Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Your Perfect Lid

Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Your Perfect Lid jeeps.truckstrend.com

The Jeep CJ5 is more than just a vehicle; it’s an icon of rugged individualism, off-road prowess, and classic American design. For owners of these beloved vintage machines, whether they’re tackling challenging trails, cruising scenic routes, or embarking on a meticulous restoration, the choice of a top is paramount. A "Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale" isn’t just an accessory; it’s a critical component that dictates protection, comfort, security, and the overall aesthetic of your cherished CJ5. From shielding occupants from the elements to transforming the vehicle’s personality, understanding the myriad options available for sale is essential for any CJ5 enthusiast. This comprehensive guide will navigate the landscape of CJ5 tops, offering insights, advice, and practical information to help you make an informed decision.

Why a New Top? Understanding the Need for a CJ5 Lid

Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Your Perfect Lid

The decision to seek out a new top for your Jeep CJ5 often stems from a variety of compelling reasons, each contributing to the vehicle’s functionality, appearance, and the owner’s satisfaction.

• Restoration Projects: Many CJ5s are undergoing full or partial restorations. A new top is often a final, crucial piece of the puzzle, bringing the vehicle back to its original glory or updating it with modern materials for enhanced durability and comfort.
• Damaged or Worn Existing Tops: Decades of sun, rain, and use take their toll. Faded fabric, torn windows, rusted frames, and cracked fiberglass are common ailments for original or aging aftermarket tops. Replacing a damaged top ensures proper protection and improves the vehicle’s appearance significantly.
• Seasonal Changes and Versatility: Many owners desire the flexibility to adapt their CJ5 to different seasons. A hardtop provides superior insulation and security for colder months or daily driving, while a soft top offers the quintessential open-air Jeep experience for warmer weather, often being easier to remove and store.
• Aesthetics and Customization: The top dramatically influences the CJ5’s look. Upgrading to a new color, material, or style can refresh the vehicle’s appearance, aligning it more closely with the owner’s personal taste or the desired theme of the build.
• Enhanced Protection: A well-fitting, intact top offers essential protection against rain, snow, wind, and harsh UV rays, preserving the interior and ensuring a more comfortable ride for occupants. It also adds a layer of security against theft of valuables.

Types of Jeep CJ5 Tops Available

When searching for a "Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale," you’ll primarily encounter two main categories: soft tops and hardtops, each with distinct advantages and characteristics.

Soft Tops

Soft tops are the quintessential Jeep accessory, embodying the spirit of open-air adventure. They are generally more affordable and versatile.

• Materials: Most modern soft tops are made from durable marine-grade vinyl or sailcloth (a heavy-duty canvas-like material). Vinyl is generally more budget-friendly and easier to clean, while sailcloth offers a more premium look, better insulation, and a quieter ride.
• Styles:
  • Full Soft Top: The most common type, covering the entire cabin, often with removable side and rear windows for an open-air feel.
  • Bikini Top: A minimalist top that covers only the front seats, offering sun protection but no side or rear enclosure. Ideal for trail riding or beach cruising.

  

  • Safari Top: Similar to a bikini top but extends further back, covering both front and rear seats (if applicable), providing more shade.
• Benefits: Lightweight, easy to remove and store (often folding down), classic Jeep aesthetic, lower cost, excellent for fair weather.
• Considerations: Less secure than hardtops, offers minimal insulation against cold/heat, can be noisier at highway speeds, requires more frequent cleaning and maintenance to prevent mildew and fading.

Hardtops

Hardtops offer superior protection, security, and comfort, transforming the CJ5 into a more enclosed and weather-resistant vehicle.

• Materials: Typically constructed from fiberglass, though original equipment (OE) tops might be steel. Fiberglass offers a good balance of strength and weight.
• Styles:
  • Full Hardtop: Encloses the entire cabin, often with fixed or sliding windows. Provides excellent weather protection and security.
  • Half Cab Hardtop: Designed for CJ5s with a bed (like a CJ-5 pickup conversion), covering only the front cabin.
• Benefits: Excellent security, superior insulation against temperature and sound, greater durability, maintains interior temperature better, professional appearance.
• Considerations: Heavy and requires multiple people or a hoist to remove, difficult to store when not in use, generally more expensive, less flexible for quick open-air driving.

Where to Find Jeep CJ5 Tops For Sale

The market for "Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale" is diverse, ranging from brand-new aftermarket options to vintage used units.

