New "Cab Top" - not Cal Tops! (LONG)

[jeepmonkey]

Anybody get the new Quadratec catalog? There is a "Cab top" on page 31 that look like California Tops $450 model, but it is only $120 (+ tonneau for $75). It is due for release late this spring.

One problem - it's made by Rock Crusher (aka Steel Horse).

I wonder if it uses the factory winshield clamper thing off the factory soft top?

Here is what it says...

Encose the cab of your '97-'01 Wrangler with the Rock Crusher Cab Top. This soft top style enclosure attaches to the existing factory soft top hardware and roll bar. Includes a behind the seat curtain to keep the front seat area sealed tight and free from wind and foul weather. Rear curtain easily zips in or out depending on how much ventilation you need. Also features a handy rear door that zips open providing convenient access to the rear strage area. The Cab Top connects to the tonneau Boot Top (sold separately) with durable hook and loop fasteners giving your '97 - '01 Wranler a unique look and decent weather protection. This is the perfect addition for those on or off road adventures. Available in black or spice.

It's pretty tempting though. I mean, you could buy a couple of them before you would reach the cost of California Tops. It has a one year warranty.

Here is a picture of it from Quatratec's softop area (http://www.quadratec.com/cgi-bin/sgdynamo.exe?HTNAME=jeep/jeep_tops.html) of their site. If you go there the link is on the right hand side by Rock Crusher.

http://www.quadratec.com/profiles/jeep/rockcrusher/cab_top.gif


I don't know if I'll be the test monkey or not since it doen't appear to fit that tight. I wish Bestop would make one of these! Here is an email I sent to Bestop a little earlier when I first saw this top.

Bestop,

I wrote an email to you guys about a year ago inquiring whether or not you had any plans to make a weather tight version of your bikini top + windbreaker + tonneau cover set up. I referenced a company called California Tops located in Canada that makes such a set up. If you are curious it's at http://www.californtiatops.com. At that time you said you had no plans of making one. I never ordered a California Tops model because the company is shady and screwed a friend of mine. I have since been holding out for somebody else to make one.

Since then, Steel Horse (now called Rock Crusher) caught on to the idea because there is a big demand for these style tops. They now make one, and you can see it in the latest Quatratec catalog, or on their site at http://www.quatratec.com. (I have attached a picture of you)

I am now asking again whether or not you plan on making one. I really don't like Steel Horse - they make crappy products. You guys are first rate and I would love to see you make one.

There is a very active forum on the internet called Jeeps Unlimited. There are over 8000 members on this board and a lot of them would like to see you make one too.

Here is the latest thread on jeepsunlimited.com regarding this:

http://forums.jeepsunlimited.com/ubb/Forum23/HTML/000552.html

My name on this BBS is jeepmonkey. If you are going to make one, then I will hold off and wait. If not, I will order the Rock Crusher one and hope it holds up. I will be posting your reply to the thread referenced above, since I am sure many people would wait and buy a Bestop if you plan on offering one.

I suggest you guys make one before you miss out on an area that has a lot of demand! EVERYBODY knows you make the best products.

Thanks for your time,
Dan Cunningham

[1986cj7]

Dan
Have you heard back from them yet?
If they don't make one maybe you should try to get a group buy going on the rock crusher one maybe save a few bucks that way

[jeepmonkey]

I just sent them the email yesterday. Last time I emailed them I think it took a day or two.

I'll post here whatever they say.

If they aren't going to make one, then I'll try to organize a group buy or something.

[Cooch]

Steel Horse = Scary but it looks good in the picture :)

[BlackJeepOfTheFamily]

Maybe it's just me....but doesn't that Tonneau cover look sloppy??? also the edges at the back seem to sit too high to allow drainage.

I see a potential swimming pool happening there...compared to the Cal Tops "Pick-Up" top...

My old TJ w/California Tops PickUp Top:

http://plaza.powersurfr.com/BJOTF/rearpu2.JPG

http://plaza.powersurfr.com/BJOTF/toples.JPG

Many people are getting thier Cal Tops through someone on JU who's taken on the job of US distributor to avoid dealing directly with Tim. I'm pretty sure everyone running the P/U top has been more than happy with the quality and fit .... to me the steel whore top doesn't appear to fit properly, and if I was them I'de be embarrassed to use that photo to advertise thier new product.

[Chris S]

I'm sure it is typical steel horse, but for some of my buddies who only run a soft top for a couple of months a year it might be a good cheap alternative.

[jeepmonkey]

Below is the response from Bestop regarding the email I posted above.

Needless to say I will be holding off on my purchase of the rusty pony version for now.

I am going to email him back and ask if there is any expected release date or quarter.

Dan (aka Jeepmonkey) -

Thanks for the inquiry - I've got good news...

The Bikini / Windjammer / Duster product concept you are inquiring about is on
Bestop's radar screen for development. We are calling it a Pickup Top due to its
cab-covering design. We plan to design it more 'weather' tight, though not
altogether waterproof, than the combination of products listed at the beginning
of this paragraph. It will come complete with all necessary mounting hardware,
including a unique door surround to accommodate different door configurations.
We are making applications to fit CJ-7 to TJ. I've seen the CA Tops version you
alluded to in your email, but have yet to see the Rock Crusher Cab Top. Ours
will be different from both, however, in form, fit and function.

FYI - we recently released several new products in addition to the Sailcloth
Replace-a-top you have your sights on, principally: TrailMax Consoles, various
Tinted & Mesh Window Kits, Entry Guards and Door Jackets, to name a few. New
products on the horizon for an early summer release include Entry Steps, an
Oversize Tire Carrier, and a unique Soundbar, so keep your eyes peeled.

Thanks as well for sending me the link to the bulletin board.
I wish I had more time to read this stuff 'cause it's very interesting; a good
source of product ideas. Finally and since you appear to be very Internet savvy,
have you seen Bestop's B-Link or Try Before You Buy interactive program? It's on
many of our main distributors sites. When time permits, I'd appreciate a looksee
and your comments. The new version of bestop.com will be done within the week as
well.

That's all for now. Thanks again for your inquiry. Happy trails!

Kevin Schrandt
VP Sales & Marketing

[Steelheader]

I can't wait to see the Bestop version. :) I know that their quality will surpass the Rusted Pony by far. I just hope they keep it affordable. ;) I will definitely be getting one when money permits. :D I've been waiting for somone else to produce a cab top since I promised Cutch that I will never buy from CT. ;) Happy Jeepin'! :)

[JeepnPit]

I admit, the Caltop looks good and tight. Now that Bestop has gotten a look at that product I can't wait to see what they have in store. Their products are quality without question. Every person I have talked to that has a product of theirs has had nothing but good things to say. I also saw a preview of their sound bar at a carshow on the internet somewhere. It tilts up veritcally and points both speakers towards the rear of the vehicle if needed. It looked freaky and big, but great!

[Joel]

Thanks for keeping us filled in, Jeepmonkey. I'm curious to see what they have in mind for a sound bar! I've got most of my serious Jeep mods done, starting to think about some creature comforts! :D

[97TJSport]

I WANT ONE!! So when do we find out when Bestop will be putting them out??

I'm really hesitant to order anything from California Tops.

Mike

[whatever]

Wow, that would be great if they do make the Pickup Top, their quality is great, I too would be leary of Steel Horse. Good work Jeepmonkey on doing the contacts and research. I look forward to seeing what Bestop comes up with. :)