Choosing The Right Soft Top For Your 2018 Jeep Wrangler Jl 4-door
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door is an iconic vehicle, built for adventure and freedom. One of the most exciting aspects of owning a Jeep is the ability to customize it, and a soft top is a popular choice for many owners.
It offers a more open-air experience than a hardtop and can be easier to store. However, selecting the right soft top for your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door can be a bit overwhelming with the many options available.
This guide will help you understand the different types, key features to consider, and popular brands to help you make an informed decision.
When you’re looking for a soft top for your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door, you’re essentially looking for a replacement for the factory top or an upgrade. The factory soft top on a JL is often a three-piece system: a main top, a rear window, and two side windows. Aftermarket options often aim to improve upon this design, offering easier installation, better durability, or enhanced features. The term “soft top” itself can refer to a few different configurations, from a full soft top that replaces all panels to a bikini top that only covers the front occupants. For the 4-door JL, we’re primarily discussing full soft tops that cover the entire cabin.
Understanding Soft Top Types For Your 2018 Jeep Wrangler Jl 4-door
Soft tops for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door come in several configurations, each offering a different level of openness and convenience. Understanding these types is the first step in finding the perfect fit for your needs.
Full Soft Tops
A full soft top is the most comprehensive option. It replaces your entire hardtop or existing soft top with a fabric enclosure. These tops typically include a main canopy, rear window, and side windows. They offer the most enclosed experience among soft tops, providing protection from the elements while still allowing for that open-air Jeep feel when fully retracted. Many full soft tops are designed for easier operation than factory tops, with some allowing for quick-release mechanisms or even convertible designs that can be partially or fully opened with minimal effort.
Bikini Tops And Cab Covers
While not a full replacement, bikini tops and cab covers are also popular soft-top accessories. A bikini top usually covers only the front occupants, offering shade and a sense of openness. Cab covers extend further back, sometimes covering the rear seats as well, but typically do not include side or rear windows, leaving those areas exposed. These are great for casual cruising on sunny days but don’t offer the same weather protection as a full soft top. For the purpose of this guide, we are focusing on full soft tops that provide complete enclosure for your 4-door JL.
Sunrider® Tops
Some manufacturers offer a variation of the full soft top known as a Sunrider® top. This design features a built-in opening panel over the front seats, similar to a sunroof. This allows you to quickly get some open-air experience without fully retracting the entire top. It’s a convenient feature for spontaneous moments when the weather is just right.
Key Features To Consider When Buying A Soft Top
When you’re investing in a soft top for your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door, several features can significantly impact your satisfaction. Looking beyond just the price tag will help you find a top that is durable, functional, and provides the best value.
Fabric Material And Durability
The fabric of the soft top is crucial for its longevity and performance. Most aftermarket soft tops are made from high-quality, multi-layer vinyl or sailcloth.
- Vinyl Tops: These are often more affordable and easier to clean. They tend to be stiffer, especially in cold weather, which can make operation slightly more difficult. However, modern vinyl formulations are quite durable and offer good protection against UV rays and water.
- Sailcloth Tops: Made from a heavier, more textured fabric, sailcloth tops offer a more premium look and feel. They are generally more durable, quieter at highway speeds due to better sound dampening, and more flexible in varying temperatures. They can be more expensive than vinyl options.
Look for tops with UV-resistant coatings and mildew-resistant treatments to ensure they hold up over time. The stitching and seams are also important; reinforced stitching can prevent tears and leaks.
Window Design And Tinting
The windows of a soft top are a significant part of the experience. Most full soft tops come with removable or zip-out windows.
- Window Material: Windows are typically made from heavy-duty vinyl or a more durable, scratch-resistant material like DOT-approved clear plastic.
- Tinting: Many soft tops come with tinted rear and side windows. This offers privacy, reduces glare, and helps keep the interior cooler by blocking some sunlight. The level of tint can vary, so check if it meets your preferences and local regulations.
- Replacement: Consider how easy it is to replace windows if they get damaged or scratched. Some brands offer individual window replacements, which is more cost-effective than replacing the entire top.
