MikeekiM

There's an OEM hardtop I am looking at that "includes rear security brackets and a defrost harness".

Is this everything I need to install the hardtop? What else do I need to buy (if any) and where is the best place to buy online?

mongomery1234

You'll need front hardtop latches that go where the soft top ones used to and side ones I believe.

mongomery1234

Check the classifieds for both I think I've seen them recently.

MikeekiM

So other than the rear, side, and front latches, along with the defroster harness, all the proper rubber gaskets and stuff should just be included with the main roof component?

The only reason I ask is because I saw a hardtop component kit online with all kinds of wiring stuff for about $500, and I was wondering if I needed any of that stuff...

Thanks!

NNY S2k

You should be all set.
Levi

cosmomiller

I hope I am not hijacking this thread but I have a few follow up questions. I thought the hardtop was just placed on the car, defrost harness hooked up, back hardware engaged and the soft top latches worked for the hardtop. I guess that is not the case. When it came time to remove, just get two people, unlatch the front and reconnect the defrost and you are good to go. Yes? No?I have never seen a hardtop in person hence the questions.

Being in California I never thought I would want a hardtop but as the car ages, I am thinking it might be nice to have.

MikeekiM

Not hijacking at all... Answers to your questions help me too!

The other question I have is whether the long term installation damages the car paint...

I installed a moonroof visor on another car years ago, and the rubber gasket wore the paint where it contacted the car; AND the paint on the inside of the visor was a different color than the rest of the car because the UV rays hit the paint differently. Of course, this only happened and was noticeable when I removed the visor...which I only did when I did my annual full detail.

NNY S2k

You thought correctly.
Levi

NNY S2k

I have been putting mine on/taking it off for 13 seasons now, hasn't messed up the paint at all.
Levi