I was the culprit that convinced Cal Pop Top to make the cover for the Smart, and I have production number 1. It is now starting it's second summer. Yesterday it was 94 here (Richmond VA), my little car is parked on asphalt, with the Pop Top installed, the inside of the car was at least 15 degrees cooler that the outside, maybe more. Another little trick is to slide a small windshield sun shield between the sliding sun shade and the top, that keeps a lot of heat out while you are driving or for short stops when you run into the store.
Another little trick is to slide a small windshield sun shield between the sliding sun shade and the top, that keeps a lot of heat out while you are driving or for short stops when you run into the store.
Yup, that's a great tip -- has saved my dome from burning many days. Seriously, after an hour with the panoramic roof on some summer days, I actually noticed sunburn on my scalp a few times.
Summary - huge benefit, easy to install, and I think a lot of Smart owners facing 90+ degree heat would love it.
I have to figure out how to stretch out the strings in the back, though, so the rear window's completely covered. It'll reach just fine but I can't figure out where to anchor them.
Here is my method:
Throw it across the top, hook the mirror covers on, then stretch the pop top over the roof,grab it at the seam just above the pocket for the soft top. Take the black strap and hook it under the lower edge of the rear hatch, hold it and then do the other side. Take the adjuster (strap lock) and pull it tight. You only need to do this the first time. Then go to the windshield and pull the cover tight and tuck in under the wipers.
To remove, lift the wipers, unhook the mirror covers, rolls the cover back and then unhook the black straps from under the corners of the rear hatch.
I have a cabrio, and I hook mine around on the rear corners, open the lower hatch, tighten the string, and then close the hatch on it. It works great even with the top completely down. We have some some big wind up here on my mountain and I've never worried at all about it sailing away. - sheureka
I bought my cal pop top from SmartMadness just by reading their review (didn't know there was one going here).
I have to admit, I was astounded by how much cooler the inside is !!! And being here in Texas where it's been 100+ degrees every day, without rain, means something. It actually does everything it claims !
My father in law drives a Jeep 4-door Wrangler. He complains all the time that the non-insulated fiberglass top gets so hot that you can't even touch it. Then when he turns on his A/C, it takes a long time to cool down.
He said this around 2 in the afternoon while parked behind my cabrio that has been sitting all day. I said, "Check this out." and dropped the cover, open the door and said, "Get in". The look on his face was priceless. Yes, it DOES work.
He said he was going to see if one was made for Jeeps.
I bought my cal pop top from SmartMadness just by reading their review (didn't know there was one going here).
I have to admit, I was astounded by how much cooler the inside is !!! And being here in Texas where it's been 100+ degrees every day, without rain, means something. It actually does everything it claims !
My father in law drives a Jeep 4-door Wrangler. He complains all the time that the non-insulated fiberglass top gets so hot that you can't even touch it. Then when he turns on his A/C, it takes a long time to cool down.
He said this around 2 in the afternoon while parked behind my cabrio that has been sitting all day. I said, "Check this out." and dropped the cover, open the door and said, "Get in". The look on his face was priceless. Yes, it DOES work.
He said he was going to see if one was made for Jeeps.
Thank you Mud Pie!
Glad you like the cover. Here is the direct order link for those that may be interested. We have them in stock for quick delivery:
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