Tub Dimensions?

Are the later '76 & up CJ tubs dimensionally the same as the earlier ones? FAQ and spotters guide info leads me to believe this is true. Later w/s is the only real difference/change that would affect hardtop fitment? This would affect the door opening, specifically the angle of the upper leading edge of the door. Can a later w/s be adjusted to match the earlier (less laid back) angle? Trying to pin down the application for a hardtop. TIA

 

Yes, external dimensions are the same. Some details are different; ie I think the bow pockets are gone. The floors and rear fender houses are different.

The only way to use a older/newer top on a newer/older body is to change the windshield. It's not just the tip-back: the newer windshield also narrows from bottom to top.

 

I believe if you used the hinges that bolt to the frame from the older w/s and install in the new one that may change your angle. I'm not sure about what this will do to the seal area, it may not lay as flat as the older one? I had to change mine out older to older because the PO had cut and rewelded them to change the w/s angle (maybe for the same reason) but he got it all crooked. I didn't notice it until I mounted the windshield after I had my cage built. I panicked because i thought my cage was built wrong until further review.

That my 2 cents.