6 Best Jeep Hardtop Hoists to Help You Go Topless

How many times have you looked at the opening garage door, revealing a beautiful sunny day making you wish you could take the top off your hardtop Jeep before driving away? But of course, there’s never anyone around to help in such cases, and you can’t do the job all by yourself, or you might be late to work. “No, not again,” you think to yourself and set off into the concrete jungle with the roof on like everyone else around you. What’s the point of owning a Jeep with a removable top if it’s a real hassle to take it out?

All you need to make the most of the convertible weather is a hardtop hoist for your Jeep. As the name suggests, it is a device that lifts the removable hardtop from your Jeep and stores it mid-air until you need to put it on again. That way, the hardtop occupies none of your garage’s floor space and is also stored safely. Installing a Jeep hardtop hoist in your garage can be a bit tricky, but once it’s up and running, your morning commutes will get much better. There are several hardtop hoists available online, and to help you choose the right model for your needs and budget, we have curated a comprehensive list and reviewed six of the best Jeep hardtop hoists we could find out there.

Best Jeep Hardtop Hoist Reviews

1. Redrock 4×4 Manual Hard Top Hoist — Budget Option

The first entry on our list is the Redrock hardtop hoist built for all 2007-2018 four-door Jeep Wrangler JK models. It is a manual hardtop hoist, meaning you don’t get a sophisticated electric motor that will do all the heavy lifting for you but it’s super easy-to-use, quite affordable, and even easier to install.

Indeed, Redrock’s Jeep hardtop hoist kit comes with almost everything you need to have it ready in no time, including heavy-duty straps, hooks, and model-specific strap guides, so your Jeep’s hardtop remains unscathed.

However, the lack of any powered lifting mechanism means this hoist will not actually lift your hardtop; it will only hold it in place and allow you to drive your now-roofless Jeep away. So, when your Jeep is not in the garage, you might have to be careful not to bump your head on the hanging rooftop—it’s still better than having to remove it by hand, though.

The Redrock 4×4 manual hardtop hoist is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly option that gets the job done without breaking the bank. Of course, it’s not the fanciest model out there and it’s not “technically” a hoist since it doesn’t actually lift the top. Still, if you are a little tight or don’t want to invest big bucks in an electric-powered model, this is the one you need.

Highlighted features

• Four-point harness-type Jeep hardtop hoist
• 7’ to 10’ required ceiling height
• Manual operation
• Compatible with all 2007-2018 four-door Jeep Wranglers JK
• Approximate installation time: 3 hours

Pros

• Comes with strap guides to prevent scratches to your hardtop
• Quick and straightforward operation
• Uses industrial grade hoisting straps
• Affordable Jeep hardtop hoist
• Requires basic tooling to install and maintain

Cons

• Hardtop can get in the way when on the rack
• Does not come with nuts and bolts

2. Lange Originals | Hoist-A-Top Simple

The Lange Originals Hoist-A-Top Simple is another manually-operated budget-friendly Jeep hardtop hoist. Unlike the previous model, the Lange Originals hoist is designed to work with much newer Jeep Wranglers JL built after 2018.

The Hoist-a-top simple uses a clever pulley mechanism to assist you in lifting your Jeep’s hardtop by operating the hand crank lever. The mechanism includes high-strength braided steel cables that go through three no-slip pulleys before making their way to the self-braking worm gear.

The Hoist-A-Top Simple comes with all required hardware to securely mount it in your garage. The kit includes screws, washers, a pulley mechanism, a hand crank lever, and steel cables. However, you might want to consider getting new screws from the nearest hardware shop as the ones included in the kit are prone to premature failure. Keep in mind that your hardtop is only safe when the hoist is properly attached—and you really don’t want to see it drop to the floor no matter whether your beloved Jeep is under it or not.

The Lange Originals Hoist-A-Top Simple adds more convenience and usability over the previous model in exchange for a slight price bump. The installation process is also a bit complicated, but once it is up there, using this Jeep hardtop hoist is a walk in the park.

Highlighted features

• Pulley mechanism-type Jeep hardtop hoist
• 7’ to 12’ required ceiling height
• Manual operation
• Compatible with all two and four-door JL Wranglers
• Approximate installation time: 2-3 hours

Pros

• Steel braided cables ensure safety and reliability
• Easy to operate hand crank lever mechanism
• Self-braking worm drive for utmost safety
• Hardtop can be lifted to not get in your way
• Comes with special mounting brackets
• One-year limited warranty

Cons

• Not the most straightforward installation procedure

3. HARKEN Hardtop Overhead Garage Storage Hoist — Editor’s Pick

If you are looking to add a bit more sophistication and convenience to your Jeep hardtop hoist, there is nothing better than Harken’s model for the money. Although it is still a manually operated model, it offers various safety and convenience features that make it one of the best Jeep hardtop hoists available.

