Choosing a Hoist System FAQ’s

     When it comes to taking the hard top off your Wrangler, there are dozens of ways to get the job done. We here at Topsy Products would like to help you find the best solution that works for your setup. But before you can choose the perfect option, there are a few questions to answer.

     First, where are you going to be removing the top? Garage? Side Yard? Parking Structure?  This will determine the options that are available to you. Some models require a strong garage ceiling to support the hoist system. Others don’t need any ceiling but will need to have floor space to store the top. Ceiling mounted models work better with rig that have a suspension lift. Floor cart styles do not.

     Next item to think about is power or manual? Do you have an outlet available near to where you want to hang the top? Is whoever taking the top off strong enough to run a manual crank? Some manual versions offer an adaptor to hook up a cordless drill to make it a powered hoist.

     Another thing to consider is how handy you are with power tools? Or do you know a good contractor?  And, an added piece of the puzzle is how much do you want to spend? There are simple FREE ‘Do It Yourself’ plans that only cost $100 in parts, all the way up to $1000 powered models that you can control with your phone.



Hoist System Comparison

     DIY Topsy Plans

Pros: Works with Topsy brackets
Inexpensive, under $100 for all the parts.
Works well with lifted rigs
Powered so easy for anyone to use.

Cons: Take moderate skill to assemble and install
Ceiling mount style, must have ceiling space in garage
No storage for Freedom Tops
Doesn’t look pretty


     Racor or Fleximount Hoist
Pros: Works with Topsy brackets
Looks clean when installed
Uses 4 point attachment system for level lift
Works well with lifted rigs
Has rack to store Freedom Tops

Cons: Manual crank so must be in ok shape to use
Moderate cost around $300
Ceiling mount style, must have ceiling space in garage
Take moderate skill to assemble and install


     Harken
Pros: Works with Topsy brackets
Uses 4 point attachment system for level lift
Looks clean when installed
Works well with lifted rigs
Has rack to store Freedom Tops

Cons: Manual crank so must be in ok shape to use
Moderate cost around $300
Ceiling mount style, must have ceiling space in garage
Take moderate skill to assemble and install


     Lange
Pros: Works with Topsy brackets
Has storage for Freedom Tops
Works well with lifted rigs

Cons: Takes moderate skill to assemble and install
Single point lift system makes it hard to balance (better with Topsy brackets)
Rear window should stay open
Rear window seal could be damaged with included bracket (upgrade to Topsy brackets)


     Garage Smart
Pros: Works with Topsy brackets
Uses 4 point attachment system for level lift
Powered and phone app are easy to use for anyone.
Works well with lifted rigs
Looks clean when installed

Cons: Manual crank so must be in ok shape to use
Expensive investment at just under $700
Does not have rack to store Freedom Tops
Rear window seal could be damaged from webbing straps (upgrade to a Topsy kit)
Ceiling mount, must have ceiling space in garage
Takes moderate skill to assemble and install


     Toplift Pros
Pros: Easy one person use
Looks clean when installed
No garage ceiling needed

Cons: Does not use Topsy brackets and must leave rear window open
Doesn’t work well with lifted rigs
Expensive investment over $750
Does not have place to store Freedom Tops
Rolling cart style, must have floor space in garage
Takes moderate skill to assemble


     Roll’nJack
Pros: Easy one person use
Looks clean when installed
No garage ceiling needed

Cons: Does not use Topsy brackets and must leave rear window open
Doesn’t work well with lifted rigs
Expensive investment at just under $1000
Does not have place to store Freedom Tops
Rolling cart style, must have floor space in garage
Takes moderate skill to assemble

 

More info to come soon...