Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Iconic Off-Roader

Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Iconic Off-Roader jeeps.truckstrend.com

The Jeep CJ5, a true legend in the off-road world, embodies rugged simplicity, go-anywhere capability, and an undeniable vintage charm. Produced from 1955 to 1983, this iconic vehicle has captured the hearts of enthusiasts for generations. While its open-air design is part of its appeal, a good top is essential for protection from the elements, security, and enhanced comfort. Whether you’re restoring a classic, upgrading your current setup, or simply looking for seasonal versatility, navigating the market for a "Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale" requires understanding the various options, considerations, and where to find them. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision, ensuring your CJ5 remains a joy to drive, come rain or shine.

Understanding the Jeep CJ5 Top Landscape

Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Iconic Off-Roader

The Jeep CJ5’s long production run means there’s a significant diversity in body styles and accessories, including tops. Originally, CJ5s could be purchased with a basic canvas soft top, a more robust vinyl soft top, or even a factory hardtop, often made of fiberglass. Over the decades, these original tops have weathered, torn, or simply been lost to time, leading to a vibrant aftermarket and used market for replacements.

Owners seek new or replacement tops for a variety of reasons:

• Restoration: To bring a vintage CJ5 back to its original glory.
• Protection: Shielding the interior and occupants from sun, rain, snow, and wind.
• Security: A full top, especially a hardtop, offers a deterrent against theft of valuables.
• Comfort: Reducing wind noise, improving insulation, and providing a more comfortable ride in varying temperatures.
• Versatility: Switching between a full enclosure for winter and a minimalist top for summer.



• Aesthetics: A new top can dramatically improve the look of a tired CJ5.

The market offers a blend of options: brand-new aftermarket tops from reputable manufacturers, used original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tops, and even custom fabrication. Each comes with its own set of benefits and challenges, making careful consideration paramount.

Types of Jeep CJ5 Tops Available

The choice of top significantly impacts your CJ5’s usability and character. There are primarily two main categories: soft tops and hardtops, with several variations within each.

1. Soft Tops

Soft tops are the quintessential Jeep accessory, offering flexibility and that classic open-air feel. They are generally lighter and easier to store than hardtops.

• Standard Full Soft Tops: These provide complete enclosure, covering the entire cabin from the windshield to the tailgate. They typically include clear vinyl windows (side and rear) and often come with a frame (bows) that supports the fabric.
  
  • Materials: Common materials include durable vinyl, sailcloth (a premium, quieter vinyl), or sometimes canvas.
  • Benefits: Lightweight, easy to remove and store, classic Jeep aesthetic, versatile for quick open-air driving, generally more affordable.
  • Challenges: Less insulation, can be noisy at speed, less secure against theft, vinyl windows can scratch or yellow over time, susceptible to tears.
• Bikini/Safari Tops: These minimalist tops cover only the front seating area, providing shade from the sun and protection from light rain. They typically attach to the windshield frame and roll bar.
  • Benefits: Ultimate open-air experience, quick installation/removal, very compact when stored.
  • Challenges: No side or rear protection, not suitable for cold or heavy weather.
• Brief Tops: Even smaller than bikini tops, these often cover just the driver and front passenger.
  • Benefits: Even quicker to install, very minimal.
  • Challenges: Limited protection, mainly for sun.

2. Hard Tops

Hardtops offer superior protection, security, and insulation, transforming your CJ5 into a more comfortable, all-weather vehicle. They are typically made from fiberglass, though some rare steel versions exist.

• Full Hardtops: These are solid, one-piece shells that enclose the entire cabin. They come with glass windows and often include a rear liftgate.
  • Benefits: Excellent weather protection, enhanced security, reduced road noise, better insulation for colder climates, durable and long-lasting.
  • Challenges: Heavy and difficult to remove/install (often requiring two people or a hoist), requires significant storage space when off the vehicle, generally more expensive.
• Two-Piece Hardtops: Some manufacturers offer hardtops with a removable front section, allowing for a "bikini top" style opening while keeping the rear enclosed.
  • Benefits: Combines some versatility of a soft top with the durability and security of a hardtop.
  • Challenges: Still heavy, potential for leaks at the seam if not properly sealed.

Key Considerations When Buying a Jeep CJ5 Top

Purchasing a top for your CJ5 isn’t just about finding one "for sale"; it’s about finding the right one.