The Harken hardtop hoist also uses a pully mechanism similar to the previous model. However, the pully system has been designed to provide a mechanical advantage of 6:1, thereby making the whole process pretty much effortless.

The Harken Jeep hardtop hoist also uses a patented pulley setup that automatically levels the hardtop mid-air and features self-locking components so you never risk accidentally dropping your hardtop.

This model is designed for use in 10′ ceiling garages, but Harken also makes hardtop hoists for 12′ & 16′ ceiling heights—just in case you are lucky enough to have such a huge garage.

A unique feature about Harken’s model is compatibility; even though the bolts are designed for all post-2007 Jeep Wranglers, Harken says they will fit pretty much any hardtop roof out there.

Highlighted features

• Pulley mechanism-type Jeep hardtop hoist
• 10’ required ceiling height
• Manual operation
• Designed for 2007 and later Wranglers but compatible with most hardtops
• Approximate installation time: 3-4 hours

Pros

• Can be used for all hardtops
• Sophisticated pulley mechanism with a self-leveling feature
• Double-braided rope is highly durable
• Provides significant mechanical advantage to the operator
• Self-locking mechanism for utmost safety
• Made in the USA
• Five years manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Installation instructions could be better

4. Smittybilt 510001 Hard Top Hoist

If manual labor isn’t your thing, you’ll probably want to look at an automatic Jeep hardtop hoist like the Smittybilt 510001 here. Indeed, this one uses a 200 Amp electric winch that does all the lifting for you at the press of a button.

The winch only develops 1/3 horsepower but can lift up to 440 lbs., more than enough for your Jeep’s hardtop. It also comes with integrated safety limit stops at regular intervals and an internal braking mechanism for complete safety in case of winch failure or malfunction—not that it’s prone to failure but you never know.

The hardtop will be held securely by the 510001’s unique backbone frame, complete with soft cushioned rollers, so your paintwork stays immaculate. Even the J-hooks are coated in a rubberized material for the same reason. And worth mentioning, the innovative backbone frame also offers space to safely mount your Jeep’s freedom panels on top of the main hardtop unit—pretty neat, indeed. Moreover, the Smittybilt 510001 Jeep hardtop hoist even comes with built-in low-resistance casters, so you can lower your hardtop onto the garage floor and store it away.

Smittybilt’s model offers you a hassle-free way of attaching or detaching your Jeep’s hardtop within just a few minutes. It’s not the more straightforward to install and definitely not the cheapest one, but when it comes to Jeep accessories, you really can’t go wrong with Smittybilt.

Highlighted features

• Electric winch Jeep hardtop hoist
• Uses a 200-Amp 1/3 horsepower AC winch
• Under 9’ required ceiling height
• Automatic operation
• Compatible with 87-06 TJ/YJ and 07-18 two & four-door Wrangler JK
• Approximate installation time: 2-2.5 hours

Pros

• Comes with a high-capacity electric winch
• Built-in safety features
• Rugged backbone frame with cushioned rollers
• Adjustable to fit several Wrangler models
• Can also accommodate freedom panels
• Six years manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Challenging to get balancing right during installation

5. Lange Originals 014210 Hoist-A-Top

Lange Originals is back with another great model from its Hoist-A-Top lineup; only this time, it is an automatic Jeep hardtop hoist powered by an electric winch. The small yet powerful winch is incredibly robust and foolproof, thanks to no-slip steel gears and copper electrical components. It offers 42′ of strong steel cable providing controlled and jerk-less movements while keeping your Jeep’s hardtop level at all times.

Like the previous model, the 014210 hoist-a-top also offers a robust and powder-coated steel frame that easily attaches to the top using foam protectors and rubber-coated hooks. Furthermore, the steel frame can even accommodate freedom top panels using the included safety straps. You don’t get casters to lower the hardtop onto the garage floor, but that shouldn’t be a problem as the electric winch can easily hold it up there for prolonged periods.

The Lange Originals 014210 Hoist-A-Top is an excellent option in the electric hardtop hoists category. The tough and durable steel frame along with the high-quality electric winch makes it all worth the slightly higher price tag.

Highlighted features

• Electric winch Jeep hardtop hoist
• 7’ to 9’ required ceiling height
• Automatic operation
• Compatible with 07-18 two & four-door Wrangler JK & JKU models
• Approximate installation time: 3-4 hours

Pros

• Hardtop stays completely level while lifting
• Can remove or install the hardtop in just 3 minutes
• Uses a good quality electric winch
• Rugged and durable steel frame
• Enough room for freedom roof panels
• Powder-coated finish
• One-year limited warranty

Cons

• Foam protectors can move out of place
• Costs more than previous models

6. Bestop Hoss Hardtop Hoist — Premium Pick

The Bestop Hoss 4282001 is the Rolls Royce of the Jeep hardtop hoists. It is the very definition of effortless operation with unmatched reliability and ease of use. The 4282001 hardtop hoist uses an electric motor capable of lifting up to 220 lbs. while running on your standard 120V wall socket. The motor is controlled by a wired controller that mounts on your wall for easy operation and it even comes with a key lock to make sure the motor isn’t turned on by accident.

