10 best windshield channels
Windshield channels, also known as windshield frames or windshield surrounds, are integral components of a vehicle's body structure. They play a critical role in supporting and sealing the windshield glass and are essential for the structural integrity and safety of the vehicle. Here's what you need to know about windshield channels in the context of automotive body trim and replacement parts:
Structural Support: Windshield channels are typically made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, and are designed to provide structural support to the windshield. They help maintain the windshield's shape and position, ensuring it stays securely in place.
Sealing: Windshield channels serve as a seal around the edge of the windshield glass. A rubber gasket or weatherstripping is often used to create a watertight and airtight seal between the windshield and the channel. This seal helps prevent water, dust, and air from entering the vehicle's interior.
Attachment Points: The windshield is attached to the vehicle's body through the windshield channels. It is usually secured in place with screws, bolts, or clips that fasten the windshield to the channel, which is, in turn, attached to the vehicle's body.
Aesthetic Considerations: Windshield channels can also have aesthetic value as they contribute to the overall look of the vehicle's front end.Many manufacturers design windshield channels to match the style and design of the vehicle.
Replacement Parts: Over time, windshield channels can deteriorate due to exposure to the elements, accidents, or corrosion. When this happens, it may be necessary to replace the windshield channel to maintain the structural integrity of the vehicle and ensure the windshield's proper sealing. Replacement windshield channels are available through automotive parts suppliers and may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
Installation: Replacing a windshield channel is a complex task and is typically performed by experienced auto body professionals. It involves removing the old channel, ensuring proper alignment, and installing the new channel to ensure a secure and watertight fit.
Safety: Properly functioning windshield channels are crucial for vehicle safety. They help keep the windshield in place during accidents, preventing it from shattering or dislodging, which can protect occupants in the event of a collision.
In summary, windshield channels are essential components of a vehicle's body trim and play a crucial role in supporting and sealing the windshield. They contribute to both the structural integrity and safety of the vehicle while also serving aesthetic and functional purposes. If a windshield channel becomes damaged or deteriorated, it's important to replace it promptly to ensure the continued safety and functionality of the vehicle.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best windshield channels on the market
Bestop 51238-01 Black Header Windshield Channel for 1997-2006 Wrangler TJ
Bestop
Product description
Bestop Windshield Channel is required for the installation of Bikini top, and is model-specific for exact fit on the vehicle, and with specific Bikini Top used. Corrosion-resistant steel. Header-style no-drill windshield channel is used only on 1997-current Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited. 1-year Limited Warranty.
- No-drill, 1-pc. header channel design
- Corrosion-resistant finish for durability
- Durable shaped steel construction
- Uses factory windshield header latch points; latch bolts included
- Required to mount Header Channel style Bikini Top
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this product remove along with the soft top when I drop the soft top or does this product need to be stationary at all times |
| Answer: | Not heavy |
| Question: | I have a Mopar soft top on my wrangler, no weather strip or seal on windsheild. Would this do the job? Wind noise and air gap are there now |
| Answer: | I do not find this pan to be heavy at all. There is some weight to it but by no means is it heavy. |
| Question: | Can u put ur top on over this |
| Answer: | NO. It is much more durable than teflon. |
| Question: | Will this Bestop windshield header only work with Bestop tops or will it also work with other brand tops |
| Answer: | Yes, the saucepan are designed with visual vent. |
Product features
Attach Bikini top to your vehicle
Drill-in style
Secures tightly to your Jeep
Durable and design to last
Windshield Channel
To attach a Bikini to your vehicle, you need a Windshield Channel. Carefully check the condition of existing channel to make sure it’s tightly attached and free of rust or corrosion. If you have a hardtop on your vehicle, a windshield channel must be installed for the Bikini to fit. Some windshield channels require drilling to install.
Smittybilt 90106 Header Windshield Channel for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
Smittybilt
Product description
The Smittybilt Quick Detach Windshield Header is specifically designed to work with a brief top or soft top. Easy to install as it can be attached or detached quickly. No drilling is required.
- Fits 2007-18 Jeep Wrangler JK 2/4-door
- Works with Smittybilt and other aftermarket accessories
- Fits on top of windshield frame
- Gloss black finish
- Tighten knobs to install; No drilling required
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this windshield channel work with the bestop pavement ends top |
| Answer: | I’m not sure, but if you decide to return this item. The seller will not get back in touch with you about a refund. Been waiting on a refund for two weeks now. Awful customer service. |
| Question: | The smittybilt bikini top reccomends part "#90105 windshield channel". Is this compatable as well? 08 jeep Jk |
| Answer: | Yes it is |
Smittybilt 90104 Windshield Channel for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ,Black
Smittybilt
Product description
Smittybilt Windshield Channel is designed for convenient driving. It is made from strong material that lasts long and is weather resistant. This windshield channel requires no tools and ensures easy installation.