• Condition (New vs. Used):
  • New Aftermarket: Offers perfect condition, warranty, and all necessary hardware. Quality varies by brand.
  • Used: Can save significant money but requires careful inspection. Look for tears, fading, rust on frames, cloudy or scratched windows, and missing hardware. An OEM used hardtop, if found in good condition, can be a valuable find.
• Material Quality: For soft tops, consider the thickness and durability of the vinyl or canvas. Premium materials like sailcloth are quieter and more resistant to shrinking and fading. For hardtops, inspect the fiberglass for cracks, delamination, or previous repairs.
• Fitment and Year Range: The CJ5 had several body changes throughout its long production run, particularly concerning the windshield frame and roll bar. Ensure the top is specifically designed for your CJ5’s year. Aftermarket tops are typically designed to fit a range of years, but double-check compatibility.
• Hardware and Installation:
  • Soft Tops: Do they include the necessary bows, support rods, snaps, and channels? Missing hardware can be costly and difficult to source.
  • Hard Tops: Does it come with the required mounting brackets, seals, and window glass?
  • Installation Difficulty: Soft tops generally require some assembly of the frame and stretching of the fabric. Hardtops are heavy and often need two or more people, or a hoist, to safely install and remove. Consider if you’re comfortable with DIY or if professional installation is needed.
• Purpose and Use:
  • Daily Driver: A hardtop or a high-quality soft top offers the best comfort and protection.
  • Trail Rig: A durable soft top might be preferred for ease of removal and less worry about scratching.
  • Show Vehicle: An OEM-style soft top or a perfectly restored hardtop would be ideal.
  • Seasonal Use: If you plan to switch between tops, consider ease of removal and storage.
• Budget: Prices vary wildly, from a couple of hundred dollars for a basic used soft top to several thousand for a new premium hardtop. Factor in shipping costs, which can be substantial for bulky items like hardtops.

Where to Find Jeep CJ5 Tops For Sale

The market for CJ5 tops is diverse, offering several avenues for potential buyers.

• Online Retailers & Specialists:
  • Dedicated Jeep Parts Sites: Companies like Quadratec, Morris 4×4 Center, Bestop, and Smittybilt (who also manufacture tops) are excellent sources for new aftermarket soft and hard tops, as well as replacement parts and hardware kits.
  • Amazon & eBay: Can offer competitive pricing, but verify seller reputation and return policies, especially for larger items. Be wary of generic listings.
• Local Stores & Shops:
  • Off-Road and 4×4 Shops: Many local shops stock popular aftermarket tops or can order them for you. They may also offer installation services.
  • Classic Car Parts Dealers: Occasionally, these might have new old stock (NOS) or used OEM tops.
• Used Market:
  • Craigslist & Facebook Marketplace: Excellent for finding used tops locally, often at lower prices. Be prepared to inspect in person.
  • Jeep Forums & Classifieds: Online communities dedicated to Jeeps (especially CJ models) often have classified sections where members sell parts. This is a great place to find knowledgeable sellers.
  • Salvage Yards/Junkyards: A long shot, but sometimes you can find an intact hardtop or soft top frame on a derelict CJ5.
• Restoration Specialists: For unique or custom solutions, a specialist fabrication shop might be able to repair or even build a custom top, though this will be the most expensive option.

Installation Tips and Challenges

Whether you choose a soft top or a hardtop, installation can be a significant undertaking.

• Soft Top Installation:
  • Bows and Frame: Ensure all frame pieces are present and not bent or rusted. Lubricate pivot points.
  • Fabric Stretching: New soft tops need to be stretched into place, often easier in warmer temperatures. Zippers and snaps should align without excessive force.
  • Sealing: Ensure the top seals properly around the doors and windshield to prevent leaks. Weatherstripping may need replacement.
• Hard Top Installation:
  • Weight: Hardtops are heavy. Always use at least two people, or ideally a garage hoist system, to lift and position the top safely.
  • Gaskets and Seals: Crucial for a watertight seal. Inspect existing seals on used tops and replace if necessary. Pay attention to the windshield frame and body tub interface.
  • Alignment: Proper alignment is key for doors to close correctly and for preventing leaks.
  • Bolting: Ensure all mounting bolts are present and secure, but do not overtighten fiberglass.

Common Challenges & Solutions:

• Rust: Especially on soft top frames or hardtop mounting points. Treat rust, replace rusted components.
• Stripped Bolts: Use penetrating oil, heat, or extractors. Replace with new, quality hardware.
• Missing Parts: Be meticulous about checking for all components before purchase. Sourcing individual pieces can be difficult and costly.
• Leaks: The most common frustration. Check all seals, window frames, and ensure the top is properly seated and tightened. Weatherstripping replacement is often the solution.

Maintaining Your CJ5 Top

Proper maintenance extends the life of your top and keeps your CJ5 looking its best.

• Cleaning:
  • Soft Tops: Use mild soap and water, or specialized vinyl/fabric cleaners. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes. Rinse thoroughly.
  • Hard Tops: Treat like your vehicle’s paint, washing regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
• Window Care (Soft Tops): Vinyl windows are prone to scratching. Use a soft cloth and plastic-specific cleaner. Avoid wiping when dry or dirty. Products exist to improve clarity and reduce yellowing.
• Zipper Lubrication: For soft tops, lubricate zippers periodically with a silicone-based lubricant to prevent sticking and wear.
• Repairing Tears/Cracks: Small tears in soft tops can often be patched with repair kits. Fiberglass hardtops can be repaired using fiberglass repair kits, though matching paint can be tricky.
• Proper Storage: When not in use, store soft tops folded or rolled cleanly in a dry, temperate place. Hardtops should be stored on a dedicated cart or hoist system to prevent warping or damage.

