Frequently Asked Questions
Top Swap Texas — Help center
Tops, installation, trade-ins, and more. Houston's Jeep & Bronco top specialists.
Bestop eTop
What is the Bestop eTop?
The Bestop eTop is the first fully electric soft top for Jeeps and Broncos. Shop available models here: eTops
How do I lower my eTop?
No need to unzip the windows first. From inside the cab, unlatch the two latches, then press the lower button to stow the eTop.
How hard is it to raise and lower the eTop?
It's incredibly easy. Flip open the two windshield latches, press the brake, and push the open button. In about 10 seconds, you're fully open-air without leaving the driver's seat and without removing the side windows.
What are the features and benefits of the eTop?
Available in slant back or square back. JLU model windows do not need to be removed to lower the top. Cargo loading and unloading is easy: run the zippers up the sides, pop the tailgate bar out of the bracket, and rest it on top. Multiple insulation layers, with the innermost being a suede-like vinyl that hides the framework. Easy to raise and lower with your foot on the brake: pop the two latches and press the lower button. When folded down it adds no additional height, so lifted Jeeps can still clear garages.
What options are there for the JLU slant back?
Two options: the Glide Top and the Trek Top NX. The Trek Top NX looks similar but the top does not fold completely down, and its sun rider only exposes the front row of seats. The Glide Top folds completely down and in sun rider position exposes both rows of seats for more open-air capability overall.
What is the Sunrider feature?
Open the latches to fold back just the leading edge for partial open-air driving. For full open air, unzip and remove all three windows from the sides; the entire top then folds completely down.
Can I install an eTop myself?
Technically yes, but it's not recommended. Installation requires specialized experience to ensure proper alignment and long-term reliability, and includes an electrical component (switch, brake interlock kit, wiring). The warranty is only 1 year if self-installed, compared to 3 years when installed by a Platinum Authorized Installer like Top Swap Texas. Professional installation also makes you eligible for our Top Swap trade-in program. Top Swaps
What is the warranty on the eTop?
3 years when installed by Top Swap Texas, or 1 year when self-installed or installed elsewhere.
How loud is the eTop?
Bestop states the eTop is quieter than the factory hard top. Our customer feedback and firsthand experience confirm this — the eTop is impressively quiet.
Can I take the eTop through a car wash?
Yes. The eTop is designed to handle automatic car washes.
TST Hard Top
When was the TST Hardtops brand established?
The TST Hardtops brand launched in 2025, born from the realization that Jeep and Bronco owners needed aggressively priced, high-quality hard top options. Our founders insisted on two non-negotiables: the tops must look incredible and stand up to the toughest elements, and they must last the lifetime of ownership. Every TST Hardtop is backed by a team of real off-road enthusiasts who stand behind the brand.
What is the TST original hard top?
It fits '97-'06 Wrangler TJs well. Two-piece design available in tan/spice, black, and khaki. Works with half doors and full doors.
What material are TST Hardtops made from?
TST Hardtops are constructed using hand-laid fiberglass, similar to premium brands like DV8 and other high-end aftermarket manufacturers. Our process includes multi-layer fiberglass construction for strength, reinforced stress points, a UV-resistant exterior coating, and precision-molded fitment for each vehicle model. This combination ensures durability, rigidity, and long-term performance.
What colors are available?
We offer multiple finish options, including Standard Textured Black (most popular), factory-original colors such as Khaki Gray, and custom paint-matched tops. For custom colors, contact us here: Contact Us
Do TST Hardtops come insulated?
Yes. Every TST Hardtop includes a full-coverage carpeted headliner that provides a clean, finished interior appearance, reduces heat and cold transfer, and helps dampen road and wind noise. Many aftermarket headliners only cover portions of the interior, leaving exposed fiberglass. Ours covers 100% of the interior shell for a premium look and feel.
Since it's two pieces, is it prone to leaking?
No. There is a rain gutter built into the main shell that redirects water from the top down the sides and away from the vehicle. The two-piece seam is not a leak point.
How does the front panel attach?
There is one clamp in the middle, two along the rear sides of the panel, and two on the front of the panel, for five clamps total. It attaches much like a factory original hard top does.
What type of latches are used?
