Abstract: A clamping arrangement for removably securing an elongated header for a vehicle soft top to the windshield frame of a sport utility or other vehicle. The arrangement includes first and second clamp sections. The first section is fixedly attached to the header and the second section is pivotally mounted or otherwise movable relative to the first. The first clamp section includes a downwardly open hook portion that is positionable over a catch member of a footman loop mounted to the main body of the windshield frame. In operation of the preferred embodiment, the second clamp section engages the main body of the windshield wherein the first section and attached header are then rotated forwardly about the axis of the catch member. This forces or drives the header downwardly against the sealing cap on the top of the windshield frame where it is then secured in place.

Abstract: A multi-positionable storage arrangement with removable front and top panels that can be configured in a number of ways between two side panels to form a variety of both secured and open storage spaces. In the preferred configurations, the front, top, and side panels of the arrangement combine with the rear deck and tailgate of the vehicle to enclose a securable storage space. In use, the front panel can be slid substantially vertically into one of three sets of grooves in the side panels. One or more of the top panels can thereafter be slid horizontally in grooves in the side panels until the forward most top panel abuts and overlaps the front panel. The closed tailgate then abuts the rearward most top panel securing the top and front panels in place. Additional grooves are provided in the side panels immediately adjacent the front panel and when not in use, the three top panels can be conveniently and compactly stored immediately adjacent the front panel and each other.

Abstract: A clamping arrangement for removably securing an elongated header for a vehicle soft top to the windshield frame of a sport utility or other vehicle. The arrangement includes first and second clamp sections. The first section is fixedly attached to the header and the second section is pivotally mounted or otherwise movable relative to the first. The first clamp section includes a downwardly open hook portion that is positionable over a catch member of a footman loop mounted to the main body of the windshield frame. In operation of the preferred embodiment, the second clamp section engages the main body of the windshield wherein the first section and attached header are then rotated forwardly about the axis of the catch member. This forces or drives the header downwardly against the sealing cap on the top of the windshield frame where it is then secured in place.

Abstract: A storage system for sport utility hardtops and other vehicle parts including accessories. The system includes a storage cart that can be secured to the rear portion of the hardtop while the hardtop is still positioned atop the vehicle body. The hardtop and secured cart can then be lifted off the vehicle body as a unit and the cart placed on a garage floor or other horizontal surface. The stored hardtop is essentially upright on the cart and takes up a minimum of floor space. The cart preferably has rollers and the upright hardtop and cart can be easily and quickly moved across the floor to any convenient storage area and enclosed in a protective cover. The storage system also includes a caddy for the other vehicle parts including accessories. The caddy is designed to mate with the cart and the hardtop stored on it.

Abstract: A vehicle shield is provided according to the invention. The vehicle shield is constructed to avoid excessive hood flutter. The shield includes a hood protector region and an attachment region. The hood protector region is constructed for extending across at least a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The attachment region is constructed for attaching the hood protector region to a vehicle. Also provided is a method of installing the shield to a motor vehicle.