tight fit.
  • Start Loose: Don’t tighten all fasteners immediately. Get everything aligned and then progressively tighten for a snug, wrinkle-free fit.
  • Bow Assembly: Ensure the soft top bows are assembled correctly and are not bent or damaged.
• Hard Top Installation:
  • Assistance: Hard tops are heavy. You’ll need at least one, often two, helpers to lift and position it safely.
  • Seals: Pay close attention to the weatherstripping and seals around the doors and tailgate to prevent leaks. Replace old or cracked seals.
  • Wiring: If your hard top includes a rear wiper, defroster, or interior light, ensure the wiring harness is compatible and properly connected.
• Common Challenges and Solutions:
  • Leaks: The most common complaint. Check seals, adjust alignment, and use silicone sealant in problem areas.
  • Poor Fit: Ensure you have the correct top for your CJ5. If new, contact the manufacturer. If used, inspect for previous damage or frame issues.
  • Missing Hardware: Source original or aftermarket replacement hardware kits.
  • Zipper Issues: Lubricate zippers with silicone spray or wax. For stubborn issues, consider professional repair.

Maintaining Your CJ5 Top for Longevity

Proper maintenance will extend the life and appearance of your CJ5 top.

• Soft Tops:
  • Regular Cleaning: Use specialized soft top cleaners to remove dirt and grime without damaging the fabric or windows. Avoid harsh detergents.
  • UV Protection: Apply UV protectants regularly, especially to vinyl windows, to prevent clouding and cracking.
  • Zipper Care: Keep zippers clean and lubricated.
  • Storage: When not in use, store folded soft tops in a clean, dry, climate-controlled area, away from direct sunlight.
• Hard Tops:
  • Washing: Wash with car soap and water, just like the rest of your vehicle.
  • Waxing: Apply automotive wax to fiberglass hard tops for UV protection and shine.
  • Seal Inspection: Periodically check and replace weatherstripping and seals to prevent leaks.

Estimated Price Table for Jeep CJ5 Tops For Sale

Prices can vary significantly based on brand, material quality, condition (new vs. used), and included hardware. The following are general estimates:

Top Type	Condition	Price Range (USD)	Notes
Soft Top (Complete Kit)	New	$500 – $900+	Includes fabric, windows, and all necessary bows/frames/hardware.
	Used	$200 – $500	Varies greatly based on condition of fabric and hardware. Check for rips.
Soft Top (Skin Only)	New	$300 – $600	Fabric and windows only, assumes you have existing bows/frame.
Hard Top (Complete)	New	$1,500 – $3,000+	Fiberglass, includes glass windows, often rear hatch. Can be painted.
	Used	$500 – $1,500	Condition dependent. Look for cracks, seal integrity, and hardware.
Bikini Top	New	$100 – $250	Minimalist sun shade, attaches to windshield and roll bar.
Safari Top	New	$150 – $350	Extends further back than a bikini top, more sun/light rain protection.
Soft Top Hardware Kit	New	$300 – $600	Essential if your CJ5 has no soft top frame or it’s damaged.

Note: These prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on market demand, brand reputation, and specific features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Jeep CJ5 Tops

Q1: Are CJ5 tops interchangeable with other CJ models (e.g., CJ7)?
A1: Generally, no. CJ5s have a shorter wheelbase and different body dimensions than CJ7s. While some very minor components might be shared, a CJ7 top will not properly fit a CJ5, and vice-versa, due to length and attachment point differences.

Q2: How long do soft tops typically last?
A2: A good quality new soft top, with proper care and UV protection, can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or more. Factors like exposure to harsh weather, frequent folding, and lack of cleaning can significantly shorten its lifespan.

Q3: Can I install a hard top by myself?
A3: It’s highly recommended to have at least one, if not two, additional people to help install or remove a hard top. They are heavy and cumbersome, and attempting it alone risks damage to the top, the Jeep, or yourself.

Q4: What’s the best material for a soft top – vinyl or canvas?
A4: Both have pros and cons. Vinyl (especially sailcloth or denim-grain vinyl) is generally more water-resistant, easier to clean, and often more durable against tears. Canvas (like traditional "duck" canvas) offers a more classic, rugged look and can breathe better, but it’s more susceptible to water absorption and requires more specific cleaning. The "best" depends on your priorities for looks, durability, and maintenance.

Q5: Are aftermarket tops as good as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tops?
A5: For the CJ5, finding an "OEM" top is virtually impossible as they are no longer manufactured. Modern aftermarket tops from reputable brands (like Bestop, Smittybilt) are often superior in material quality, design, and manufacturing processes compared to what was originally available decades ago. They are designed to fit precisely and offer excellent performance.

Q6: Where can I find replacement parts for my existing CJ5 top (e.g., windows, zippers, bows)?
A6: Many specialty Jeep parts retailers sell replacement windows for soft tops, and hardware kits for bows and frames. For specific zipper repairs, an automotive upholstery shop might be able to help. Online marketplaces and Jeep forums are also good for finding used or rare individual components.

Conclusion

The Jeep CJ5 is more than just a vehicle; it’s a statement, a hobby, and often, a cherished part of a lifestyle. Investing in the right top for your CJ5 is a critical decision that impacts its functionality, aesthetics, and your enjoyment. By understanding the different types of tops available, carefully considering your needs and budget, and knowing where to source quality products, you can confidently find the perfect Jeep CJ5 top for sale. Whether you opt for the classic flexibility of a soft top or the robust protection of a hard top, a well-chosen and maintained cover will ensure your iconic CJ5 is ready for countless adventures, come rain or shine.