Reviews for Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop for 18-25 Jeep Wrangler JL & Gladiator JT
We found the top easier to install and remove than the JK Sunrider version on our previous wrangler. However, the instructions could be better written.
This beats the hassle of removing and installing the Freedom Panels... even though they are lighter and have simpler installation on the new Wrangler JL vs. JK. You no longer have to swing the sun visors to the side to latch/unlatch, and the latches have less/no rattle in the wind when the top is open and flipped back vs. the JK version.
Everything fit properly on our top and the correct bolts were supplied for installation vs. earlier review comments. We have experienced no leaks, even with heavy rain. We had some small leaks in the front corners with the JK version.
After reading some reviews, decided to have this professionally installed. ($80.00). Given the investment, seemed like money well spent. It was. No leakage, very little discernible wind noise, flawless release. Twill is the right choice over black diamond. Pricey, but great investment.
Easy to install. Nice heavy duty canvas. Super wind-noisy on the highway compared to hard top. Really easy to open and enjoy driving with nice weather.
Easy to install, about 20 minutes. All the parts worked fine, not sure about the M8 issue noted in other review. Driven at interstate speeds without straps and no issues other than is does catch some snow; but I am in Maine. Love it much better than the T-tops as you never have to leave the seat if you’re tall enough.
Hands down the best upgrade to my JLUR period. If you like the open-air feeling you get removing the hard top freedom panels, but don't like stopping to remove / reinstall them then this is for you! If you're on vacation and struggle to find a place to put the freedom panels, this is for you! Installation is very easy (helpful if you have a 2nd person when fitting it onto the Jeep) and there are plenty of helpful videos out there to familiarize yourself with the process. Once fitted it's secured by 2 clamps in front that are VERY secure. Opening and closing is a 15 second procedure (if that long). For me it's the best of both worlds between the freedom of a soft top and the security of a hard top. And you can never go wrong purchasing from Quadratec, great prices, fast shipment and excellent customer support.
I installed this on my Jeep last year - replacing the T-tops. Best investment ever. I like the security of a hardtop - but missed the convertible part. T-tops are nice but a pain taking off and storing if on the road. This partial (over front seats) covetable top is the best investment I have made for my Jeep. Flip 2 levers, push the top back and your in convertible mode. You don’t even need to get out of your seat.
It was a very easy install, and it looks good. Tested it through a car wash and no leaks. Interior noise is a little louder with it closed, but very slightly. Flipping it open is quick and easy. When the weather warms up, I am sure I will be leaving the top open a lot. So far, it looks like a great replacement for your easy panels.
The install changed from the original Bestop video I watched (attaching the side arms). It now involves a screw, some locktite and small cable linked eyelets. In trying to get the screw attached - one locked in real tight and the other one loose. Once the locktite sets, too bad if it isn’t correct. I have no idea. Then when trying to line up those arms, the cable pulls against the hole the eyelet is sticking out of and tears the material a small bit- again, no idea if this is common but it happened. Overall, I think that portion of the putting together and install process is flawed. Except for that, the item is nice, lightweight (I’m a 55 year old woman and got it up there safely on my own) & the rest of the install was fine/easy.
I purchased Sunrider and Screen Bundle would give it a 5 star except for the Screw Binding Barrel on the Sunrider should be a threaded piece on frame which would in my opinion make installation even easier, now as for screen it is impossible to use the spring washer along with flat washer the screws are to short, this was also noted in another recent review by another purchaser of this product.
I previously had a Bestop sunrider on my 2014 Wrangler. I am familiar with installation of this unit. The new unit for my 2023 Jeep Gladiator was different
. I have two complaints. The instructions and the Quadratec video both show a "Z" hook to attach to the piece that is affixed to the side roll bar toward the back. This is not true. It is an oval attachment that must be secured by two small screw nuts that are silver in color and come in two separate bags. There are six shorter bolts and four longer to secure the unit. The four shorter bolt that attach to the roll bar sunrider assembly are almost too short. I spent over an hour trying to thread the bolts into the roll bar piece. Making these bolts an 8th of an inch longer would help in securing the unit.
One last thing, the directions that come with the sunrider and the video supplied on Quadratec's website are different concerning the installation.
I am looking forward to testing the sunrider in the rain and hope that it is as water resilient as my previous one. So far I am satisfied with the product as it gives and open air experience with the option of closing it due to sun or rain.