Jeep YJ Tops For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting and Customizing Your Square-Headlight Icon typestruckssale.com
The Jeep Wrangler YJ, produced from 1987 to 1995, holds a special place in the hearts of off-road enthusiasts and classic vehicle collectors alike. Known for its distinctive square headlights – a departure from its CJ predecessors and a feature not seen in subsequent Wrangler generations – the YJ embodies rugged simplicity and timeless appeal. A critical component that defines both its utility and aesthetic is its top. Whether you’re looking to replace a worn-out original, upgrade for better comfort and security, or simply want to change the look of your ride, the market for Jeep YJ tops for sale offers a diverse range of options.
Finding the right top for your YJ is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in your vehicle’s protection, versatility, and overall enjoyment. The right top can transform your open-air cruiser into a weather-sealed fortress, or vice versa, adapting your YJ to any season or adventure. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about navigating the market for Jeep YJ tops, from understanding the different types available to practical buying tips and installation advice.
Jeep YJ Tops For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting and Customizing Your Square-Headlight Icon
Understanding Jeep YJ Tops: A Legacy of Versatility
The Jeep YJ was designed with modularity in mind, offering owners the flexibility to switch between various top configurations. This adaptability is one of the hallmarks of the Wrangler lineage. Over decades of use, however, original tops can suffer from wear and tear – faded fabric, cracked windows, rusted frames, or damaged fiberglass. This natural degradation, coupled with owners’ desires for customization or enhanced functionality, keeps the market for new and used YJ tops vibrant.
Choosing a top isn’t just about finding something that fits; it’s about aligning the top with your lifestyle. Do you crave the open-air freedom of a summer day, or do you need maximum protection from harsh winters? Is security a top priority, or is ease of removal more important? Understanding these personal needs will guide your search.
Types of Jeep YJ Tops Available for Sale
The market for YJ tops primarily consists of two main categories: soft tops and hard tops, with several variations within each.
1. Soft Tops
Soft tops are the quintessential Jeep accessory, offering unparalleled open-air freedom. They typically consist of a fabric skin (vinyl or canvas) supported by a metal frame, with clear plastic windows.
- Standard Full Soft Tops: These are designed to enclose the entire cabin, providing protection from the elements while retaining the ability to be folded down or removed.
- Benefits: Lightweight, easy to store (when folded), provides the classic Jeep open-air experience, generally more affordable than hard tops.
- Variations: Some feature zippered windows, others have roll-up windows. "Sailcloth" versions offer improved durability and noise reduction. Frameless soft tops are a modern alternative that use the roll bar for support, offering a cleaner look.
- Considerations: Less secure than hard tops, can be noisier at highway speeds, plastic windows can scratch or haze over time, less insulation against temperature extremes.
2. Hard Tops
Hard tops provide a more permanent and secure enclosure for your YJ, offering benefits akin to a traditional vehicle. They are typically made from fiberglass or composite materials.
- Full Hard Tops: These are rigid, one-piece or two-piece (front/rear sections) shells that replace the soft top entirely.
- Benefits: Superior security, better insulation (sound and temperature), improved visibility (often with glass windows and rear defrosters/wipers), more durable in harsh weather, gives the YJ a more "SUV-like" feel.
- Variations: Some come with tinted windows, headliners, or special finishes. Half-cab hard tops exist for YJs converted into pick-up style vehicles.
- Considerations: Heavy and difficult to remove/install (often requiring two people or a hoist), requires dedicated storage space when off, generally more expensive. Finding new YJ hard tops from major manufacturers is rare; the used market is dominant.
3. Specialty and Minimalist Tops
Beyond the main two, several other options cater to specific needs or aesthetic preferences.
- Bikini Tops / Bimini Tops: These are small, minimalist tops that cover only the front passenger compartment, primarily offering sun shade. They are perfect for warm, sunny days but provide no protection from rain or dust.
- Safari Tops: Similar to bikini tops but extend further back, offering shade to rear passengers as well.
- Duster Covers: These covers enclose the rear cargo area when the top is off, offering some protection for gear.
- Fastback/Slant-back Soft Tops: These offer a more aerodynamic or sporty appearance compared to the traditional square-back design.
Key Considerations When Buying a Jeep YJ Top
Purchasing a YJ top requires careful thought to ensure you get the best value and functionality for your needs.
- Condition (Especially for Used Tops):
- Soft Tops: Inspect for rips, tears, frayed stitching, faded fabric, and the clarity/condition of plastic windows. Check zippers, snaps, and Velcro for functionality. Ensure the frame (bows, door surrounds, tailgate bar) is intact, not rusted, and complete.
- Hard Tops: Look for cracks, chips, and spiderwebbing in the fiberglass. Check window seals, the rear window hinge and latch mechanisms, and any weatherstripping for leaks. Confirm all mounting points are solid.
- Material Quality: Premium soft tops (e.g., Bestop’s Sailcloth) offer better durability, noise reduction, and a longer lifespan than basic vinyl options. For hard tops, ensure the fiberglass is not overly brittle or poorly repaired.
