Fiberglass top install question

[d90_1372]

Hello All-

I've been giving serious thought to purchasing a used fiberglass top for my '97 90. The Best Top has seen better days after 5 or so years of wear and break-in attempts (the alarm for my 90 is one of the better upgrades i've made to-date).

It seems like people in this group and others generally have had mixed experiences with the fiberglass top. Also, I understand many have opted to purchase Badger tops as a best top replacement and/or a hardtop substitute.

Assuming I still go the fiberglass top route, I'm wondering whether or not any riveting is required to install. Also, please do share your experiences with the fiberglass top vs. badger or others.

Thanks much

[lrnasd90]

I just put mine on this past weekend. No riveting.

[Mike Hippert]

You will have too install rivit nuts in the rails if you don't have them. Not too long ago a few people went this down this road. I think most were pleased with the Fiberglass top, but it is a PITA to put on.

Chris merged a bunch of threads together.

Fiberglass install (http://www.d-90.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=517)

[evilfij]

Only 94s should you have to drill and rivnut.

97s it is a bolt on. I am happy with mine.

Ron

[Joe P]

James,

What type of alarm system do you have in your 90? I am looking to purchase one, but am a little leary of there effectiveness. Thanks Joe

[TwisteD90]

I bought a brand new one from the local dealer and only lasted 8 months before it stared to crack and fall apart. It's a good top if you don't intend on 4 wheelin with it being on, be very very careful and take your time when installing and removing the top and only do it once a year if you have to, the more you put it on and take it off will cause it to get weaker. Also you need to add a sound deadener since you'll start to hear your engine, road noise and so on coming from the bottom of the truck. Also it's a plus if you paint it where I think it will increase the life of the top.

[AJKing]

I pulled my fiberglass top off and put the soft top on for the summer.

Unfortunately, in the process of getting the fiberglass top off, the aluminum rivet nuts fastening the roof to the tub were either mashed and needed to get drilled out, or were originally over-tightened so the screw threads deformed the aluminum and they needed to be sawn through. It's getting a bit colder, so I need to put the fiberglass roof back on!

Do you know where I can get these aluminum rivet nuts? Or is there a popular and more hard-wearing substitute people use?

Thanks a ton,

-A

[JimC]

replied to your PM