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03 Wrangler hardtop won't stay closed

I have a hard time keeping the back window on the hardtop closed. Several times a week it opens up.

At first I thought it was a result of the plastic flexing during travel. Now, though, I suspect that the problem is due to pressurization of the interior when closing the doors - it's like the door seals are TOO good and when you slam the door the pressure blows out the back window.

Truthfully, I can't believe the back window doesn't have a better mechanism to stay shut that the tailgate grabbing the rubber seal on the window.

Anybody have this same problem? How about a solution?

Reply to
thomas
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Yep same problem - got a rubber block to act as a spacer between the rear window and the spare wheel. Not technical but very effective...

Reply to
John Smith

mechanism to stay shut that the tailgate grabbing the rubber seal on the window. > >

Isn't it amazing how clever the manufacturer's cost-cutters can be? Why, istead of a proper latch, they can just use a jam-fit approach and save $5 per vehicle!

Reply to
Jerry McG

There's a vent in the rear tailgate that's supposed to let the "excess air" escape (behind your spare tire). Is there anything blicking the vent? Older Wranglers used to have vents behind the rear quarter windows in the hardtop, itself that served the same purpose.

You might also loosen the hard top to make sure that it is seated correctly on the body. Perhaps it is just out of alignment? Maybe it's sitting too high?

My '03 doesn't have this problem -- at least not yet. Since your's is that new, I'd say to let the dealer deal with it. Or even better, it's spring. Just take it off... :)

-John

Reply to
John Sevey

I'd take it back to the dealer and scream my head off! No excuse for that. (For some reason, my '03 Sport doesn't have that problem.)

Reply to
j carter

Is this a different design than previous years? I can't see how the window could open without the tailgate opening and stay undamaged...

  • * * Matt Macchiarolo
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    "We must not confuse dissent with disloyalty." -Edward R. Murrow
Reply to
Matt Macchiarolo

Take it back to the dealer. Still under warranty. I don't have the problem with my 02 sport. Top has been off and on several times too. chad

95 YJ RIP 99 WJ Hers
Reply to
Chad Fraker

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