SmarterHome P8 Jeep Gladiator Hard Top Lifter Instruction Manual

Hard Top Lifter
Jeep Gladiator

INSTALLATION MANUAL

Safety Information

WARNING
Failure to follow these safety and installation instructions may result in property damage, serious personal injury, or death.

1. Read and follow all safety, installation, and operation instructions.
2. Do not lift with Hard Top Lifter while hands or other body parts are near the system.
3. Do not stand under the Hard Top Lifter.
4. Do not use Hard Top Lifter to lift people or animals.
5. Do not use Hard Top Lifter to lift or lower items over people or animals.
6. Total lifting capacity for Hard Top Lifter is 175 lbs.
7. Always balance load before lifting.

About Hard Top Lifter

The Hard Top Lifter is intended for home and garage use only. It is designed to lift vehicle hardtops off the vehicle to the ceiling for easy storage. The Hard Top Lifter is not intended for use in commercial or industrial applications.

Product Identifier

What’s in the Box

Hard Top Lifter Installation – Overview and Required Tools

NOTE
The frame should be assembled on the floor, raised to the ceiling, and then lowered onto the roof of the vehicle.

Required Tools (not included)

• Drill
• Ratchet with ½” Socket
• Stud Finder
• Ladder
• Safety Glasses
• Pencil
• Tape Measure

Step 1: Install Smart Track

• Lag bolts used to secure Smart Track must be centered in ceiling joists.
• If you are not confident locating and anchoring items to ceiling joists do not attempt this installation.
• Smart Track is designed to be installed with two lag bolts. Load must only be applied between lag bolts.
• Smart Track is designed to be secured to flat garage ceilings. DO NOT mount the Smart Track to walls or angled ceilings. Failure to follow instructions could result in property damage, serious injury, or death.
• If you have any questions or concerns about the quality of your ceiling structure discontinue installation and consult a structural engineer.

Step 1: Install Smart Track

1. Decide where to place your Hard Top Lifter Lifter by parking your vehicle in the desired location and assuring there is enough space around the vehicle to open the doors, access the hardtop. Be sure to consider garage doors, overhead lights etc. that could  interfere with Hard Top Lifter Lifter operation.

2. Determine where each Smart Track will need to be installed.

3. Smart Track must be installed across two ceiling joists and will need to be placed 15” apart on center as shown. (Fig 1.1)

4. Use a stud finder to find the ceiling joist that is nearest to your desired installation location.

5. Mark the left edge, right edge and center of the joist. (fig 2.2, 2.3, 2.4)
   

6. Place the Smart Track over the center mark you made for the ceiling joist and use a pencil to mark where the lag bolts will be installed so you can drill the pilot holes.
   Be sure the markings are along the center of the ceiling joist.

7. Using the included 6mm drill bit, drill the first vertical pilot hole at least three inches into the center point of the mark you made.

8. Use a rachet with a 1/2 inch socket to attach the Smart Track to the ceiling using one of the included lag bolts and washers. Do not completely tighten the lag bolt at this point. NOTE: If the lag bolt turns freely, your pilot hole is likely not hitting the ceiling  joist. If this is the case, find the center of the stud and drill a new pilot hole.

9. Repeat steps 4-6 to find the center of the joist where you will secure the other end of the Smart Track.

10. Tighten both lag bolts so the Smart Track is flush and secure against the ceiling.

11. Repeat the above steps for each remaining Smart Track that needs to be installed.

12. Before moving to the next step be sure the lag bolts for all Smart Track are tightened and secure against the ceiling.

CAUTION
Do NOT use an impact driver to insert the lag bolts into the stud. This could over tighten the screws causing them to fail, which may result in property damage, serious personal injury, or death.

13. Repeat steps 4-6 to find the center of the joist where you will secure the other end of the Smart Track.
14. Tighten both lag bolts so the Smart Track is flush and secure against the ceiling.
15. Repeat the above steps for each remaining Smart Track that needs to be installed.

THIS PAGE CAN BE REMOVED. I COMBINED ABOVE COPY ON PAGE 9.
DOUBLE CHECK PAGE NUMBERING DUE TO CHANGE.

CAUTION
Before moving to next step be sure that lag bolts for all Smart Track is tightened, flush and secure against the ceiling.

Step 2: Install MyLifter Hoists

1. Before installing the MyLifters onto Smart Track pair to each MyLifter. This is important to ensure you can troubleshoot any potential pairing issues before installing them.

2. Download the MyLifter app from the App Store or Google Play (fig 2.1).

3. Open the app and tap “Add Devices” in the bottom right corner to open the “Available Lifters” screen.

4. Firmly press the pair button next to the status light on the MyLifter. (fig 2.2)

5. When the pair button is pushed the status light will rapidly blink green until the MyLifter is paired with the app. Once the MyLifter is paired with the app the light will blink orange and the device will move from the “Unpaired Devices” section to the “Newly  Paired Devices” section.

