Upper Door Skin and Frames

What these parts are

Many soft-top Jeeps use upper doors made of a steel or aluminum frame covered by a vinyl skin with a clear window. Over time, the vinyl fades and cracks, the zippers fail, and the window scratches or tears. Replacing the skin renews the door, and if the tube frame is bent or rusted, a new frame may be needed.

This category lists skins alone as well as skin-and-frame sets, so check each description.

Skin and frame options

• Skin only: for a sound frame, a new skin saves effort and matches your existing hardware.
• Skin with frame: for bent or corroded tubing or if you want a complete assembly.
• Frame only: a replacement structure on which to mount your existing skin.
• Materials: listings mention Black Diamond and Black Denim textures, both tough vinyl styles that match different soft top fabrics.

Matching your vehicle

Fitment is specific to the model and year range, and sometimes to two-door or four-door versions and left or right sides. Confirm fitment for your exact year, make and model. Compare the fabric texture and color with your existing top so the doors do not look mismatched.

Check what the set includes. Some are half-door skins that fit the upper portion above the lower door, and others cover the whole upper door. Look for included window material, zippers and mounting hardware.

Installation and care

Replacing a skin is a patient job. Remove the old fabric, clean the frame, and fit the new skin so that it is square and tight. Warm weather makes the vinyl easier to stretch. Take care that the frame still latches properly to the door and to the windshield.

Clean vinyl with a mild soap, avoid harsh solvents that can cloud the window, and treat clear windows gently. Do not fold windows when cold, since this can crease or crack them. Store removed doors upright and dry.

Further checks and care

Questions to ask before you choose

Look at the condition of the rest of the door. If the frame is straight and the latch works well, a skin alone is sensible. If the tube has rust, a bent corner or a weak weld, replace the whole assembly. Think about the window material too, as clear plastic scratches and yellows over time, and check that the replacement includes enough material for the full opening.

Measuring and confirming fitment

Door frames differ between two-door and four-door versions and between model generations, so compare dimensions and photos before ordering. Measure the frame width at the top and bottom, the height and the position of the latch. Check how the skin attaches, whether by zipper, channel or hook strips, and make sure the frame accepts that method. If you intend to mix brands, confirm that a skin from one maker will fit a frame from another.

Materials and care

Door skins use vinyl or similar coated fabrics, with stitching and seals around the window. The fabric weight and texture affect durability and how it looks next to a soft top. Frames are generally powder-coated steel tube. Keep zippers clean and lightly lubricated, wipe the window with a soft cloth, and dry the doors before storing them. Inspect seams and frame welds regularly for fatigue and replace parts that have deteriorated.