- Fitment and Compatibility: All YJ tops (1987-1995) are generally interchangeable. However, specific hardware requirements vary. Always confirm the top is indeed for a YJ.
- Hardware Included/Required: This is critical. Many used tops are sold without essential hardware like door surrounds, tailgate bars, windshield channels, or frame bows. Buying these separately can significantly increase the total cost. A complete kit (top + all necessary hardware) is ideal.
- Installation Difficulty: Soft tops are generally a moderate DIY project, though frameless tops can be simpler. Hard tops are heavy and often require two people or a hoist for safe removal and installation.
- Budget: New soft tops can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Used soft tops are significantly cheaper but come with condition risks. New hard tops are rare and expensive, while used ones command premium prices due to demand.
- Intended Use: Will your YJ be a daily driver, an off-road beast, or a weekend cruiser? Your usage dictates the best top choice. For extreme off-roading, a soft top is less likely to be damaged by tree branches. For winter driving, a hard top is superior.
- Security and Noise: Hard tops offer better security against theft and significantly reduce road noise, making for a more comfortable ride. Soft tops, while convenient, are less secure and noisier.
Where to Find Jeep YJ Tops For Sale
The market for YJ tops is diverse, encompassing both new aftermarket options and a robust used components scene.
- New Retailers & Online Stores: Major aftermarket manufacturers like Bestop, Smittybilt, Rugged Ridge, and Crown Automotive still produce new soft tops and associated hardware for the YJ. Websites like Quadratec, Morris 4×4 Center, and Amazon are excellent places to find new options.
- Online Marketplaces: eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist are treasure troves for used YJ tops. Be cautious and thorough in your inspection when buying from these platforms.
- Jeep Forums & Clubs: Dedicated online forums (e.g., JeepForum.com, WranglerForum.com) and local Jeep clubs often have "for sale" sections where members sell parts. This can be a great way to find well-maintained used tops from fellow enthusiasts.
- Used Parts Dealers/Salvage Yards: Less common for complete tops, but you might find specific hardware or a salvageable hard top here.
Tips for a Successful Purchase and Installation
- Do Your Homework: Before buying, research specific brands and models. Read reviews, watch installation videos on YouTube, and understand what’s involved.
- Inspect Thoroughly (Used Tops): If buying in person, take your time. If buying online, request detailed photos and videos of every angle, especially showing any wear, damage, or missing components. Ask specific questions about leaks, window clarity, and hardware completeness.
- Verify Compatibility: While YJ tops are generally interchangeable, ensure you’re not accidentally buying a top for a CJ or TJ.
- Budget for the "Extras": Factor in the cost of any missing hardware, weatherstripping, or installation tools you might need. Consider a soft top cleaning kit or plastic window polish for maintenance.
- DIY Installation:
- Soft Tops: Read the instructions meticulously. Lay out all components. It’s often easier to install a soft top on a warm day, as the fabric will be more pliable. Patience is key.
- Hard Tops: Always recruit a helper (or two!). Consider investing in a garage hoist or a hard top cart for easier removal, installation, and storage.
- Maintenance: Regularly clean and condition your soft top fabric and windows to extend their life. Inspect weatherstripping and seals on both soft and hard tops periodically and replace them if they show signs of wear to prevent leaks.
Challenges and Solutions
Even with careful planning, some common challenges can arise when dealing with YJ tops.
- Challenge: Finding a Complete Soft Top Kit. Many used soft tops are sold without the crucial door surrounds, bows, or tailgate bar, which can be expensive to source separately.
- Solution: Prioritize buying a complete kit, even if it costs a bit more upfront. If buying piecemeal, research the cost of individual hardware components before committing to the top. Aftermarket hardware kits are available new.
- Challenge: Faded or Hazy Soft Top Windows. The plastic windows on soft tops are prone to UV damage, scratching, and hazing.
- Solution: Use specialized plastic window cleaner and polish (never glass cleaner or ammonia-based products). For severely damaged windows, many soft top skins allow for window replacement, or you can purchase a new replacement skin (fabric only) if your frame is still good.
- Challenge: Leaks. A common complaint, especially with older tops.
- Solution: Inspect all weatherstripping around doors, windows, and the top’s contact points with the body. Replace worn seals. Ensure the top is properly seated and latched. For soft tops, confirm proper tensioning of the fabric. Some leaks can be solved with RTV silicone sealant in specific problem areas.
- Challenge: Noise (Soft Tops). Soft tops are inherently noisier than hard tops.
- Solution: Ensure the top is installed tightly and all components are secure to minimize flapping. Aftermarket insulation kits can be added to the interior for some noise reduction.
- Challenge: Hard Top Storage. Their bulk and weight make storing a hard top a significant consideration.
- Solution: Invest in a ceiling hoist system for your garage, a rolling hard top cart, or designate a clear, safe space in your garage or shed.