Ease Of Installation And Operation
Installing a soft top can range from relatively simple to moderately complex. Some tops are designed for DIY installation, while others might benefit from professional help, especially if they involve a more intricate frame system.
- Framework: Does the top come with its own frame, or does it use existing Jeep mounting points? Tops with integrated frames can sometimes be easier to operate and seal better.
- Retraction Mechanism: How easy is it to fold the top down and put it back up? Some tops are designed for quick, one-person operation, while others might require more effort or a second person. Look for features like spring-loaded assist mechanisms or quick-release latches.
- Stowage: When the top is down, how much space does it take up? Some tops fold neatly behind the rear seats, while others might require removal and storage elsewhere.
Noise Reduction And Sealing
A common complaint with soft tops is increased road noise compared to hardtops. However, higher-quality soft tops often incorporate features to mitigate this.
- Thicker Fabric: Denser, heavier fabric can help absorb sound.
- Tighter Seals: Well-designed seals around the windows and doors are crucial for reducing wind noise and preventing leaks.
- Frame Design: A well-engineered frame can pull the fabric taut, reducing flapping and noise.
Compatibility And Fitment
Ensure the soft top you choose is specifically designed for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door. While many aftermarket tops are designed to fit well, slight variations can occur. Check reviews for comments on fitment and any necessary modifications. The JL generation has different door surrounds and mounting points than previous Wranglers, so compatibility is key.
Popular Soft Top Brands For The 2018 Jeep Wrangler Jl 4-door
Several reputable brands offer high-quality soft tops for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door. Each has its strengths, catering to different budgets and priorities.
Bestop
Bestop is one of the most well-known names in Jeep soft tops. They offer a range of options for the JL, including their popular Trektop and Sunrider models.
- Bestop Trektop NX Glide: This is a popular choice for the JL 4-door. It’s a frameless soft top that can be easily folded back for an open-air experience or fully retracted. It features a glide channel system for easy opening and closing. The fabric is typically a durable sailcloth material. The benefit of a frameless design is its sleek profile and reduced bulk when stored. Installation is generally straightforward, though it can take a couple of hours.
- Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop: If you have a factory hardtop and want to add the open-air feel without fully removing it, the Sunrider for Hardtop is an option. It replaces the front panel of your hardtop with a fold-back fabric section. This isn’t a full soft top replacement but a modification. However, for a full soft top, Bestop’s other offerings are more relevant.
- Bestop Supertop Ultra: This is another excellent full soft top option. It comes with a complete frame and is designed for easy operation. It offers a very snug fit and good sealing. The Supertop Ultra is known for its durability and weather resistance.
Smittybilt
Smittybilt is another popular brand, often offering a good balance of features and price.
- Smittybilt CC2: This is a popular choice for a more budget-friendly full soft top. It typically uses a durable vinyl fabric. The design is generally straightforward, and while it might not offer the same level of noise reduction or ease of operation as higher-end options, it provides good protection and the desired open-air feel at a competitive price point. Installation can be a bit more involved than some premium tops.
Pavement Ends
Pavement Ends is a brand often associated with Bestop, offering more budget-friendly alternatives.
- Pavement Ends Sun Fast: This is a popular option for those looking for a quality soft top without the premium price tag. It usually comes in a sailcloth-like fabric and offers a good fit. It’s designed to be a direct replacement for the factory soft top and often includes all necessary hardware for installation.
Rugged Ridge
Rugged Ridge also offers soft top solutions for the JL.
- Rugged Ridge Eclipse: This is a frameless soft top that offers a sleek, modern look. It often features tinted windows and is designed for relatively easy installation and operation. Like other frameless designs, it folds down compactly.
Installation Guide: A General Overview
While specific installation procedures vary by brand and model, most aftermarket soft tops for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL 4-door follow a similar pattern. It’s always recommended to consult the manufacturer’s instructions specific to your chosen top.
Step 1: Preparation
- Gather Tools: You’ll typically need basic hand tools like a socket set, wrenches, screwdrivers, and possibly a rubber mallet.