6. On the “Available Lifters” screen, your newly paired MyLifter should be displayed with its corresponding MAC address as the default name. You can edit the MyLifter name by tapping “Edit” in the upper right corner. (fig 2.3)

7. Repeat steps 3-5 for all MyLifters that need to be paired.
   

8. Now Group the two MyLifters you’ll be using. This ensures the MyLifters function together.

9. On the home screen, click “Create Group” in the bottom left corner and choose “Locked Group” on the screen that opens. (fig 2.4)

10. Select the devices to include in the group from the “Eligible Devices” section and give the group a name in the “Name The Group” text box. (fig 2.5)

11. Tap “Create Group” at the bottom of the screen and “Got It” on the dialog box. The “Device Control” screen will open prompting you to level each MyLifter.

12. Tap “Create Group” at the bottom of the screen and “Got It” on the dialog box. The “Device Control” screen will open prompting you to level each

13. To level each MyLifter in the group, click each MyLifter one-by-one (they’re listed at the bottom of the “Device Control” screen) and adjust the cable length so each MyLifter cable is the same length/distance from the floor. NOTE: You may have to make  additional adjustments once you’ve attached the Hard Top Lifter Frame.

14. Once you’ve leveled each MyLifter, tap “Set Group Level”.
    | A. SET HIGH AND LOW POINTS
    Program Smart High and Smart Low points for safety and convenience.
    B. LOAD GAUGE
    Indicates the percentage of weight MyLifter is lifting relative to its lifting capacity.
    C. SMART LIFT AND SMART LOWER
    Lift and lower your items to preset Smart High and Smart Low with one tap.
    D. VARIABLE SPEED CONTROLLER
    Press and hold to activate variable speed slider to lift/lower ensuring perfect placement  of your items.
    E. MANUAL LIFT OR LOWER BUTTONS
    Press and hold these buttons to manually lift or lower your items at full speed.
    ---|---

NOTE
To make further adjust and ensure your item is level, tap the “Help” button and select “Level Group”. Then tap on the MyLifter you’d like to adjust and make the necessary adjustments.

15. Now that you’ve successfully paired to each MyLifter and created a group, the MyLifters can be installed on the Smart Track.
16. Each MyLifter must be placed on Smart Track between two lag bolts to ensure proper support.
17. Mount the MyLifters on the Smart Track 15” apart. They can be mounted on the same Smart Track (Fig 2.6), or on opposite Smart Tracks (Fig 2.7), depending on the direction of the ceiling joists relative to the vehicle.
18. To install MyLifter on Smart Track, align the holes in the MyLifter frame with the holes on the Smart Track. NOTE: All MyLifters should be installed with the DC power input end of the MyLifter facing in the same direction. This is imperative to ensure  proper operation of the MyLifter(s).
19. Insert the two included quick-release pins through the holes in the MyLifter frame and the Smart Track. Make sure the pins go all the way through both sides of the MyLifter frame and Smart Track. Repeat this for each MyLifter that you are installing.
    NOTE
    NOTE: Each MyLifter must be installed between two lag bolts and in the same orientatio

Step 3: Install Power Adapters and Cable Management Clips

1. For each MyLifter you’ve installed on the Smart Track, determine where the Power Adapter should be installed. The preferred location, if possible, is adjacent to the MyLifter. (fig 3.1 and fig 3.2)
   

2. Confirm the power cord will reach a power outlet and the DC cable will reach the MyLifter. Keep in mind, each Power Adapter is equipped with our patented power passthrough technology so you can power multiple MyLifters from one power outlet.

3. Clip the universal mounting bracket, included with the Power Adapter, onto the Smart Track. The nubs should snap into place. (fig 3.3)

4. Align the pins with the holes on the back for the Power Adapter. Press the Power Adapter onto the pins and slide to lock it into place. (fig 3.4)

5. To secure and organize the cables, determine where to place the cable management clips.

6. Peel the adhesive backing off a cable management clip and place it on the ceiling. Be sure to press firmly to ensure it sticks. (fig 4.3)

7. Secure the cable management clip with a screw, place all wires into the clip, and securely close the clip. (fig 4.4)

8. Repeat steps 5-7 for additional cable management clips to secure and organize cables.

9. You can also organize cables by winding the excess cable around the power adapter housing or placing the cable in the Smart Track. (fig 4.5)

10. Once you have organized the cables you can install the gray Smart Track cable covers. (fig 4.6)

11. Once all Power Adapters have been installed, connect them to the closest outlet (this may be a wall outlet or the power pass through on another Power Adapter).

