Extended Hardtop

[Jeep383-S]

Would I be able to put an extended hardtop like on the CJ-8 or some sort of safari cab like the LJ on the Gladiator? One thing I think would be an issue is that on the Gladiator the body is broken into the tub and the bed and the CJ-8 and LJ are just one long piece.

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[2020 SCRAMBLER]

To your point, the body tub and bed tubs are separate units on the new JT Gladiator. Plus the chassis itself is much longer than the CJ or LJ. Maybe someone figures out how to make a single top work across that length, but just the reality of panel weight, chassis and tub flex, a small gap to somehow fill (between 2 tubs), etc. to me seems unlikely to have it all in one top.

However, we will likely see someone develop a different hardtop that integrates directly into a separate bed cap that connects together with some form of a flexible seal. That would effectively achieve what you want - everything open from windshield to back glass creating a long-wheelbase SUV. It wouldn't be a single floor either like the CJ8...there'd be a couple of walls at back of cab and front of bed. But you could probably install a 3rd row seat and use it like a SUV. But minus heat and A/C unless you get crafty.

This is exactly why I'm not getting a factory hardtop as I think the aftermarket will deliver interesting options. Plus, not likely I'll use a hard top that much here on west coast with mild winters. If I really wanted a factory hardtop in the future, can probably pick one up used for less than cost of factory new. I'm more likely to get something like Ursa-Minor's planned camper top with flip-top tent.

I'd be really surprised if Jeep didn't introduce such a setup (2 modular tops that integrate) as a different model or at least an options package at some point down the road.

 

[Troybilt]

I also think it will not be a big deal to make up for the fact that the cab and bed are separate. I would think that there is plenty of flexible products out there to use.

What is the maximum amount of separation difference that could be achieved? Im thinking not much more than a few inches.

My main concern is will it be bear resistant

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