- Fits 1997-06 Jeep TJ
- Specifically designed to fit Smittybilt soft tops
- Gloss black finish
- Attaches to windshield header
- No drilling required
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this work with a Rampage 109535 frameless soft top? It looks identical to a Rampage 901004 windshield channel |
| Answer: | It works great on a 9 TJ with bikini top.... |
| Question: | How does this attach to the windshield? Does it clamp down like the stock soft top and hard top does? Or doe you have to screw it on and off every tim |
| Answer: | It attaches with the clamps just like a hard top and soft top |
| Question: | What can I do Lots of air noise coming from my soft top |
| Answer: | Bikini and safari tops are louder than regular tops. The only thing you can do to lessen the wind noise is to make sure your top is as tight as possible. If the noise is near the windshield, make sure your top is fully seated inside the slot on the channel. |
| Question: | Can I use my hard top with this channel installed |
| Answer: | No, you cannot. There is no need for a windshield channel when you have a hardtop installed. You will need a windshield channel for a soft top, bikini tops, etc. Once you remove your hardtop then you can install a windshield and a soft top. |
Smittybilt 90101 Windshield Channel
Smittybilt
Product description
Smittybilt Windshield Channel is designed for convenient driving. It is made from strong material that lasts long and is weather resistant. This windshield channel requires no tools and ensures easy installation.
- Designed for convenient driving
- Made from strong material
- Weather resistant
- Requires no tools
- Ensures easy installation
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this permanently secure the bikini top material to the top of the windshield? How does the bikini top attach |
| Answer: | The header is bolted to the windshield and has a channel in it for your top to slide into, but your top needs to have the lip on it that slides into the channel to cut out the wind and this also forms weather protection. Hope this helps |
| Question: | Does this come with screws |
| Answer: | No because it attaches where your hard top would |
| Question: | doe this fit a cj |
| Answer: | Works great with my rampage frameless top |
RAMPAGE PRODUCTS 901004 Windshield Channel Header for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ, Black
RAMPAGE PRODUCTS
Product description
Rampage Windshield Channel for your 97-06 Jeep Wrangler TJ is designed for Jeeps that do not have a soft top windshield channel, They are recommended for use when converting your hard top to a soft top or a brief top. Windshield Channel securely mounts to existing factory slots. Constructed of powder-coated steel with serviceable molded contoured ABS end caps secured with screws not rivets.
- Securely mounts to existing factory mounting slots in upper windshield frame without drilling
- Recommended for use with Rampage Frameless Tops, Combo Tops, Briefs, Island Toppers and Cab tops for 1997-2006 Wrangler
- Powder-coated steel with serviceable molded contoured ABS end caps secured with screws not rivets.
- Can be used with most aftermarket Briefs, Island Toppers and Safaris from other manufacturer’s.
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
User questions & answers
| Question: | How about some instructions? And don't send one that's been returned! I may be returning this one |
| Answer: | Any metal pan can scratch your glass stove top, keep the surfaces CLEAN and avoid the abrasion carbon build-up causes....there are no sharp surfaces or edges on the bottom of these pans that will cause scratching |
| Question: | ok, my friend gave me a soft top from a 2007 wrangler. I am altering it to fit bikini/sunshade style on my 2000 tj . Will this channel work for that |
| Answer: | ptfe was dangerous chemical coating for non stick applications in cookware, I believe that its not used in the usa today. Pfoa is supposedly safe as it has a very high melting point. This product however, does contain either substance. its PFOA and PTFE free |
| Question: | Mine does not seem to fit snug to the windshield so I have a leak when it rains. Does it have a seal of anytype that comes with it. Mine did'nt |
| Answer: | I would contact the maker for the information about the coating safety. I do have this set and I absolutely love it! Nothing sticks and it's easy care. |
| Question: | Will this still allow for installation of a hard top without removal? Looking for a channel that does not have to be removed to put my hard top on |
| Answer: | its not real wood so yes, the handles are VERY durable and they look nice too while being dishwasher and over proof |
Bestop 51209-01 Black Windshield Channel for 1976-1995 CJ5, CJ7, Wrangler; 1964-1984 Toyota Land Cruiser, FJ40
Bestop
Product description
Bestop Windshield Channel is required for the installation of Bikini top, and is model-specific for exact fit on the vehicle, and with specific Bikini Top used. Corrosion-resistant steel. Header-style no-drill windshield channel is used only on 1997-current Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited. 1-year Limited Warranty.
