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Ashley G.
I have installed this product but I cannot get the latches to hook onto the front near the windshield. It’s almost 1-2 cm away from hooking. Really not even close. How can I get this to latch?
It sounds like the fabric of your new Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop (Part # 52453-17) is very tight, preventing the windshield header latches from reaching the loops on your Jeep. This is a common issue with new soft tops and Sunriders, especially when the temperature is cooler. Here's a breakdown of what you can try to get those latches to hook:
Troubleshooting Steps:
Temperature:
Warm it up: The fabric will stretch more easily in warmer temperatures. If possible, try installing or latching the Sunrider on a warmer day or in a heated garage. You could even try parking your Jeep in the sun for a while to let the fabric soften up.
Downward Pressure:
Pull down firmly: When trying to latch, apply firm, even downward pressure on the front header of the Sunrider directly above the latching points. You might need to use both hands.
Have someone help: It can be helpful to have one person pull down on the header while the other tries to engage the latches.
Latch Handle Position:
Ensure fully open: Make sure the latch handles are in the completely open position before you try to hook them onto the windshield loops. This allows the maximum amount of hook to engage.
Check Alignment:
Door rail alignment: Double-check that the door rails are installed correctly and are seated properly in the hardtop seals. Misaligned door rails can sometimes affect the overall fit of the Sunrider. Refer to your installation instructions to verify the correct placement.
Top deck assembly: Ensure the main fabric section of the Sunrider is sitting evenly and correctly on the door rails and the rear portion of the hardtop.
Sun Visors:
Move them out of the way: Sometimes, the sun visors can slightly obstruct the latching process. Try folding them up or to the side temporarily.
Gradual Stretching:
Latch one side at a time: Try latching one side first, and then work on stretching the fabric enough to latch the other side.
Leave it partially latched (if possible): If you can get one latch to barely catch, you might try leaving it like that in a warm environment for a few hours to allow the fabric to stretch gradually. Then, try the other side again.
Inspect for Obstructions:
Check the windshield loops: Ensure there is nothing obstructing the windshield loops that the Sunrider latches hook onto.
Important Considerations:
New Fabric is Tight: It's very common for new soft tops and Sunriders to be very tight initially. The fabric needs to stretch and conform to the vehicle over time.
Avoid Excessive Force: While you need to apply firm pressure, avoid using excessive force that could damage the latches or the fabric.
Troubleshooting Steps:
Temperature:
Warm it up: The fabric will stretch more easily in warmer temperatures. If possible, try installing or latching the Sunrider on a warmer day or in a heated garage. You could even try parking your Jeep in the sun for a while to let the fabric soften up.
Downward Pressure:
Pull down firmly: When trying to latch, apply firm, even downward pressure on the front header of the Sunrider directly above the latching points. You might need to use both hands.
Have someone help: It can be helpful to have one person pull down on the header while the other tries to engage the latches.
Latch Handle Position:
Ensure fully open: Make sure the latch handles are in the completely open position before you try to hook them onto the windshield loops. This allows the maximum amount of hook to engage.
Check Alignment:
Door rail alignment: Double-check that the door rails are installed correctly and are seated properly in the hardtop seals. Misaligned door rails can sometimes affect the overall fit of the Sunrider. Refer to your installation instructions to verify the correct placement.
Top deck assembly: Ensure the main fabric section of the Sunrider is sitting evenly and correctly on the door rails and the rear portion of the hardtop.
Sun Visors:
Move them out of the way: Sometimes, the sun visors can slightly obstruct the latching process. Try folding them up or to the side temporarily.
Gradual Stretching:
Latch one side at a time: Try latching one side first, and then work on stretching the fabric enough to latch the other side.
Leave it partially latched (if possible): If you can get one latch to barely catch, you might try leaving it like that in a warm environment for a few hours to allow the fabric to stretch gradually. Then, try the other side again.
Inspect for Obstructions:
Check the windshield loops: Ensure there is nothing obstructing the windshield loops that the Sunrider latches hook onto.
Important Considerations:
New Fabric is Tight: It's very common for new soft tops and Sunriders to be very tight initially. The fabric needs to stretch and conform to the vehicle over time.
Avoid Excessive Force: While you need to apply firm pressure, avoid using excessive force that could damage the latches or the fabric.
Jesus H.
Hi, i got a 2013 rubicon with dv8 hardtop fastback, can i install the sunrider? thanx
No, these are for the factory hardtop.
Dennis C.
Can I remove my doors on my unlimited with the sunrider?
Yes, you can. Thanks for your inquiry.
Steven R.
Can i purchase the upper door rails? Someone who shal remain name less drove over mine. Gotta love kids.
Replacement Bestop part number 516.90P and 516.91P can be special ordered by phone at 800-745-6037 with a Jeep specialist. Thanks for your inquiry.
Jerry V.
Can a fly rod carrier be installed on the hard portion of the roof with the SUNRIDER openned?
It will prevent the sunrider from laying flat enough to be used for operation along with a fly rod carrier. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Brian R.
Will this sunrider work with your Quadratec interior stealth light bar on the 2007 JK unlimited? I’m not sure if it gets in the way of the front snapping in- thanks in advance.
They should work with one another. Access points for the Sunrider use are not blocked by our light bar. Thanks for your inquiry.
Tien P.
What’s the different of Twill Sunrider for Hardtop and Sunrider for hardtop in Black diamonds except price different
Sailcloth Black Diamond is slick to the touch like vinyl. Twill is thicker fabric that is a canvas feel and the finish and appearance is similar to high end sports car convertible tops. Twill holds it's color better and looks fantastic again after saturating downpours. Twill is very low maintenance and has much better longevity. Twill does also perform better with against unwanted exterior and road noise. Thanks for your inquiry.
Revel L.
While the Sunrider is installed - can the rear portion of the hardtop (the main body) be removed?
No, it cannot.
Richard A.
What holds it down when you have the sunrider open and your on the highway? Does it flap around? Does it rattle? Do you have something to strap it down? Or a strap that goes around it some how? I see the Sunrider for the 2018 and up has a strap. Can I use that 2018 model on my 2017 4 door Sahara?
Sunrider tiedown straps are included. Thanks for your inquiry.
Richard B.
Will this work if I have a roof rack installed?
Only some gutter mount back portion of hardtop racks will work. Our QRC rack is okay with it. This rack is also offered https://www.quadratec.com/p/bestop/rhino-rack-sunrider-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-jk-4-door.