2004 Merlot - seeking dimensions for the OEM top storage rack

[Mach5]

My 2004 Merlot did not come with the top storage rack. I would like to build my own. Would someone please provide the measurements from their OEM rack? Thanks!

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[Pacific-Coast]

Some pictures of an original top storage, which folds flat, will follow the following measurements.
1. Bottom or base when open is a U shape “pipe” with 4 caster type wheels attached. 34 inched accross and 19 inched deep. Stops ( to hold back/ rear window end of top) are approx. 1 to 1.5 inches high above top of the pipe frame.
2. When rack is open, the upward support ( holds the front / wIndshield end) provides a straight 24 inch pipe bar with rubber cushions on each end to rest the front of the top’s edge.
3.This vertical support is 18 inches tall from top of base pipe U shaped bar AND is “tilted” about 4 inches toward the front of the U pipe frame. I believe this will keep the top’s weight forward and against the Stops, as not to have the whole rack flip backwards with the hardtop on it.

 

[Pacific-Coast]

Some pictures of an original top storage, which folds flat, will follow the following measurements.
1. Bottom or base when open is a U shape “pipe” with 4 caster type wheels attached. 34 inched accross and 19 inched deep. Stops ( to hold back/ rear window end of top) are approx. 1 to 1.5 inches high above top of the pipe frame.
2. When rack is open, the upward support ( holds the front / wIndshield end) provides a straight 24 inch pipe bar with rubber cushions on each end to rest the front of the top’s edge.
3.This vertical support is 18 inches tall from top of base pipe U shaped bar AND is “tilted” about 4 inches toward the front of the U pipe frame. I believe this will keep the top’s weight forward and against the Stops, as not to have the whole rack flip backwards with the hardtop on it.

 

[jcoul1939]

The cheapest and easiest thing is to buy a a heavy duty rope pulley set and crank wench fromm Harbor Freight or similar outlet and tie to the ceiling of your garage right above where it would come off the car. This would also make a possible one person on/off.

 

[Gus Gutz]

Have you looked on eBay. You can find them for around 200. By the time you buy the parts to make one, you could probably spend a few more and get an original.

 

[Angry Bird]

Go for the ceiling solution, so easy to get the top off and you can do it by yourself. I had the ceiling hoist for years and I got tired of trying to find a neighbor to assist getting the roof on and off. I finally got the hoist out of the box and installed it in a half-hour not sure why it took me so long (10 years) procrastinating I guess. I paid obout $250 and it came with all the straps, ropes etc. Found it on eBay from another procastinator who had the same issues I guess.