Windshield Frame And Top ?

I hope this in the right place as it’s not really tech. If it needs to move please do so if you like admins.

As some of you know I am looking at a 62’ cj5 which I hope to pickup this weekend.
I have a bran new soft top setup in storage for a 76-up, here’s the question.... would It be was to fit a newer windshield frame or to just buy another new top?

Question part 2 is any of the 76-up kit usable on my Jeep? Ie. doors hardware and such.

Thanks for putting up with all my questions.

 

No, the later Jeeps have the windshield leaned back more. I had a Bestop for an early Jeep CJ5, NOS, my friend had a newer CJ5, the top would not work on his Jeep, I sold to a friend with a 64 and it fit perfect.

 

Thanks, I knew there was a difference but i thought i had read somewhere you could just change the windshield frame.... was hoping there was a way.

 

Oh ok is it a bolt on deal or do I have to fab a bunch? Could always keep a separate frame for when I need the top. Seems like that may be a bit cheaper than writing off a top that’s never even been un boxed

 

There are two differences between the CJ early/intermediates and those after 1975. First, the later models windshield frames are narrower at the top of the frame, and the frame leans back at a greater angle.
With some work, things can get cobbled together, but it still won't fit right.
-Donny

 

You sure Howard? I didn't think so.

I thought you had to transfer everything to fit the newer windshield - hinges, frame, glass, latches. The hinges don't fit the older body without some persuasion. The cowl vent does not match but I think it will work.

It is indeed true that you need to match the top to the windshield. The newer windshield tilts back more and the glass is trapezoidal (early glass is rectangular-ish).

The wipers in the '76 and newer windshield are much better than the original wipers on the '62, and the visibility should be better too (curved top to the newer glass).

 

Tops are expensive.... I'd try to find a later frame and make it work.

 

That’s my thoughts short of putting it up for sale to offset the cost of a new top.

 

I had a '72 CJ5 with a rusted out windshield frame. A friend gave me a complete '78 frame assembly (with the narrower top portion), and it fit right on my original base hinges. A home made bikini top didn't care about the differences.
-Donny

 

I think you would need to use the later windshield hinges because they incorporate the upper door hinge for the later year soft top door. Also you would want to get the lower door hinges off of the donor jeep.