12. The LED on the Power Adapter will glow when powered on.

13. Connect the DC cable from the Power Adapter to its corresponding MyLifter.
    NOTE
    Additional Garage Smart products with AC connections can be powered by connecting their AC cable to the AC outlet on the Power Adapter.

Step 4: Assemble Hard Top Lifter Frame
Assemble Length Adjusters

1. Find the four length adjusters. There are two wide length adjusters (A) and two narrow length adjusters (B).
2. Lay the two narrow length adjusters inside the two wide length adjusters with the square holes at opposite ends. Make sure the u-shape of the length adjusters opens upward. (fig 4.1)

Add Pulley Frames and Attach Hard Top Frame to MyLifters

1. Set a pulley frame (I) into the groove along each of the length adjusters. (Fig 4.2)
2. Count 10 holes along the narrow length adjuster starting at the end with the square opening. Align this hole with the end of the wide length adjuster and insert a short quick-release pin. In the 18th hole from the same end insert a short quick release pin to  attach the pulley frame as shown. (Fig 4.2) Now place a short quick-release pin through the 34th hole, which should be the last hole on the narrow length adjuster. Place the last quick-release pin in the 35th hole, which should be the last hole in the pulley  frame. (Fig 4.2) (NOTE: This is a good starting point to determine balance. Further adjustments may be required once the frame is attached to the hardtop).

Assemble Width Adjusters

1. Find the two wide width adjusters (C) and slide them through the square holes in the length adjusters as shown with the u-shape facing upward. (Fig 4.3)

2. Find the two short narrow width adjusters (D) and slide the end without the hook into each end of one of the wide width adjusters with the u-shape facing upward. This is the front of the frame. (Fig 4.4)

3. Adjust each of the short narrow width adjusters so the first hole (the hole closest to end without the hook) on the width adjusters align with the hole on the end of the wide width adjuster.

4. Place a long quick-release pin (F) through each of the two holes on the width adjusters where they align with the length adjusters. Each pin should be holding three parts in place – the length adjuster, the wide width adjuster, and the short narrow width    adjuster. This is the front of the frame.

5. Now find the two long narrow width adjusters (E) and slide the end without the hook into each end of one of the wide width adjusters with the u-shape facing upward. (Fig 4.5)
   

6. Adjust each of the long narrow width adjusters so the last hole (the hole closest to end with the hook) on the long narrow width adjusters align with the hole on the end of the wide width adjuster. (Fig 4.6)

7. Place a long quick-release pin (E) through each of the two holes on the width adjusters where they align with the length adjusters. Each pin should be holding three parts in place – the length adjuster, the wide width adjuster, and the short width adjuster.  (Fig 4.7). This is the front of the frame.

Add Foam Blocks

1. Slide the foam blocks onto the width adjusters as shown. (Fig 4.8) Four foam blocks go on the back width adjusters and two foam blocks go on the front width adjusters
   

Add Pulley Frames and Attach Hard Top Frame to MyLifters

1. Place the frame under the MyLifters and, using the app, extend the MyLiftecables so they’re long enough to reach the floor and back up to the Smart Track.

2. Pass each cable through the appropriate pulley frame. Each cable should pass under both pulleys on each of the pulley frames. (Fig 4.9)
   CAUTION
   Lifting your hardtop at an angle can damage the MyLifter.

3. Using a ladder, attach each cable eyelet to the Smart Track using a carabiner. Refer back to figures 2.6 and 2.7 on page 13 if you have questions about carabiner placement.

4. Use the MyLifter app to raise the Hard Top frame until it’s high enough to position your vehicle under the frame. Be sure the vehicle is placed/parked directly below the fame so the hardtop will not be lifted at an angle.

Step 5: Attach Hard Top Lifter

1. Remove roof panels from front of hardtop and place them in storage bag (not included).
2. Unbolt the hardtop from the vehicle and unhook any electrical cables. For details, refer to your vehicles’s owner manual.
3. Slowly lower the hardtop frame onto the hardtop. (Fig 5.1)
4. This is a good time to set the Low “Smart Point”. Refer to the MyLifter Manual for App instructions. NOTE: Smart Points make it easy to raise and lower the hardtop to specific high and low locations with the touch of a button. (Fig 5.2)
   NOTE
   The frame will not be level if it’s not attached to the hardtop.
   It should be leveled after the hardtop is attached and all relevant cargo (e.g. roof panels) is stowed.
   CAUTION
   Be sure to remove all bolts and unhook all electrical and fluid lines according to your vehicle owner’s manual.
   1. Feed the non-adjustable ends (front) of the cargo net (K) between the hardtop and the roof support/roll bars. (Fig 5.3a, b)
   2. Attach the non-adjustable ends of the cargo net to the hooks on each end of the width adjusters on the front of the frame. Attach the loop by first sliding it past the hook and then feeding it into the hook. (Fig 5.4a, b, & c)
   3. Place the rubber shims / wedges (included with your roof panel storage bag) between the hardtop and Gladiator body to create space between frame and Gladiator body. (Fig 5.5)
   Alternatively you can lift the hardtop and feed straps between hardtop and body.
   4. Feed the adjustable ends (back) of the cargo net between the hardtop and the body of the Gladiator.
   5. Attach the adjustable ends of the cargo net to the rear width adjusters (one to each end) by sliding the loop past the hook then feeding it into the hook. (Fig 5.4a, b, & c)
   