- Clear the Area: Work in a clean, dry space, preferably out of direct sunlight, as the fabric can be more pliable and easier to work with when warm, but too much sun can make it difficult to stretch.
- Remove Old Top: If you are replacing an existing soft top or hardtop, carefully remove all panels, seals, and hardware. Keep track of any screws or brackets that might be reusable.
Step 2: Install The Frame (if Applicable)
- Many full soft tops come with their own internal frame. Assemble this frame according to the instructions.
- Attach the frame to the Jeep’s body tub, often using existing mounting points or specific brackets provided with the kit. Ensure the frame is securely fastened and sits flush.
Step 3: Attach The Fabric Canopy
- Drape the main fabric canopy over the frame.
- Begin attaching the fabric to the frame and the Jeep body. This usually involves sliding channels, securing Velcro strips, or fastening snaps.
- Pro Tip: For frameless tops, you’ll often start by attaching the front of the fabric to the windshield header and then working your way back, securing it along the sides and rear.
Step 4: Install Windows
- If your soft top has zip-out or removable windows, install them now.
- Ensure the zippers are clean and lubricated for smooth operation.
- Align the windows properly within their channels or mounting points. Some windows might have clips or Velcro to secure them further.
Step 5: Adjust And Seal
- Once the top and windows are installed, go around and check all attachment points.
- Ensure the fabric is pulled taut to minimize wrinkles and improve sealing.
- Close all doors and check the seals. You may need to adjust the top or door latches for a snug fit.
- Open and close the top a few times to get a feel for the mechanism and ensure everything operates smoothly.
Common Installation Mistakes To Avoid
- Rushing: Take your time. Rushing can lead to misaligned parts, torn fabric, or improper sealing.
- Over-tightening: Be careful not to overtighten screws or bolts, which can strip threads or crack plastic components.
- Incorrect Alignment: Ensure the top is centered and aligned before fully tightening all fasteners. Misalignment can cause stress on the fabric and hardware, leading to premature wear or leaks.
- Ignoring Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions. They are tailored to the design of that particular soft top.
- Working in Extreme Temperatures: Very cold weather can make fabric stiff and difficult to stretch, while very hot weather can make it overly saggy. Mild temperatures are best.
Maintenance Tips For Your Soft Top
To ensure your soft top lasts for years and continues to look great, proper maintenance is essential.
Regular Cleaning
- Washing: Use a mild soap or a dedicated soft top cleaner and cool water. Avoid harsh detergents, abrasive brushes, or power washers, as these can damage the fabric and coatings. Clean the fabric regularly to prevent dirt and grime from becoming deeply ingrained.
- Windows: Clean the vinyl or plastic windows with a soft cloth and a specialized vinyl cleaner or protectant. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, which can cloud and damage the material. Microfiber cloths are ideal.
Protecting The Fabric
- Waterproofing and UV Protection: After cleaning, consider applying a fabric protectant spray. These products help repel water, resist stains, and protect the fabric from UV damage, which can cause fading and deterioration over time. Reapply as recommended by the product manufacturer, typically once or twice a year.
- Mold and Mildew Prevention: Ensure the top is completely dry before folding it down for storage. If you live in a humid climate or often park under trees, consider using a mold and mildew inhibitor spray.
Storage
- Folding: When folding the top down, ensure it is clean and dry. Fold it neatly along the creases to avoid creating permanent wrinkles.
- Winter Storage: If you plan to store your Jeep for an extended period, especially through winter, consider removing the soft top entirely if possible. Clean it thoroughly and store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a storage bag. If you cannot remove it, ensure it is clean, dry, and protected with a fabric protectant. Covering the Jeep with a breathable car cover is also recommended.
Dealing With Scratches And Small Tears
- Scratches: Minor scratches on vinyl windows can sometimes be buffed out using a plastic polish designed for automotive use.
- Tears: Small tears can often be repaired using a soft top repair kit, which typically includes patches and adhesive. For larger tears, professional repair might be necessary.
