Can-Back or Softopper

[BoatRacer]

I searched this topic and see a lot of responses on making your own, ect, but I'm stuck specifically between these two brands. Is the fit and quality really worth the extra cash for the CB? There's one on CL for $1K, but that's still more than a new Softopper.

 

[flagbasher]

I got a Softopper. The initial install was a real pain since the top was so tight.

I've seen lots of rain and snow in the months since. No leaks.

Rolling up the sides takes about 1-2min.

If I recall, the only downside to the Can-Back is that the frame doesn't fold away. But the upside is you can run a rack I think?

Been a while since I researched this.

 

[KidVermicious]

If I recall, the only downside to the Can-Back is that the frame doesn't fold away. But the upside is you can run a rack I think?

That's pretty much my take on it. If you don't want to run a rack, get the SoftTopper. Or hit up [MENTION=64685]TOY2G[/MENTION] for a KillerToyTop.

 

[ajohnson]

FWIW I love my Softopper. flagbasher makes a good point about the frame. The softopper is quick to roll up, collapse, or remove completely. Also, IIRC, Canback was bought by another company and the quality control and customer service was/is crappy. This pushed me to the softopper.

 

[BoatRacer]

Thank you for the replies. I was thinking the build quality or material must be much better to command twice the price of a Softopper and that might be worth it to stand up to the weather here. Glad to hear otherwise, I want to buy a top next week.

 

[penbergm]

I've had the soft topper for 3 years. Love it.

 

[flagbasher]

The frame of the Softopper is pretty light and snaps together in a few places. Not the sturdiest thing I've ever seen. I felt like I might break it when I was installing it. Getting the back bow in place and tight with the straps was pretty harrowing.

Also, make sure you take your time getting the front bar bend correct. That's where I've heard they can leak if they aren't snug. The front bar is flat aluminum covered in snap buttons. You put the weatherstripping on and bolt it in where your hard top bolts to the top of the cab. Then you bend it to fit your existing weatherstripping from the hard top.

I ended up installing a Harken hoister to pull my top and store it. Highly recommended.