Doesn't the Grand Cherokee open this way? Just the glass? I would think using the parts from a ZJ would prove to be easier than finding another vehicle. I don't think the glass on the grand is the same as the glass that's used in the Cherokee. I'm pretty sure Cherokee rear window shatters real easy.

 

I defintely wouldn't make the glass itself removable by itself, but instead the glass and whole top portion of the hatch that holds it in. theres actual a guy in pirate that did this, except he the roof was turned into a hard top, but its essentially the same basic concept

 

One problem I see with the retractable glass already is that you taillights are in the way. The glass is wider than the area where the hatch meets the taillights.

 

I dunno, when im flexed out i cant open the hatch. The body flexes a fair bit.

 

Glass it self wouldnt. The frame around it would. If you chop it in the the middle to allow it to swing up i think you would.

 

Hey take out the window replace it with lexan and get latches from a sun roof so you can open it or remove it. That is the best thing you can do. It takes less skill and more diy friendly

 

If you do go through with something of the sort, remember to add a spoiler to the top of the hatch. The reason is to disperse the airflow to prevent the exhaust sucking back into the cabin. That's why the 4Runners have the spoiler on top.

 

How about a crank window like on the FSJs I've often wondered how nice it would be on a hot day to just be able to have all the windows down. But I have a retractable soft top so I never went any further with the idea. I do like the removable window thought as well

Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.

 

Unless you have a roll cage there is no structural integrity on an xj

 

The wagoneers had the retractable glass that rolled up and down i think. Didnt they?

 

^^excellent point made right here^^

 

My neighbor and I were talking about this today. I brought it up and being very mechanical inclined and being able to pretty much fab anything we need. The. Thing we though of was, yea you would have to cut your glass about two inches on each side, cut up the inide of the hatch pretty good and renforce it to handle

 

The stress of the motor assembly, rebuild the license holder by rebuilding it it can be done. Will it be something really different yup. Will it be a pain yea . But you also got to remember the problem when you flex what it goin to do to your hatch. If I were to do it id personallity do a post 96 so metal vs fiberglass hatch.