1. Introduction
The Bestop Traditional Bikini Top is designed for 1976-1983 CJ-5 vehicles, offering a classic open-air driving experience while providing protection from the elements. This top is crafted with factory color-matching fabric and marine-grade industrial thread, ensuring durability and a seamless look. Its high-strength rear straps and reinforced edges are engineered to minimize flapping and maintain shape.
This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Bestop Traditional Bikini Top.
2. Safety Information
WARNING:
Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
Always ensure all components are securely fastened before driving. Regularly inspect the top for any signs of wear or damage that could compromise safety or performance.
3. Setup and Installation
The Bestop Traditional Bikini Top is designed for straightforward installation. It covers the front seats and features two tie-down straps that connect to footman loops at the rear corners of the body tub.
Required Components:
- Bestop 51209-01 header channel (required for attachment to the windshield header).
- Footman loops at the rear body tub for strap attachment.
Installation Steps:
- Attach the Bestop 51209-01 header channel to the windshield header of your vehicle.
- Position the Bikini Top over the front seating area.
- Secure the front edge of the Bikini Top into the header channel.
- Route the high-strength rear straps to the footman loops located at the rear corners of the body tub.
- Fasten the straps securely to ensure the top is taut and properly fitted.
Figure 3.1: Bestop Traditional Bikini Top on a 1976-1983 CJ-5.
Figure 3.2: Rear view of the Bikini Top, highlighting strap attachment points.
Figure 3.3: Close-up of the Bikini Top's attachment to the sport bars and rear straps.
4. Operating and Usage
The Bestop Traditional Bikini Top provides an ideal balance of open-air freedom and protection. It allows for an exhilarating open-air drive while offering shade from the sun and protection from light rain.
Enhanced Protection with Bestop Accessories:
For a more enclosed experience, the Bikini Top can be combined with other Bestop accessories such as the Windjammer and Duster (sold separately).
- Windjammer: This accessory spans across behind the front seats, diverting wind, rain, and dust from entering the cab. It also helps to retain heat in colder weather and keep the interior cooler in warmer weather. Bestop offers both wrap-around and regular styles of Windjammers. The wrap-around style requires factory-style door surrounds and, for 2007 and newer JK models, a sound bar cap.
- Duster: Designed to cover the rear cargo area of your vehicle, the Duster protects against sun, rain, and dust, while also concealing stored items. It utilizes Bestop's belt rail system for attachment and allows for easy opening and closing of the tailgate without removal. The Duster can be installed even with rear seats folded down.
5. Maintenance and Care
Proper care will extend the life and appearance of your Bestop Traditional Bikini Top. The premium black fabric is designed to maintain its shape and resist fading across various temperatures. The marine-grade industrial thread and heavy-duty composite plastic buckles ensure long-lasting durability.
Cleaning Instructions:
- For general cleaning, use mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Apply the cleaning solution with a soft brush or sponge.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
- Allow the top to air dry completely before storing or prolonged use.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or stiff brushes, as these can damage the fabric and components.
Storage:
When not in use for extended periods, store the Bikini Top in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prevent material degradation.
6. Troubleshooting
Most issues with your Bikini Top can be resolved with proper installation and maintenance. If you encounter problems, consider the following:
- Excessive Flapping: Ensure all straps are securely tightened and the front edge is properly seated in the header channel. Reinforced edges are designed to minimize flapping, but proper tension is crucial.
- Water Penetration: While the fabric itself is designed to resist water and moisture, ensure all attachment points are snug and there are no gaps. The top is not designed to be fully waterproof in heavy rain, especially without additional accessories like the Windjammer.
- Difficulty Attaching: Verify that you have the correct Bestop 51209-01 header channel for your vehicle model. Ensure the top is oriented correctly and all straps and buckles are aligned before attempting to fasten.
For persistent issues, refer to the official Bestop website or contact their customer support.
7. Product Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Bestop |
| Brand | Bestop |
| Model Number | 52507-01 |
| Item Weight | 1 pounds |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Exterior | Textured |
| Compatibility | 1976-1983 CJ-5 |
| Fabric Material | Premium Black fabric (color-matching) |
| Thread Type | Marine-grade industrial thread |
| Buckle Material | Heavy-duty composite plastic |
8. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information:
The Bestop Traditional Bikini Top comes with a 1-year Limited Warranty. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to the official Bestop warranty policy.
Additional Resources and Support:
- Official User Guide (PDF): For comprehensive installation instructions and diagrams, you can download the official PDF user guide: Download Installation Manual
- Bestop Website: Visit the official Bestop website for product information, FAQs, and customer support: www.bestop.com
- Authorized Dealers: For local support, installation services, or to purchase additional accessories, contact an authorized Bestop dealer in your area.