- Drill-in style channel with 2-pc. design
- Corrosion-resistant finish for durability
- Durable shaped steel construction
- Mounting hardware, screws and instructions included
- Required to mount Strapless Bikini Top
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this have the tabs on both sides to hook the top down also? The little button like tabs |
| Answer: | No, there are no tabs on the side of the windshield retainer. Some windshields have a snap that allow for certain tops/Bikini's to snap to though. |
| Question: | Will this work with the Supertop |
| Answer: | Yes it will! |
| Question: | Will it fit on a 1960 cj |
| Answer: | No. The windshield, whilst derived from earlier models, changed shape in 1976. I know it does not fit my 1951 as there is no outside ledge in front. |
| Question: | Will this fit with a hard top |
| Answer: | It will fit, yes, since the windshield retainer is on the inside of the windshield and the hardtop sits on top of the windshield, so theres no interference. |
Product features
Attach Bikini top to your vehicle
Drill-in style
Secures tightly to your Jeep
Durable and design to last
Windshield Channel
To attach a Bikini to your vehicle, you need a Windshield Channel. Carefully check the condition of existing channel to make sure it’s tightly attached and free of rust or corrosion. If you have a hardtop on your vehicle, a windshield channel must be installed for the Bikini to fit. Some windshield channels require drilling to install.
RAMPAGE PRODUCTS 901007 Black Windshield Channel for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
RAMPAGE PRODUCTS
Product description
Rampage Windshield Channel is designed to be used for the vehicles that do not have a soft top windshield channel. They are recommended for use when converting your hard top to a soft top or a brief top. It features self adjusting channel that facilitates quick installation. This windshield channel is custom designed to fit all vehicles. It is designed to match the Original Equipment Style quality. This windshield channel is given an attractive black powder coated finish. It is backed by 90 days manufacturer warranty.
- Securely mounts to existing factory mounting slots in upper windshield frame without drilling.
- Recommended for use with Rampage Frameless Tops, Combo Tops, Briefs, Island Toppers and Cab tops for 97-06 Wrangler.
- Powder-coated steel with serviceable molded contoured ABS end caps secured with screws not rivets.
- Can be used with most aftermarket Briefs, Island Toppers and Safaris from other manufacturer’s.
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
User questions & answers
| Question: | I have a 2013 2dr jeep with the factory soft top. Will I need this if I want to get the rampage frameless top |
| Answer: | Yes. It should be able to make it! |
| Question: | is their anything that can help reduce noice in the jeep from the soft top |
| Answer: | mine had no seal with it and i haven't had any leaks yet. used it all summer with a lot of rain , maybe it's your rubber seal that it sits on that needs replaced. |
| Question: | Anyone know if you can purchase the knobs only that go with this bar? One i ordered came with the knob plastic broken. Couldnt return, time expired |
| Answer: | There is not one like that available. The channel takes about 5 minutes to attach and remove with 2 bolts on top of windshield. I find it not to be a problem to change out going from my bikini top to my hard top. |
| Question: | Will this fit a 4 door 2012 jeep wrangler |
| Answer: | Hey Dominic, the header is installed when the soft top is down. |
APDTY 109324 Add-On Windshield Channel Set
Product description
Brand New Add-On Windshield Channel Set
Fits 1976-1995 Jeep CJ or YJ Wrangler
Requires Drilling
This Windshield Channel is designed for aftermarket beach toppers, combo toppers and bowless replacement tops. Installs to factory windshield frame and includes all hardware needed for installation.
⚠ California Proposition 65 WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
- Designed For Aftermarket Beach Toppers, Combo Toppers And Bowless Replacement Tops
- Installs To Factory Windshield Frame; Drilling Required, Screws Included
- Fits 1976-1986 Jeep CJ
- Fits 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ
Bestop 51210-01 Black Drill-in Style Windshield Channel for 1997-2002 Wrangler TJ
Bestop
Product description
Bestop Windshield Channel is required for the installation of Bikini top, and is model-specific for exact fit on the vehicle, and with specific Bikini Top used. Corrosion-resistant steel. Header-style no-drill windshield channel is used only on 1997-current Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited. 1-year Limited Warranty.