Price Table: Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale (Estimated Ranges)

Please note: Prices are highly variable based on brand, material quality, condition (for used), completeness of kit, and market demand. These are general estimates. Shipping costs for large items like hardtops can be substantial.

Top Type	Condition	Typical Price Range (USD)	Key Features / Notes
Soft Top (Full)	New Aftermarket	$400 – $1,200+	Complete kit including fabric, frame, windows, and necessary hardware. Price varies significantly by material (vinyl, sailcloth, canvas) and brand reputation (e.g., Bestop, Smittybilt).
	Used (Good)	$200 – $700	Fabric largely intact, zippers functional, minor fading/wear. May require some new hardware or minor repairs. Inspect carefully for tears, cloudy windows.
	Used (Fair/Poor)	$50 – $200	Significant wear, tears, non-functional zippers, or severely clouded windows. Often sold for parts or for those willing to undertake significant repairs. Frame may be salvageable.
Bikini/Safari Top	New Aftermarket	$100 – $300	Minimalist top providing sun and light rain protection over the front seats. Requires windshield channel. Simple installation.
	Used	$50 – $150	Check for tears, fading, and attachment points.
Full Hardtop	New Aftermarket	$1,500 – $3,500+	Fiberglass construction, includes windows (often glass). May require painting/finishing to match your CJ5. Heavy and bulky for shipping.
	Used (Good)	$800 – $2,000	Can be a great value if found in solid condition. Inspect for cracks, missing window seals, and overall structural integrity. Paint condition will vary.
	Used (Fair/Poor)	$300 – $800	May have cosmetic damage, missing windows, significant cracks, or require extensive repair/restoration work (e.g., bodywork, paint, new seals).
Two-Piece Hardtop	New Aftermarket	$1,800 – $4,000+	Offers versatility with a removable front section. Less common than one-piece hardtops.
	Used	$1,000 – $2,500	Rarer on the used market. Inspect fitment of both pieces and condition of the sealing between them.
Replacement Parts	Individual Fabric	$200 – $600	Just the fabric skin for an existing soft top frame. Good if your frame is solid but fabric is worn.
	Hardware Kits	$50 – $300	Includes bows, snaps, channels, latches, and other components necessary for soft top installation.
	Replacement Windows	$50 – $200 per window	For soft tops (vinyl) or hardtops (tempered glass).

Factors Affecting Price: Brand reputation, material quality, completeness of kit, condition (for used items), rarity of specific OEM parts, and shipping costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will a Jeep CJ7 top fit a CJ5?
A: Generally, no. While they look similar, CJ7s are longer than CJ5s, meaning their soft tops and hardtops have different dimensions and will not properly fit a CJ5. Always ensure the top is specifically designed for a CJ5.

Q: Are original OEM CJ5 tops still available new?
A: Finding a brand-new, original OEM CJ5 top is extremely rare, if not impossible. Most "new" tops on the market are aftermarket reproductions designed to fit like the originals. Used OEM tops can be found, but their condition will vary.

Q: How long does a soft top typically last?
A: The lifespan of a soft top depends on the material quality, climate, and how well it’s maintained. A good quality vinyl or sailcloth top, with proper care, can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. In harsh climates or with neglect, it could be less.

Q: Can I install a hardtop by myself?
A: It is highly recommended to have at least two people to install or remove a hardtop due to its weight and bulk. Many owners invest in a garage hoist system for easier single-person operation.

Q: What’s better for my CJ5, a soft top or a hardtop?
A: It depends on your priorities:

• Soft Top: Better for versatility, open-air driving, lighter weight, and typically lower cost. Ideal if you frequently remove your top.
• Hard Top: Better for security, insulation, noise reduction, and all-weather comfort. Ideal for daily drivers or colder climates where the top stays on for long periods.

Q: Do all CJ5 tops come with doors?
A: No. Soft tops typically assume you have existing soft doors or half/full steel doors that fit with the top. Hardtops are usually sold as the shell only, designed to work with full hard doors. Always check the product description or ask the seller if doors are included.

Q: How do I know if a used top will fit my specific CJ5 year?
A: Always verify the exact year range the top is designed for. Some CJ5s had slightly different windshield frames or roll bars. Ask for detailed photos of the mounting points and any tags or part numbers on the top. Cross-reference with manufacturer specifications if possible.

Conclusion

Choosing the right top for your Jeep CJ5 is a crucial decision that impacts its aesthetics, functionality, and your overall driving experience. Whether you prioritize the classic open-air feel of a soft top or the secure, insulated comfort of a hardtop, the market offers a wealth of options. By understanding the different types available, carefully considering key factors like condition, material, and fitment, and knowing where to search, you can confidently navigate the "Jeep CJ5 Top For Sale" landscape. With a well-chosen and properly maintained top, your iconic CJ5 will continue to be a source of pride and adventure for years to come, ready to conquer any trail or weather condition you encounter.