What is this channel for?

I am going to install a bikini top on my 1974 CJ5 and I wonder if i need to purchase the top channel that srews in or will this channel work? If it won't what is it for?

Thanks, you guys are an invaluable resource.

Shad

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc117/jeepmarine71_2007/JEEP/0227160830_zpsqicpngjh.jpg

 

Yup. That's where a regular or bikini top will slide in. Should, at least for some tops, have a snap on the windshield frame on or just below the curve. You're good to go.

 

I see a snap on the face of your windshield frame. Mine has a snap on the sides of the frame. Can't say mine is correct or original. It works with my soft top but not with my bikini top.

 

Mine looks like what gila shows in his picture. Where the bolt is, in his picture, I have (or had) an acorn nut which retains the eye hook/bolt for old soft top rods.

 

Thanks!