• New Aftermarket Retailers:
  • Specialized Jeep Parts Stores: Online giants like Quadratec, Morris 4×4, and 4Wheel Parts, along with smaller dedicated vendors, offer a vast selection of new soft tops and, less commonly, new fiberglass hardtops. Brands like Bestop, Smittybilt, and Rugged Ridge are popular manufacturers.
  • Pros: New condition, warranty, consistent quality, wide selection of colors/materials, often include all necessary hardware.
  • Cons: Higher price point.
• Used/Original Equipment (OE) Marketplaces:
  • Online Classifieds: Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are treasure troves for used CJ5 tops. You might find original hardtops or gently used soft tops.
  • Jeep Forums and Owner Groups: Dedicated forums and social media groups for CJ5 enthusiasts are excellent places to find tops for sale directly from other owners.
  • Salvage Yards/Junkyards: With some luck and persistence, you might uncover an original hardtop or a usable soft top frame at a salvage yard specializing in older vehicles.
  • Pros: Potentially much lower cost, possibility of finding rare original parts, good for restoration purists.
  • Cons: Condition can vary wildly (cracks, tears, missing parts, fading), no warranty, may require significant cleaning or repair, fitment issues if not for your exact year.
• Custom Fabrication: For those with unique needs or a desire for something truly bespoke, local fiberglass shops or metal fabricators can create custom tops. This is the most expensive route but offers unparalleled personalization and fit.

Key Considerations Before Buying a CJ5 Top

Before pulling the trigger on a "Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale," a thorough evaluation is crucial to ensure you get the right product for your needs and budget.

• Year of Your CJ5: While CJ5s generally share a similar body, slight variations in windshield frame, roll bar, and body tub over its long production run (1955-1983) can affect top fitment. Always confirm compatibility with your specific model year.
• Condition (for Used Tops): Inspect used soft tops for tears, rips, sun fading, zipper functionality, and window clarity (they often yellow or crack). For hardtops, check for cracks, delamination, missing weatherstripping, and window integrity. Don’t forget to check the condition of the frame and hardware.
• Material Quality: Invest in durable materials. For soft tops, look for marine-grade vinyl or high-quality sailcloth that resists UV damage and mildew. For hardtops, ensure the fiberglass is sturdy and free from major structural damage.
• Hardware and Frame: Does the top come with all necessary mounting hardware, bows, and frames? Many used tops are sold "as is" and may require you to source these crucial components separately, adding to the cost and complexity.
• Installation Difficulty: Soft tops generally require assembly of a frame and stretching the fabric, which can be a DIY project. Hardtops are heavy and often require at least two people, or even a hoist, for safe installation and removal.
• Budget: Hardtops are typically more expensive than soft tops. New tops cost more than used ones. Set a realistic budget and stick to it, factoring in potential shipping costs, especially for large items like hardtops.
• Intended Use: Will your CJ5 be a daily driver, a weekend trail rig, or a show vehicle? This will influence whether you prioritize insulation and security (hardtop) or ease of removal and open-air experience (soft top).
• Aesthetics: Consider the color and style that best complements your CJ5’s paint job and overall theme.

Installation Guide: Getting Your New Top On

While detailed instructions vary by manufacturer and top type, the general process for installing a CJ5 top involves a few key steps:

1. Gather Tools: You’ll typically need basic hand tools like wrenches, screwdrivers, and possibly a drill.
2. Remove Old Top (if applicable): Carefully unbolt or unlatch your existing top and its frame. For hardtops, this is a two-person job.
3. Assemble Frame (Soft Tops): New soft tops usually come with a frame that needs to be assembled and mounted to the CJ5’s tub and windshield frame. Follow the manufacturer’s precise instructions.
4. Attach Fabric/Hardtop Shell:
   • Soft Top: Drape the fabric over the assembled frame, ensuring it’s oriented correctly. Begin attaching it at designated points (usually front, then sides, then rear) using snaps, Velcro, and channels. It helps if the top is warm to make the fabric more pliable.
   • Hardtop: Carefully lift the hardtop onto the CJ5’s tub, aligning it with the mounting points. Secure it with bolts or clamps.
5. Secure All Points: Ensure all zippers are functional, snaps are snapped, and bolts are tightened. Check for proper tension in soft tops to prevent flapping.
6. Seal and Adjust: For hardtops, check the weatherstripping for a good seal. For both types, ensure windows close properly and there are no significant gaps.

