How to build your own hardtop removal hoist system

[JonB]

Hi All,

I got this idea from a guy on YouTube, but made some changes myself, to install an easy way to remove a hardtop on my JKU.

I will be trying to do my best using iOS and doing this, so please bare with me...

I went out and bought a Harbor Freight 1500 lb. ATV winch. And went to Lowe’s and got some U bolts

The U bolts fit perfectly into the mount for the winch at a diagonal.

I then drilled holes around the truss that I want to mount it to using the U Bolt as a guide. I did this at each end and then chalk marked to show the area around the truss.

Then use the mount that comes with the winch as a template to drill your mounting holes through the “drywall” that you will attach it to.

After this it’s just plug and play. Here is where you will need a helping hand. I had a buddy hold it up while I got into the crawl space and attached the hardware.

I inserted a washer to the plate and bolts that came with it. After this, I drank a beer with my buddy to ease the tension of the test. Glad I did. As you will see in the video at the end. But it did hold up!

I am by no means an expert, so if you see anything that seems like it needs to be addressed let me know!

 

[Chris]

Nicely done! This just goes to show you don't need to buy one of the hoist systems on the market, as it's very, very easy to make one of your own.

I'm sure the addition of the winch makes it a breeze too.

 

[Jkurubicon2020]

I like that, just wish I didnt have drop ceiling in my garage

 

[Jay D]

You should make a YouTube video. Im having a house built as we speak and try in incorporate a self made hoist system.

 

[se7enack]

This is cool. I may try this while we are in lockdown.

 

[JonB]

Thank you everyone. I’m not getting emails or alerts saying people commented.

 

[Mrriverajr]

I like but I don't have a Sheetrock ceiling but I got a few ideas
Thanks

 

[North]

This is cool. I may try this while we are in lockdown.

I hear that man, it’s been a good time to get some much needed repairs and mods on the Jeep.

 

[AlexanderCaro]

Thank you for the information! Anyone have any other ideas as a stand alone unit? The ceiling in my garage is so low that I would not be able to achieve this. However, I am very interested in ideas on how to remove the hardtop in my driveway without the need of a second person. Thank you in advance for any suggestions.

 

[Tootallracing]

Thank you everyone. I’m not getting emails or alerts saying people commented.

Very Nice! Can you tell me the ceiling height in your garage?

Do you have any pictures on how you attached the straps to the hardtop?

Thanks

 

[Celtic_Son]

Very cool. I was throwing around the idea of doing the same thing. Thanks for sharing!