Hardtop Security Nuts

Details

• Unique security nut made to resist tools.
• Fits on either the front or side latch areas.
• Not compatible with OEM latches. These are for bolt-in installs only.
• Lock nut is its own key.
• This is not an easy installation. But it makes the top much harder to steal.
• No warranty implied. Your top may still get stolen. This hardware just makes it more difficult.
• Shipping calculated at checkout. US customers receive Priority Mail. International orders will be sent via EMS or Priority International.
  
  

Select a Set:

Hardtop Security Nuts - one Miata worth ($21) Security Nuts + Garage Star bolt-on Hardtop Mounts (+$54)

Installation

Thread the square security nut onto the stud. