Lifting hard top off by gutter mount roof rack or bars

[matzell]

I have looked and not found the answer. I have seen other ways to remove the top, but has anyone removed it by lifting it up by a roof bar or rack with the gutter mounts?

I understand the bars/rack push down and the bottom clamp is not as big so not sure. It would be either the Thule or Yakima bars.

I am happy to look at links or pics if anyone has them.

Thanks in advance

 

[Wheelytech]

I’m interested in hearing the answer to this as well in regards to the conn-fer clamps. But I think I know the answer.

 

[jmylie]

Once all the bolts are removed, 2 fit people can lift and remove the top. If memory serves me, it's about 300 lbs.

In a garage, a host and tow strap work well too.

Sorry, I don't have any pictures.

 

[Wheelytech]

Once all the bolts are removed, 2 fit people can lift and remove the top. If memory serves me, it's about 300 lbs.

In a garage, a host and tow strap work well too.

Sorry, I don't have any pictures.

Ha yeah I recall when I was 16 I was so excited to pull the top off for the first time. I set up a 2x12 ramp and got inside and lifted it on my back. I think I pulled it off but just barely with out crashing.
Ahh to be young and clueless again.

Maybe that’s why my back hurts.

 

[matzell]

Once all the bolts are removed, 2 fit people can lift and remove the top. If memory serves me, it's about 300 lbs.

In a garage, a host and tow strap work well too.

Sorry, I don't have any pictures.

Oh yeah, I have removed several tops. I have used straps, 2x4's under it, etc. I recently restored my BJ44 hard top and looking for ways to remove it with my grantry crane by myself without damaging it. I have ideas but wanted to see if I could mount a roof rack to it and just lift it that way. the 44 top is a little longer and heavier than a 40 top.

Keep the ideas coming...

 

[pb4ugo]

Is it a lift hatch or ambulance doors? I wouldn't f with the rain gutter. They're a little difficult to replace and seem fragile.

 

[matzell]

I swapped it to a lift hatch and just re made the rain gutter out of 14g.

 

[igotta40]

I wouldn’t, but it isn’t my truck

 

[coinoperated40]

I would say to support the weight from underneath not hang the weight below. To pick up the top and sides with only the clamps on the drip rail and fiberglass cap seems cautious.

 

[SteveH]

The way my Yakima rain-gutter rack clamps on (sketchily, as far as lifting with them), I would never lift the entire FJ40 roof by the rack. I would lift from underneath. (I wish it weren't so..)

Any time I pull off only the fiberglass cap, I install the Yakima roof rack, so that the roof can easily sit upside down for headliner work. That's the best use of such a rack in this case.