   6. Make sure the straps are snug, but don’t over tighten them. (Fig5.6)
   7. Ensure the metal adjuster brackets on the adjustable ends of the straps ARE NOT resting against the hardtop or any other surface where they could cause damage. (Fig 5.7) (If installed correctly, the metal adjuster brackets should not make contact with  the hardtop or any other surface.) (Fig5.7)
   CAUTION
   Be sure that all load bearing straps do not rest on any fragile or breakable items.

CAUTION
Be sure to remove all bolts and unhook all electrical and fluid lines according to your vehicle owner’s manual.

Step 7: Remove Hardtop

1. Before removing the hardtop make one last check to ensure all the bolts holding the hardtop in place have been removed as well as all eletrical and fluid lines have been unhooked.

2. Slowly lift the hardtop free using the app to raise the hardtop to the desired height/position. (fig 7.1) DO NOT run the pulley frames into the lifters as this can damage them. NOTE: The hardtop will not be balanced until the roof panels are added to the  cargo net. Keep this in mind as you remove/raise your hardtop initially so your hartop doesn’t hit the ceiling.

3. If you still need to place roof panels into the cargo net, move your vehicle out of the way so you can lower the hardtop for easier access.
   CAUTION
   Do not overload your cargo net while hardtop is in the lifted position or it will not lower.

4. Lower the hardtop to chest height and place the roof panels into the cargo net.
   We recommend putting the panels in their storage bag (not included) to protect them during storage.

5. If the hardtop is leaning forward, lower it to the ground and adjust the pulley frames forward. Be sure not to change/adjust the length of the frame when adjusting the position of the pulley frames.

6. If the hardtop is leaning backward, lower it to the ground and adjust the pulley frames backward. Be sure not to change/adjust the length of the frame when adjusting the position of the pulley frames.

7. Repeat above steps until the load is balanced. (Adjustments are only necessary during setup. Subsequent removals should not need any adjustment.)

8. Lift the hardtop to the ceiling. Be sure NOT to lift it too high to avoid running the pulley frames into the lifters. Doing so can cause damage to the lifters.

9. If you haven’t already, this is a good time to set the High “Smart Point”. Refer to the MyLifter Manual for App instructions. NOTE: Smart Points make it easy to raise and lower the hardtop to specific high and low locations with the touch of a button. (Fig  7.2)
   CAUTION
   Do NOT run the Pulley frames into the MyLifter. This can damage MyLifters.

FAQs

How much weight can my Hard Top Kit lift?

This product uses two lifters and each lifter has a 100lb lifting capacity. The hardtop frame weighs about 25 lbs resulting in a net weight lifting capacity of 175 lbs. DO NOT use more than two lifters to lift more than the designed weight limit.

How much weight can the cargo net hold?

The cargo net supports BOTH the hardtop and any cargo placed in the cargo net (e.g. roof panels). It can hold up to 175 lbs when the weight is evenly distributed. DO NOT point load the fabric or hang all the weight on one strap only.

Will this kit fit my vehicle’s hardtop?

Visit our website at mysmarterhome.com for a list of hardtops this kit is compatible with. Buyer assumes all/any risk if using the hardtop kit for hardtop/vehicles not listed.

Why is my hardtop tilting forward or back?

If it is tilting, the pulley frames need to be adjusted. Move the pulley frames toward the end of the hardtop that is tilting downward (refer to pg 15 for instructions on balancing/adjusting Hard Top lifter). If the hardtop is only tilting when lifting or lowering check to make sure the lifter cable has not come off the pulley. If the pulley is rubbing, contact the manufacturer.

Why is my hardtop tilting side to side?

One of two reasons: 1. The lifters are not level. Level the lifters in the group using your App settings. See MyLifter Manual for full leveling instructions. 2. The Hard Top frame is not centered on the hardtop or the width adjusters are not symmetric. Check these items if the frame is tilting side to side.

What if the spacing of my ceiling joists prevent me from placing the Hard Top frame where I want it?

If joist spacing is a problem, you can purchase two more lengths of smart track which will allow you to span more joists and provide more placement options. Smart Track are available for purchase at www.mysmarterhome.com.

References

• SmarterHome - Smarter Simpler Safer
• SmarterHome - Smarter Simpler Safer

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