Defender. Manual - part 278
The convertible top at the rear of the cab area is secured with two flaps which are attached with velcro. From inside the
vehicle, the rearmost of the two flaps is wrapped around the support frame. Tension for the top is provided by three
straps. The center strap is pulled over the forward frame bar and pulled through the buckle to tension the top. This
process is repeated with the two outer straps which provide tension evenly over the top. The rear most flap is wrapped
around the support frame, concealing the straps. The forward flap is also wrapped around the support frame in the
opposite direction and the velcro attached to the rearmost flap, secures the flaps together.
On the outside of the convertible top, velcro straps are used to secure the top to the support frame where it protrudes
from the top.
The top is secured at the rear with a flap which locates on the hinged section of the rear support frame and secured
with velcro.
The handed side windows are zipped into position in the top. The top is attached to the rail on the body at each side of
the load area. The top is pulled down tightly to locate in the rail which applies tension to the top.
An elastic strap with a bridge plate attached, is positioned from the outside of the vehicle, through a gap between the
support frame and the vehicle body. The plate is positioned across the support frame and the vehicle body to secure
and the elastic strap maintains the tension on the front vertical edge of the side window and ensures they are located
tightly into the body channel.
At the rear of the vehicle, each corner of the top is attached to small rails on either side of the tail gate. The top is
pulled down tightly which applies tension to the top.
Five velcro straps are located on each side of the convertible top and secure the top to the support frame and the
hinged frame.
A metal spring loaded rod locates through a slot in the lower part of the rear window which is zipped in position. The
spring loaded rod locates in 2 receiver tubes attached to the top edge of the tail gate.
Removal is a reversal of the fitting process.
Stowage Locker
When the convertible top is removed, it can be carefully folded and stored in the locker in the rear of the load area. The
locker has a hinged lid which can be locked for security using the vehicle key.
Ensure the convertible top and window panels are dry before folding and storing in the locker.
Convertible Top Care Points
Do not use an automatic car wash. Doing so will cause damage to the hood.
Some high pressure cleaning systems are sufficiently powerful to damage hood fabrics. Never aim a high pressure water
jet at zips or seals.
If the hood is stained, it should be cleaned within 24 hours of the incident occurring, otherwise the stain may become
permanent.
Never use spirit, petrol or chlorine based cleaning agents, or wash/wax compounds to clean the hood and windows -
wax polishes will become ingrained in the textured finish.
Use a soft brush to remove dust and flaking dirt from the hood (not the windows), then soak with a mild soap and water
solution to soften encrusted dirt and remove stains, prior to washing.