Estimated Price Table for Jeep YJ Tops For Sale
Please note that prices are estimates and can vary significantly based on brand, condition (new vs. used), completeness (with or without hardware), and seller.
| Top Type | Condition | Estimated Price Range (USD) | Key Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Soft Top | New | $400 – $1,200+ | Complete kit (fabric, windows, frame, hardware). Bestop, Smittybilt, Rugged Ridge are popular brands. Higher end for sailcloth or premium materials. |
| Used | $150 – $600 | Price highly dependent on fabric condition, window clarity, and completeness of hardware. Inspect carefully. | |
| Full Hard Top | New | $1,500 – $3,000+ | Very rare to find truly "new" YJ hardtops from major manufacturers; often custom or New Old Stock (NOS). |
| Used | $500 – $1,500 | Highly sought after. Price depends on condition (cracks, leaks, windows), color, and completeness of mounting hardware. Often sold locally due to size. | |
| Bikini Top (Sunshade) | New | $50 – $150 | Minimalist top for sun protection. Typically requires a windshield channel. |
| Used | $20 – $80 | Simple, often sold without a header channel. | |
| Safari Top | New | $100 – $300 | Extends further back than a bikini top, offering more shade. May require specific header. |
| Used | $40 – $150 | Similar considerations to bikini tops. | |
| Frameless Soft Top | New | $500 – $1,000+ | Modern design, cleaner look, uses roll bar for support. |
| Used | $200 – $500 | Can be harder to find used compared to traditional soft tops. | |
| Replacement Soft Top Skin | New | $200 – $600 | Fabric and windows only; designed to reuse existing soft top frame and hardware. |
| Used | $50 – $250 | If your frame is good but the fabric is worn. Check window condition carefully. | |
| Soft Top Hardware Kits (Complete) | New | $200 – $600+ | Door surrounds, bows, tailgate bar, latches, etc. Essential if converting from hard top or replacing missing parts. |
| Used | $100 – $300 | Can be bought piecemeal or as a full set. Check for rust and completeness. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Jeep YJ Tops For Sale
Q1: What years of Jeep YJ do these tops fit?
A1: All Jeep Wrangler YJ models, produced from 1987 to 1995, share the same body dimensions for tops. Therefore, any top specifically advertised for a "Jeep YJ" should fit all model years within that range.
Q2: Can I put a soft top on my YJ if it originally came with a hard top?
A2: Yes, absolutely! However, you will need to purchase all the necessary soft top hardware, including the soft top frame (bows), door surrounds, windshield channel, and tailgate bar, in addition to the soft top fabric itself.
Q3: Can I put a hard top on my YJ if it originally came with a soft top?
A3: Yes, you can. You will need to acquire a YJ hard top and ensure you have the appropriate mounting bolts and rear tailgate bar/latch mechanism that come with the hard top. No additional frame is needed.
Q4: Are YJ tops interchangeable with CJ, TJ, or JK/JL Wrangler tops?
A4: No. Jeep YJ tops are unique to the 1987-1995 YJ model. CJ, TJ, JK, and JL Wranglers have different dimensions, body lines, and mounting points, making their tops incompatible with a YJ.
Q5: How do I clean my YJ soft top windows to prevent hazing?
A5: Use a specialized plastic window cleaner specifically designed for soft top windows (e.g., Bestop’s cleaner/conditioner). Apply with a soft microfiber cloth, wiping gently in a straight line, not circles. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, glass cleaner, or abrasive cloths, as these will damage the plastic.
Q6: What’s better for a YJ: a soft top or a hard top?
A6: It depends entirely on your priorities.
- Soft Top: Best for open-air driving, easy removal/storage, and classic Jeep feel. Less secure and provides less insulation.
- Hard Top: Best for security, noise reduction, weather insulation, and a more "car-like" driving experience. Heavy, difficult to remove/store, and generally more expensive.
Q7: Is it difficult to install a Jeep YJ top myself?
A7: Soft top installation is generally a moderate DIY project, requiring patience and following instructions carefully. It often takes 1-3 hours for a first-timer. Hard top installation is more challenging due to its weight and bulk, typically requiring two people or a hoist for safe handling.
Q8: Where can I find replacement parts for my existing YJ top (e.g., zippers, windows, frame pieces)?
A8: Many major aftermarket retailers (like Quadratec, Morris 4×4 Center) sell replacement soft top skins (fabric and windows only), individual hardware pieces (door surrounds, bows), and even replacement zippers or window kits. For hard tops, replacement windows or seals might be found through specialized Jeep parts suppliers or the used market.
Concluding Summary
The iconic Jeep YJ remains a beloved vehicle, and its top plays a pivotal role in defining its character and utility. Whether you’re seeking the open-air thrill of a soft top, the secure comfort of a hard top, or a minimalist solution for sunny days, the market for Jeep YJ tops for sale offers a wealth of options. By understanding the different types, considering crucial factors like condition and hardware, and knowing where to look, you can make an informed decision that enhances your YJ ownership experience. With the right top, your square-headlight legend will continue to serve you faithfully, adapting to every adventure and preserving its legacy for years to come.