Soft Top for 63` CJ5, things to consider and recommendations

Looking to buy a Soft Top and doors for 63` CJ5. Things I should consider and recommendations?

Used/New
Type
Where to buy
Installing
Cost
etc.

 

new, best top, simple to install cost alot but are a quality product

 

X2 just put one on mine about six weeks ago. Should have done it years ago.

 

I've had a Bestop supertop for over 10 years & I love it. It's very versatile-the sides & back are removable, and the doors can be run 1/2 or full. It's relatively easy to put up & down, and it seals up pretty tight.

 

Another thing to ponder. The fabric shrinks when not installed so buying used can net it's own installation issues missing parts, different versions from the mfg., etc notwithstanding


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Thanks. Two votes for Bestop (super), any other thoughts on the matter? Trusted vendor? etc.

 

Have you considered a stock factory top which was available in full and half cab and as a convertible from full to half cab. If you can't find stock top bows and rod work there are several sources for dimensions. WeeBee Webbing & Beachwood can provide new canvas.

Here's an original standard Willys full top I had on my 60.







Here's the illustration from the Beachwood web site:

 

Hmm, the Bestop web site has either one (super or tiger) fitting a 63` CJ5, could you explain?

 

wsknettl interesting option with the canvas top, thanks for the heads up.

 

panzer will they both fit 63` CJ5, not sure about the wind shield comment from previous post?

 

Thanks for the link.

 

Peter, I put on a Tiger top on my 71 cj5 last winter. It was a really tight fit. The Best top instructions gave a measurement from the top of the window frame to the top outside edge of the back lip of the jeep tub. I don't remember what the measurement was but it did not match my cj5-mine was about 1" longer. I called them about it and they said the top would stretch on anyway. It did after the weather turned warm again, but it was a fight. I usually just take my top off in the spring and put back on in the fall, but if some one was wanting to take it on and off any time, this tiger top is a fight. Also the tiger uses door catches that mount to the body at the back of the door edge. On the old style tops the door would just latch to the rod that forms the back side panel. This new body mounted catch takes some getting used to- it tends to catch your butt when you are getting in and out. Overall the tiger is good quality and seals better than the old days. There used to be a brand called Kay-line, but I think they are gone now. They made a top about the same as a tiger.

 

Thanks for the post homersdog. I am looking at the tiger top and the super top (both from Bestop) and trying to figure out what one I would like best. They both appear to fit a 63` CJ5.

 

Just for what it is worth, I have a tiger top on my 75, While nice, my next top will be a super. I like the two part doors and zip out windows.

 

I hear you, costs a bit more, but I think the door and windows features may be worth it.

 

Kayline brand was sold and became Specialty Top Corporation (STC). STC is now defunct as well sadly as they were quality products. Basically your choices are Bestop or a canvas top like Beechwood offers. The Bestops are good quality but if you want them to install fairly easily it must be warm. Either outside or in a heated garage because the material used shrinks when it's cold.


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