If I'm buying a hardtop to put on my car which will be gutted and caged, do I still need all the extra install parts? Or, will the bare top work withot them?
OEM hardtop from HTG is $4k including shipping and install kit, where can I find one cheaper?

 

you're definitely going to need the installation kit, otherwise you wont have a way to attach the top to the car.......

 

Couldn't I just have brackets made and bolt it down at four points?

 

Ok, you definitely don't want hardware as the top MUST be bolted in and be removable with tools only. Your cage fabricator will do this for you.

Second you don't want a new top!! By a used one, cheap as you can find. A $4K top is no faster than a $2K top!! Paint isn't an issue, there isn't enough paint to worry about, it would take you an hour to sand it all off. The inside of the car will need painting anyway, just do the top at the same time.

 

Erik, can you explain this further?

I am getting the rear catchers swapped out for custom hardware made by Ronnie, but not the front latches.

Should I get the front side mounted permanently as well? What are the benefits?

Thanks.

 

You aren't getting a cage so you won't be racing. If you want to race the top needs to be bolted on (besides you won't be able to operate any of the latches anyway since there will be tubing everywhere the latches go).

10.4 DETACHABLE PANELS
Detachable Hardtops, Panels and Detachable Doors (e.g., Lotus 7 doors) shall be removed or be
permanently attached in a manner requiring tools for removal.

 

oh I see, full race car would require the top to be perm mounted I guess, so the factory mounting equipment wouldnt make much sense, my bad

if you're going that far, get the mooncraft hardtop, it loves being mounted to a cage

 

For Sale forum or your local for sale forum. I got mine for $1100 CAD ($900 USD). It was damaged, repaired and poorly repainted (ie. worthless to anyone wanting it for a street car but AOK for me )

 

^^^ Sounds like a great deal!

 

just keep a eye on craigslist or the for sale forum.
I got a very nice one for 1900 perfect paint with latches but no brackets for the car side in the rear.
if you find one with brackets you can sell them.
I know rylan uses the stock rear mounts but the front are bolted in with metal straps.