Maintaining Your CJ5 Top

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

• Cleaning:
  • Soft Tops: Use mild soap and water or specialized vinyl/canvas cleaners. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes. Rinse thoroughly.
  • Hardtops: Wash with automotive soap and water. You can wax fiberglass hardtops for added protection and shine.
• Storage: When not in use, soft tops should be cleaned and folded according to manufacturer instructions to prevent creases and damage. Hardtops are best stored on a hardtop dolly or hung from a hoist system to prevent warping and save space.
• UV Protection: Use UV protectant sprays on soft tops to prevent fading and cracking.
• Repair: Address small tears in soft tops with repair kits promptly to prevent them from growing. Small cracks in fiberglass hardtops can often be repaired with fiberglass repair kits.

Practical Advice and Actionable Insights

• Measure Twice, Buy Once: Always verify the year and model of your CJ5 and cross-reference it with the top’s compatibility.
• Don’t Compromise on Quality: While budget is a factor, investing in a good quality top (especially new aftermarket) will save you money and headaches in the long run.
• Join CJ5 Owner Groups: These communities are invaluable resources for advice, finding used parts, and getting installation tips.
• Always Inspect Used Tops Thoroughly: Pictures can be deceiving. If possible, inspect used tops in person before purchasing. Ask for detailed photos of any imperfections.
• Factor in Shipping Costs: Large items like hardtops can be expensive to ship. Local pickup often saves a significant amount.

Estimated Price Range Table for Jeep CJ5 Tops For Sale

Type of Top	Material	Key Features	Estimated Price Range (New)	Estimated Price Range (Used)	Notes
Soft Top	Vinyl (Standard)	Full coverage, clear windows, basic hardware	$350 – $650	$100 – $300	Good value, common, can fade over time.
Soft Top	Sailcloth	Full coverage, tinted windows, quieter, durable	$600 – $900	$250 – $450	Premium option, better insulation, longer lifespan.
Bikini Top	Vinyl/Mesh	Covers front seats, sun shade, simple	$100 – $200	$40 – $100	Minimalist, fair weather only, easy install/removal.
Safari Top	Vinyl/Canvas	Covers front/rear seats, extended shade	$150 – $300	$60 – $150	More coverage than bikini, still open-air.
Hardtop	Fiberglass	Full enclosure, security, insulation, windows	$1,500 – $3,000+	$400 – $1,500	Heavy, durable, best for security and cold weather.
Hardtop (OE)	Fiberglass/Steel	Original factory fit, may require restoration	N/A (Discontinued)	$500 – $2,000+	Rare, highly sought after by purists, condition varies widely.

Note: Prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on brand, condition, rarity, location, and market demand.

Concluding Summary

Finding the right "Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale" is a significant step in enhancing your vehicle’s functionality, appearance, and your overall ownership experience. Whether you prioritize the open-air freedom of a soft top, the robust security and comfort of a hardtop, or the minimalist appeal of a bikini top, the market offers a wide array of choices. By understanding the types available, knowing where to look, carefully considering key factors like year compatibility and condition, and committing to proper maintenance, you can ensure your CJ5 remains a versatile and enjoyable companion for years to come. The right top doesn’t just complete your CJ5; it truly transforms it, allowing you to conquer any journey in style and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Jeep CJ5 Tops

Q: Are CJ5 tops interchangeable between all model years?
A: Not entirely. While many components are similar, there were subtle changes in windshield frames, roll bar designs, and body tubs between the early, mid, and late production CJ5s (e.g., ’55-’71, ’72-’75, ’76-’83). Always confirm the top’s compatibility with your specific CJ5 year.

Q: Can I install a hardtop by myself?
A: It is highly discouraged. CJ5 hardtops are heavy and awkward. Attempting to install or remove one alone risks damaging the top, the vehicle, or causing personal injury. It’s best to have at least two strong people or use a dedicated hardtop hoist system.

Q: How long do soft tops typically last?
A: The lifespan of a soft top varies greatly depending on the material quality, climate, and how well it’s maintained. A good quality vinyl top might last 5-7 years, while a premium sailcloth top, with proper care and UV protection, could last 8-12 years or more. Neglect and constant exposure to harsh elements will significantly shorten its life.

Q: What’s the best way to clean a vinyl soft top?
A: For general cleaning, use a mild automotive soap or a specialized vinyl soft top cleaner with warm water and a soft-bristle brush or sponge. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Avoid harsh detergents, abrasive cleaners, or pressure washers, as these can damage the vinyl and stitching. Apply a UV protectant periodically.

Q: Do hardtops make a CJ5 significantly quieter inside?
A: Yes, generally. Hardtops offer much better sound insulation compared to soft tops, reducing road noise, wind noise, and engine noise. This makes for a more comfortable and quieter ride, especially at highway speeds, and improves the performance of the vehicle’s audio system.