Soft top Installation

Ok so after a month and a half of waiting (cause STC ran out of fabric and DHL lost my delivery) my top has arrived. The question is; in the directions it mentions that from the windshield frame to the back of the Jeep should be like 69.5 inches. If this is not the case, say I am like 67.5 or so, how does one go about shimming the windshield to increase the distance. I have read that the windshield on a 74 should almost be straight up, mine is not. I was thinking about some foam rubber on the top of the cowl where the windshield rests, but I don't want to induce any leaks. Anyone deal with this yet?

 

There should be a rubber gasket between the windshield and the cowl. If it is worn out or missing it will cause the windshiled to lean farther back.

Also I don't know how long you have had your Jeep, but a PO may have swapped a newer windshield onto it.

 

Oh I should have mentioned. The gasket is there and is not too flattened.

 

It is definitely the stock windshield for a 74.

 

I took 2 rubber bungee cords and cut the ends off of them. Layed the lengthwise across the cowl on the cab side of the defroster duct openings. This shimmed the w/s just enough and hasn't been any problem with leakage

 

I used some 1/8" aluminum stock to make shims that fit at both ends....resting on top of the rubber moulding. Also, remember you have some adjustment with the latches that secure the windshield frame.

Good luck with your search for the taillight cans. When I removed mine they were pretty beat up and rusted, but some work with a dremel tool, wire brushes and paint brought them around. Found the lenses at Peterson Manufacturing but a member also posted they are available at NAPA.

You know you might try working backwards. See what cans the lenses are designed for and see if they might be adaptable. You could even cut out the area that shines down for the license tag. I don't know about the availability of that clear lens. Might be worth a shot !!

 

I would try fitting it first. Mine was an inch under spec and it fits great. the rear bar is adjustable and may take up the slack.

Jim