EZ 4x4 hinges for Freedom Tops

[legend007]

Any one use these? What are your thoughts? Thinking about the Sunrider or using the hinges for thr existing.

https://www.ez4x4.com/products/ez4x4-2020-up-jeep-jeep-jt-gladiator-ez-flip-top

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[unsocbl]

I started a thread about those several months ago...still haven't purchased but nothing negative:
EZ Flip

 

[Thunderspud]

I recall seeing these pop up on here. For my purposes, I just don't see the point. Seems like the worst of all the options, combined into one?

IMO looks a bit goofy when flipped back, have to either permanently attach VHB tape to your top or drill holes, convenient storage (the bed) is already available, and you still have to get out of the truck to go from closed to open. What do you guys see in these that I am missing?

 

[JTdiRtyD]

I recall seeing these pop up on here. For my purposes, I just don't see the point. Seems like the worst of all the options, combined into one?

IMO looks a bit goofy when flipped back, have to either permanently attach VHB tape to your top or drill holes, convenient storage (the bed) is already available, and you still have to get out of the truck to go from closed to open. What do you guys see in these that I am missing?

Agreed. I've seen folks say they are good for folks who physically can't lift the panels off, but now you have to step up and swing the panels up and over, which is likely going to be more difficult and you run the risk of slipping and falling off the truck, or the panels slipping from your hand and slamming down.

Not to mention the bouncing they will do on the road, even if you don't notice it. Give it time and they'll wear right through the paint.

I have been trying to come up with a solution to secure the panels in your vehicle. Mine didn't come with a bag, and the bag doesn't secure them in place anyways. I also can't just toss em in the bed or the back seat because those are full of gear. I've been thinking of some type of system that I can secure them to the underside of the cap roof.

 

[Thunderspud]

I've been thinking of some type of system that I can secure them to the underside of the cap roof.

Interesting. Yeah, I didn't really think of guys with camping rigs who already have a full bed.....even though I am one of those people usually. Especially now with the SmartCap. That said, I started keeping moving blankets back there year-round. Handy for pretty much everything from trail repairs, quick top storage, and even the occasional mountain picnic/tailgate.

I suppose every storage option has a tradeoff for some other feature.

 

[PBCounty]

The best thing about the Sunrider is opening / closing at a stop light without even taking my seatbelt off. That simplicity means it gets opened every time I drive the Gladiator - unless raining.

 

[D_JT]

Get an OEM storage bag and toss them in the bed. I personally would never run the EZ Flip set up. Nothing against the company. I just don't like the set up. Otherwise, a used sunrider is the way to go. I picked one up over the summer for about $300. Its awesome. And its not any louder than the freedom panels.

 

[ATXNelson]

I have the EZ top now for about 6 months. Its easy to operate. Panels are secure when open and actually get less banged up from taking all the way off and storing in the bed, bouncing around. The clamps that hold the panels in place when open have rubber so no scratching and hold tight. Didn't want the soft top and the EZ was an cheaper option. I did not screw them in, used the supplied tape only. I've had them open going down highway at 80+ mph and no issues. Yes the sunrider is probably easier to operate and if you can find a used one, then it would go to personal preference.

 

[Jaxmax]

Well I like it, seems like a good idea, not too noticeable on a black top , but would probably glue and bolt it. yes you can store in the bed in a bag, but I have a fridge in bed, two dogs on back seat, and only thing that I would worry about is surfrods on my rack possiblty hitting the tops. I don't have room most times when we are going places and sunrider is nice but would want to take it off in winter and it will really hit my rods. I am also getting old so going by habit and just tossing the sunrider back when rods are on truck could happen much easier then being out on side step and flipping them back. Still on the fence easy way is just like the honey do list....do nothing!....Jack

 

[Stinggrey 21 Rubi]

I have had them a couple years and love them. I get back in the sticks camping on trail, with bed loaded up i don't have to worry about storing the panels. I don't usually drive at 60+ with them folded back but I have.
The only down side is some of the places I go have trees overhanding the trail so I just need to remember about the additional height added. Also I did not install the through bolts, bonding only. I did use some 3M 5200 to fillet seal the edges of the hinges just for overkill.

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