Installation Instructions for Rugged Ridge Fabric Replacement Top and Doors

Quick Guide and Installation Tips

For the best results, install the top at a temperature above 72°F (22°C). Below this temperature, the fabric may contract, making it difficult to fit. It is normal for the fabric to have wrinkles when first removed from the shipping carton; these will relax and disappear within a few days. Always wear safety glasses during installation.

Tools Needed

• Shoe horn
• Safety glasses
• Razor knife
• Phillips screwdriver

Removing the Old Top

1. Remove quarter windows and the rear window. Remove the metal tailgate bar from the bottom of the rear window and set it aside for reuse.
2. Release the plastic strips sewn to the top above the doors by pulling down and out.
3. Release the latch securing the header to the windshield.
4. Release the rear corners of the top by pulling down and out to release the plastic strip from the retainer.
5. Unfasten the flap around the middle bow and unsnap the fabric from the rear bow.
6. Collapse the bow assembly onto the tailgate. Remove the screws fastening the corners of the header and set them aside.
7. Flip the top fabric back to expose the plastic strip along the edge. Remove the 8 or 14 screws securing the fabric to the header and remove the old top.

Installing the New Top

1. 1997 Vehicles: If your vehicle has a slip-on plastic extrusion on the door surround, remove it by pulling down.
2. Ensure center and rear bows are in the folded down position. Lay the new fabric backing side up, aligning the plastic strip with the front edge of the header.
3. Locate the center round hole in the plastic strip and install a screw to secure and center the top. Install screws in the remaining holes.
4. Wrap the fabric around the header and drape it over the tailgate. Work the pockets in the fabric over the corners of the header and secure with an oval head screw in each corner.
5. Raise the header and bow assembly towards the windshield. Snap the fabric to the rear bow (6 snaps total).
6. Ensure the center bow is centered in the hook and loop flap. Pull down on the rear bow and work the plastic sewn to the rear corner into the vehicle retainer.
7. Close the header latches to secure the front of the top to the windshield.
8. Wrap and fasten the hook and loop flaps inside the top around the center bow.
9. Install quarter windows and rear window using the zipper and plastic retainer channels.

Installing New Door Covers

1. Remove fabric upper doors from the vehicle. Use a razor knife to cut stitches on old door covers and remove them.
2. Unzip windows and separate hook and loop fasteners. Lay the cover on a flat surface, outside facing down.
3. Work the lower rear corner of the door frame into the pocket of the cover, followed by the lower front corner and top front corner.
4. Use the tab sewn into the cover to work the last corner of the frame into the cover. Ensure the top edge is straight and fasten hook and loop strips tightly.
5. Reinstall upper doors by inserting pins into the grommets in the lower door.

Folding the Top Down

1. Remove quarter panels and rear window.
2. Release the front of the top from the windshield. Raise the front of the deck and collapse the rear bows.
3. Tuck the plastic strips above the door opening and the stay pad on the rear bow inside the bows. Wrap the fabric around the bows and tuck the rear legs of the top under the bows.

Care and Maintenance

• Washing: Use soap, warm water, and a soft bristle brush. Rinse thoroughly.
• Zippers: Keep clean and lubricated with silicone. If a zipper opens behind the slider, use pliers to gently squeeze the slider sides back into parallel.
• Water Seepage: Apply 3M Scotchgard to the inside of seams. Repair rips with Bondex iron-on patches.
• Snaps: Keep clean and lubricated with silicone. If stuck, use a small flat-head screwdriver to gently pry apart.
• Windows: Do not use brushes. Wash with a water-soaked cloth and mild detergent. Never wipe dry. Do not roll sides or rear window in cold weather.