Installation Guide for Rugged Ridge 13723.XX Fabric Replacement Top and Doors

Quick guide from the manual

This guide covers the installation of the Rugged Ridge Fabric Replacement Top and Doors for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ. For the best results, perform the installation at a temperature above 72 F to prevent the fabric from contracting. Ensure you have a shoe horn, razor knife, and Phillips screwdriver available before starting.

Safety and Preparation

Always wear safety glasses during installation. Remove all jewelry to minimize scratches on the windows. If the fabric is wrinkled from shipping, it will relax and smooth out within a few days of installation.

Removing the Old Top

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

Installing the New Top

1. For 1997 vehicles, remove the slip-on plastic extrusion on the door surround if present.
2. Ensure center and rear bows are in the folded down position.
3. Lay the new top fabric backing side up, aligning the plastic strip with the front edge of the header.
4. Locate the center round hole in the plastic strip, install a screw to secure and center the top, then install screws in the remaining holes.
5. Wrap the fabric around the header, work the pockets over the corners, and secure with oval head screws.
6. Raise the header and bow assembly into position and snap the fabric to the rear bow.
7. Center the middle bow in the hook and loop flap. Pull the rear bow down and work the plastic strip into the vehicle retainer.
8. Close the header latches to secure the front to the windshield.
9. Fasten the hook and loop flaps around the center bow.
10. Install quarter windows and rear window using the zippers and plastic retainers.

Installing the 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.
3. Work the lower rear corner of the door frame into the pocket of the new cover.
4. Work the lower front corner and top front corner of the frame into the cover, ensuring the fabric is between the hook and loop flaps.
5. Use the tab sewn into the cover to work the last corner of the frame into the cover.
6. Reinstall the upper doors by inserting pins into the grommets in the lower door.

Care and Maintenance

• Washing: Use soap, warm water, and a soft bristle brush. Rinse with clear water.
• Zippers: Keep clean and lubricated with silicone. If a zipper opens behind the slider, use pliers to bring the sides back into parallel.
• Windows: Do not use a brush. Wash with a water-soaked cloth and mild detergent. Never wipe when dry. Do not roll in cold weather.
• Snaps: Keep clean and lubricated. If stuck, use a small flat head screwdriver to gently pry apart.