Unlike other powered Jeep hardtop hoists, the Bestop Hoss 4282001 does not use a bulky metal frame to lift your hardtop securely—and it’s actually a good thing. Assembling the frame itself takes a while, and also adds significant weight to the setup, thereby increasing the load on the winch. Instead, Bestop’s model uses the good ol’ pulley configuration found in other manual hardtop hoists. All you need to do is fasten the straps appropriately and up it goes!

The Bestop Hoss 4282001 is a premium jeep hardtop hoist as it offers various safety and convenience features absent in other models. However, of course, it’s also the most expensive of the bunch. Still, if you want nothing but the best of the best—and money is no object—this is the one!

Highlighted features

• Electric winch Jeep hardtop hoist
• 9’ to 15’ required ceiling height
• Automatic operation
• Compatible with Jeep Gladiator and 07-21 two & four-door Wrangler JK & JL models
• Approximate installation time: 3-4 hours

Pros

• Extremely easy to use
• Locking mechanism for controls to prevent unauthorized use
• Lightweight, frameless design
• Fixed controller unit for added convenience
• Relatively easy to install
• One-year limited warranty

Cons

• On the expensive side

What to Consider When Buying A Jeep Hardtop Hoist

Compatibility

A hardtop hoist is useless if it isn’t compatible with your Jeep model and type. Hence, compatibility is an essential factor to consider while choosing a Jeep hardtop hoist. Luckily, we have mentioned compatible Jeep vehicles for each hoist in each product’s “highlighted features” section. Some may fit for more than one specific model but when in doubt, always make sure to confirm with the manufacturer before committing—you really don’t want to go through the installation process only to realize it doesn’t even fit your truck.

Safety

Another equally important factor to consider is operational safety. These hoists have the critical job of storing your Jeep’s hardtop mid-air, where even the slightest of malfunction can potentially lead to severe injury or damage to property at the very least. So, always make sure the hardtop hoist you buy comes with several safety features and strong straps.

Mode of operation

Based on all Jeep hardtop hoists included in our list, there are two main modes of operation—manual and automatic. Manual operation means you need to pull the hardtop up using the provided mechanism physically. Meanwhile, automatic Jeep hardtop hoists do all the heavy lifting using an electric winch motor at the press of a button. Automatic or powered hoists are considered a better choice, but they also bring a higher price tag and more components that can potentially malfunction at some point.

Garage considerations

Different hardtop hoists come with different requirements regarding the garage layout and available space. For example, most models need a specific minimum ceiling height to function as intended. You must consider all such special requirements and make sure they are fulfilled before purchasing a Jeep hardtop hoist. Wherever possible, we have tried to mention any such special needs in the description section of each product. Still, we recommend you check the manufacturer’s website to be sure.

Weight capacity

Powered hardtop hoists use an electric winch or motor to lift or lower the top onto your Jeep. These motors come with particular specifications regarding their amperage, voltage, and, most importantly, weight capacity. You must never exceed an electric winch or motor’s maximum weight rating for safety reasons. Pick a Jeep hardtop hoist that offers a higher maximum weight capacity than what your hardtop weighs.

Installation procedure

Installing a hardtop hoist in your garage is by no means a temporary measure. Hardtop hoists require drilling holes and making several other permanent modifications to your garage, and that is why it is crucial to consider the extent of these modifications. A suitable Jeep hardtop hoist should be easy and quick to install, even for inexperienced individuals.

Verdict

Enjoying a pleasant commute with the roof off is the best way to beat the Monday blues on your way to work. A Jeep hardtop hoist lets you do just that but without the hassle of having to ask someone else for help. However, you must pick the best Jeep hardtop hoist possible to enjoy these simple pleasures of life entirely.

Of course, there’s no clear winner here as the best option for you will differ based on your needs and budget. Still, our team concluded that Harken’s hardtop hoist offers the perfect blend of affordability and features. It uses a clever pulley mechanism and hoisting system compatible with a wide range of other vehicles.

If you are running on a tight budget, Redrock’s model might be your best bet. It’s nowhere close to being as practical as the Harken one but will do the job just fine and won’t cost you an arm and a leg. On the other hand, if money isn’t a problem, look for the Bestop Hoss Hardtop Hoist—trust me, you won’t regret it!