TST Hardtops use commercial-grade, adjustable latches designed for long-term durability. They secure to the factory windshield footman loops, are used on both one-piece and two-piece tops, and allow fine-tuning for a perfect seal and fit.
How does the rear glass raise?
The glass raises just like the factory original hard top. The spare tire is swung out of the way and the glass levers outward.
How is the noise level compared to the factory original hard top?
It has a carpeted interior which provides additional noise reduction over the factory original hard top.
How many bolts secure the shell?
6 bolts secure the hard top shell.
Is hardware included?
Yes. All required hardware is included with your purchase. No additional parts are needed for installation.
How do I install a TST Hardtop?
Installation is straightforward using basic hand tools:
- Remove your factory soft or hard top
- Set the TST Hardtop on the vehicle
- Loosely install the included cargo-area bolts
- Attach and adjust the windshield latches
- Check door, tailgate, and rear glass alignment
- Tighten all bolts once fitment is confirmed
How does shipping work?
Your TST Hardtop ships in a custom wooden crate via national freight carriers. It ships fully insured with a transit time of 3-5 business days depending on location. Delivery is via 18-wheeler or large box truck; the driver unloads using a liftgate and places the crate where you want it. We ship nationwide for free.
Are TST Hardtops available locally? Do you ship?
Yes to both. We offer free nationwide shipping and also carry tops in-stock at our Katy, TX location. Bring your vehicle to us for free installation, and you're eligible for our Top Swap Program (trade in your current top). Trade In Program
What is the warranty on TST Hardtops?
TST Hardtops come with industry-leading coverage: a Limited Lifetime Warranty on the fiberglass shell and a 36-month warranty on hardware, latches, and components. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover damage caused by accidents, misuse, improper installation, or modifications. For full warranty terms, see: Warranty Information
Soft Tops
Is Top Swap Texas an authorized Bestop dealer?
Yes, we are a fully authorized Bestop dealer and carry their entire lineup. Start shopping here: Soft Tops
Is Bestop's quality comparable to the original soft top?
Yes. Bestop is the manufacturer of Jeep's official OEM soft tops, so the quality is directly comparable to what came on your Jeep from the factory.
What is the difference between Black Diamond and Twill fabrics?
Black Diamond has more of a vinyl feel and better matches the Jeep's original plastic fenders. It has a grey-colored interior. Twill is a darker, woven fabric with a black interior instead of grey, and has a softer, more textured look.
How does shipping work for soft tops?
All Bestop soft tops ship free directly from U.S. distributor warehouses. Most orders ship same day if placed before 3:00 PM CST.
Do you offer installation for soft tops?
Yes. If you're near our Katy, TX location, our Platinum Authorized Installers can install your new top. Labor rates vary. You can also trade in your existing top toward the purchase. Top Swaps
What are common issues seen with soft tops?
Modern soft tops can become loose because there is a cable that runs from the header of the fabric all the way to the back with a spring. When you close it, that spring is what keeps tension. This cable can break, which causes the soft top to become loose. A soft top can also become loose if the bar in the back is bent.
Trade-ins
How does the Top Swap program work?
Top Swap Texas was founded on the idea that everyone has different needs for their Jeep or Bronco. If you don't love your current top, trade it in for credit toward a new soft or hard top, just like trading in a vehicle at a dealership. Your trade-in value also reduces or eliminates sales tax on your new top.
Do you have financial incentives to help me swap my old top for a new one?
Yes. We'll give you credit for whatever top you have now, whether it's a hard top or a soft top. Even if the soft top has issues it still has value to us. This trade-in credit can be used to offset the price of a new top.
Can I trade in an old worn-out soft top?
Yes. We primarily resell the hardware, so the condition of the fabric is not a concern.
What is my hard top worth on trade?
It depends on the model, color, condition, and market demand. In many cases, a brand-new soft top costs little to no out-of-pocket after trade, and sometimes we even owe you money. If we install your new soft top, remember that installation typically takes 4+ hours, and labor is part of the overall value.
Can't I get more money by selling my hard top outright?
Maybe, but most customers prefer the turnkey convenience of trading in. The sales tax savings often outweigh any extra cash you might get selling privately.
eBay Store
Do you sell used soft top parts like brackets, windows, and hardware?
Yes. We stock a wide variety of used OEM and aftermarket soft top components. Shop our eBay store here: ebay.com/str/topswaptexas