- Drill-in style channel with 2-pc. design
- Corrosion-resistant finish for durability
- Durable shaped steel construction
- Mounting hardware, screws and instructions included
- Required to mount Strapless Bikini Top
User questions & answers
| Question: | Which model fits the Jeep branded bikini? It has a round plastic rod and inserts from the side |
| Answer: | Yes you will. |
| Question: | Is the channel where the top slides in "C" shape |
| Answer: | I have tried a few things. You just have to make sure that it |
| Question: | If i want to use my bolt on header channel for my shorter bikini do i have to remove this drill in one |
| Answer: | On Rampage part #901007 we do not have the knobs available to send out as a separate item. You can contact [email protected] with your proof of purchase to be considered for warranty replacement. |
| Question: | Can I leave this on and put hardtop over it |
| Answer: | I have a 2012 Wrangler Sport 2 door. This does not fit. Have to return. The brackets are not compatible with the interior windshield footmen. Maybe the Sahara models have longer footmen. |
Product features
Attach Bikini top to your vehicle
Drill-in style
Secures tightly to your Jeep
Durable and design to last
Windshield Channel
To attach a Bikini to your vehicle, you need a Windshield Channel. Carefully check the condition of existing channel to make sure it’s tightly attached and free of rust or corrosion. If you have a hardtop on your vehicle, a windshield channel must be installed for the Bikini to fit. Some windshield channels require drilling to install.
Rugged Ridge 13308.04 Windshield Channel, No Drill; 97-06 Jeep Wrangler TJ
Rugged Ridge
Product description
These upgraded preassembled no drill windshield headers install quickly and easily! Just attach your Brief/Island Topper and place the header channel on the top of your windshield, slide the clamps onto the supplied knobs and clamp the channel in place. That’s it! The channel is now securely held in place and ready for summer wheeling. No drilling or modifications required.
- Black
- No Drilling required
- Use with Summer Brief or Island Toppers
- Limited 5 Year Warranty
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this work on a Bestop safari top |
| Answer: | After you attach the metal strips to the top of the windshield, the leading edge of the bikini top slides into a channel in the strip. You can remove the top easily from the strip by simply sliding its front edge out of the channel. |
| Question: | Will this work for 1987 Jeep Wranger YJ |
| Answer: | Will come with installation packet. |
| Question: | Which item should I use if I want to I clip the top like the factory piece rather than having to unbolt the whole top to lower it |
| Answer: | This is my first Jeep Wrangler. Mine is a 1995 Sahara and it fit fine. As far as fitting a CJ7, I'm unsure. |
| Question: | Will this work with the Rugged ridge Bowless top |
| Answer: | they had instructions online for the windshield track to be installed. you need to install the bar first and then run the bikini top thru the groove in the windshield track. then there are straps at back of bikini top that need to be tightened around the roll bar , i had to loosen the sound bar next to roll bar to slip buckles through. it is a tough install , took me about 3 hours on my own. you can always google or you tube the install, that helped as well. |
Product features
Rugged Ridge Windshield Header
These upgraded preassembled Windshield Headers from Rugged Ridge install quickly and easily. Just attach your Brief/Island Topper and place the header channel on the top of your windshield, slide the clamps onto the supplied knobs and clamp the channel in place. The channel is now securely held in place and ready for summer wheeling. No drilling or modifications required!
Warning
Loss of vehicle control involves risk of death or serious injury, particularly to parts of your body not restrained within vehicle. This product is intended for weather protection only and should not be relied upon to contain occupants in the event of an accident or to protect from either ground contact or falling objects. To reduce risk of accident injury:
-Always wear seat belts
-Read and follow all instructions and warnings accompanying this product, in vehicle owner’s manual and Off Road Driving Supplement.
About Rugged Ridge
Rugged Ridge develops and sells Jeep parts accessories for the growing Jeep and off road enthusiast market. Rugged Ridge is a division of Omix-ADA, replacement and restoration Jeep parts. With this know-how and experience the Rugged Ridge pedigree is well established in the Jeep market and with the Jeep enthusiast. Realizing that there was a need for new Jeep accessories, the Rugged Ridge brand was established in 2005 to fill that need. Rugged Ridge has designed and manufactured over 3,000 products for the Jeep market and continues to develop hundreds of additional Jeep accessories each year.
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