new soft tops for first gens

[klr toy]

Hi all,
I'm new to this forum, but not to Toyotas. I currently own 2 87 4runners. One is a turbo and the other one is n.a. I recently started making soft tops for my own trucks and decided to put them into production. I sent one to 4wd Toyota Owner magazine and they did a feature article on it in the Jan/Feb issue. I know it has been a long time since anybody has come up with something new, so please check them out at http://www.killertoytops.com .
The current design has removeable sides so it can be turned into a bikini top and it can be used with the factory rear glass or I can provide a vinyl rear window. I can also make custom tops for modified trucks and will be making a seperate bikini top soon.
Shawn

 

[mountainman_gz]

How much would it be for a plain-jane soft top cover? Essentially I just want a cover so that if it rains I can throw something on that looks half decent.

 

[klr toy]

The basic kit, which comes with the frame, top and sides, but without any windows is $850. That's about as plain as I can make it and still look good and function. If you want something other than that, then we'll have to discuss your ideas. If you want just a bikini top, which does not have a frame or sides and uses the roll bar for support, I am currently working on a design and will be making them available soon. Not completely sure of the final price, but I would say they will be around $250-$300. You can e-mail me at [email protected] for more info.

 

[zspokess]

I actually just saw the magazine write up last week, and I am really interested in the top, but I have a few questions.
Do you need the sides attached to handle highway speeds. or is just the top on sturdy enough to handle that? Last year I got the entire back and rear seats redone with marine upholstery and so I usually run with no top at all during the summer, but was thinking it would be nice for rear seat passengers to have a roof option.
Also would full mesh sides be a possibility? Or do you think that there would be a durability issue? I'm thinking small hole, bug mesh, like for camping use.
Thanks

 

[klr toy]

Yes you can run at freeway speeds with sides off and the top section on. I might tend to be a little more careful in extreme crosswinds, though just to be on the safe side.

I don't see any issues with making the sides out of screen except for the obvious in that there will be no weather protection at all except overhead. I think it would be better to maybe make some sort of panel that could be removeable and have the mesh underneath. At least then it can be your option to have them on or off. Just a thought. As long as you're happy with it, I'm sure I can make it however you want. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] to discuss the details one on one.

 

[driftertim]

Awesome post, I'm already saving up my nickels and dimes to get this for my baby. Thanks for this because I've been searching for a while.

 

[muddyt4r]

top

We might get one, but Kayline is cheaper than that. And I don't think shipping is that bad. Sorry, but that's just what I think. By the way, nice t4r. I've really got to fix that avatar.

P.S. what's so special about it?

 

[klr toy]

Kayline is no longer around unless you know something everyone else doesn't. Canback has been bought out by Bestop and are also not doing anything. They started at $1300. There's nothing overly special about it. I'm just trying to fill a void with a high quality new top that can be versatile also. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. By all means, look around and see what's out there or make your own. I bet you won't find anything cheaper or anyone that will do custom work for less! Check out the rates at your local upholstery shop.