Another hardtop question (fitment)
 

I was wondering if anyone was bored enough to maybe want to do some measuring, or maybe someone already has an idea of what I'm talking about. I have a double hoop BF roll bar, which is already non hardtop compatible, but I installed it slightly forward of where it should have been (by about 1/2'') so that may help. I want to know before I think about purchasing a top if it will physically fit.

Anyway, what I really need to know is the clearances or height of the hardtop vs the factory soft top frame. When the top is up, the clearance between the top of the roll bar cover and the frame hoop that crossed right above it is only about 1/8''-1/4''. If the hardtop were to sit any lower, it wouldn't fit. I'm guessing it would be slightly higher since I assume the shell of the hardtop is about equal in location to the skin of the soft top, so minus the inner framework.

I wasn't really aware before that you could run the hardtop without having to use the side latches (sure its better to, but the other thread seems to state its fine). Knowing this makes me want to go ahead and do something good to go towards tracking the car, since it needs a new top and a new top and seals would already cost $1000 or more, and a used hardtop, maybe half of that if I look around. Then remove the frame and save some weight at the same time.

I have the HDDD Non hard top Bar in my car... I did get a hard top, droped it on.. and the bar does TOUCH the top on the two outer edges... I put rub tape to prevent chafing, or wear into the top... But there is no stress, bending or pushing to make things latch or catch. Works fine overall.

The sides of the top for interior side latches is blocked by the vertical bars. I would have to make my own side latch, as i dont know if any of the aftermarket side latches would clear either. The factory latches are way to fat.

I would reccomend finding a miata buddy with a HT, and ask to just set it on your car.. you will get quick refrence atleast if your bar is too tall or not. Anyone measuring, and giving numbers could easily be different from where you measure...

Well, like I said, mine is installed a bit further forward than it should be, which should give it a bit of extra room I think, since where it would hit is after it starts curving down on the rear window area. Maybe I can find someone local who has a HT and will let me try it on for size.