Top Options - Bestop or Whitco Replica

I'm doing some pondering. I've still got quite a ways to go before I even consider putting a top back on the jeep, but I'm already thinking about my top options. I found an original Whitco this past summer, and ran it up until now. Unfortunately, it leaks everywhere, and the windows are pretty scratched too. I know these are not available anywhere - especially in white. I'm not doing a stock restoration, but the white top sure has a lot of character. My thought was to take the top/doors down to a boat canvas shop and have them make me a new one. But then again, the Whitco didn't always sit right either.

What are the pros/cons of getting a replica of my Whitco vs a Bestop Supertop? If I did that, I would probably go with a black denim.

Here's the Whitco -




On a side note....should I keep the side mount tire carrier or go for a bumper mounted swing out?

 

That top definitely has character. Personally I would go with bestop but I am biased. My jeep came with a brand new bestop and it is amazing. I love it. But really it is going to be what you prefer.

As far a spare tire mount I would see about a rear mounted option.

 

I recommend the supertop.

I love the side mounted tire. I know there are members with horror scenarios of tires being ripped off and what not. As long as you remember it's there, and act accordingly, you'll be fine.
Oh and, if other people drive it with the tire side mounted, make sure they don't forget it's there! The owner of the 4wd shop I had my trans checked out at nearly tore my jerry can off the side of my Jeep, and he was the one who told me I'd do that!

 

I went with the Tiger top in 2010. It did was not an easy fit, but once I got it on it was okay. If I had the money I would have gone with the super top.

As far as the tire mount, I have been one of the whiners about the side mount carrier. It is just voicing my experiences, I really couldn't care less what others do. I have had my cj5 since 1978. When I first took it four wheeling it didn't take long for me to wipe it against the tree and damage the fender. Stock early CJ's didn't have right side rear views, so it is easy to forget the tire. It is not a horror scenario, just an event that is annoying. When you hare having fun and others are in the jeep laughing and having good time it is easy to forget it is there. When it happens you back up and move along.
Later I re-mounted the spare in the rear as a precaution.

As long as I remember spaghetti sauce can drip while eating it and it causes stains on shirts, its' okay to eat it. But as a precaution I don't eat spaghetti with nice white shirts, and I use a napkin. Same concept. A precaution.

 

With your current color I think tan would look good. If you plan to change colors I would get what you like that goes with the new color of the Jeep. I have heard or read that some shops can replace the windows so that might be an option. What exactly is leaking? Anything you might get repaired? Might be cheaper than a new top.

 

I have a supertop & I love it-especially the versatility. The 2 piece doors and zip out side & rear windows allow for many different configurations. I think it's only available in black now. I love the look of the white top, but unless you're going for a full resto I'd get the Supertop.

 

id vote keep the old one or get a replica...the best top ive got (2nd one under warranty)fits poorly the doors dont appear to have enough material on the bottom and have already ripped by the channel on the ws frame, at least this set sorta fits....

 

Meguiars also makes good soft top window cleaner and polish, or did. I've been using the same two bottles for over 12-14 years with very good results.


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