Top Stowage Ideas

[Chuck W.]

I've had an issue with mice in my shop, most recently, I found they had built a nest inside my folded CJ3B top. I've spent some time cleaning the inside and outside of the top and now need to store it safely out of the way. Looking around at something big enough to store the top flat, with the plastic windows flat, the only thing I have found so far is a plastic twin size mattress storage bag with a zip-lock end, but thinking this might cause damage to the plastic windows. Looking for thoughts and/or ideas.

[Squishymonster]

maybe overkill / expensive, but I've seen zip up black nylon roof rack bags that might be about the right size. Mice can chew through it though if they are so inclined.

[Chuck W.]

That's a very good suggestion. Those bags are not very expensive on e-bay! I haven't had any trouble with the mice chewing things, just making nests in cozy places! (They simply love to build nests under the engine shrouds on my M274A2 mule!) Rat pee is very corrosive!

[Rus Curtis]

Depending on where this stuff is stored, I've had luck with using moth balls.  Works for wasps too.  Not pleasant if indoors, though.

[SteveKfl]

I would be careful closing up moth balls in the container with vinyl plastic windows, and the canvas, and the metal door handles too.  Moth ball fumes are toxic.   https://www.answers.com/Q/Will_moth_balls_damage_plastic_or_wiring
https://www.ridmycritters.com/how-to-get-rid-of-mothball-smell/

[Rus Curtis]

Yeah, clarification.  Sorry, I meant for the outside stuff.  I double ziplock my box of mothballs for garage storage.  When I had my jeep up on blocks in the back yard under a tarp, I'd throw 4-6 inside, randomly scattered about to keep varmints out.  Lasted for over a year.  Come home, toss in a few more.

[Chuck W.]

I would be careful closing up moth balls in the container with vinyl plastic windows

Absolutely, I've had enough trouble cleaning the plastic windows, would not want to take a chance on damaging them. I'm still thinking some type of bag to store the top in, zippered so it's inconvenient for the mice to get inside. Also thinking it should be a solid color so light cannot get in and fade the plastic windows. Squishymonster's suggestion sounds good to me!
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Car-Van-Suv-Auto-Roof-Top-Cargo-Rack-Carrier-Soft-Waterproof-Luggage-Travel-Bag/392201429256?_trkparms=aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D225074%26meid%3D59351183d07941bb8e6e4b904f5917f6%26pid%3D100675%26rk%3D3%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D264396042653%26itm%3D392201429256%26pmt%3D1%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D2380057%26brand%3DOxGord&_trksid=p2380057.c100675.m4236&_trkparms=pageci%3Adef83ca2-c06d-11ea-ad71-74dbd180435c%7Cparentrq%3A2a14c5cf1730a4cc090ee59dfff0ce6c%7Ciid%3A1
$25. with free shipping, Much cheaper than a new top! I think I will try one and see, I've got to do something to keep the rat bastards out!

[Chuck W.]

So, I came across some outdoor furniture storage bags, 40" x 72" 2 Mil plastic. These are yellow, and are called banana bags, by Warp's. 4 bags for $15. I'll give them a try and see how the mice like them!

[Chuck W.]

Just a follow-up: got the "Banana Bags" today and I think they will work. Large enough to put the top and doors in and they look like they are strong enough to keep all but the most determined mouse out, plus they are yellow, maybe help cut down on the UV rays?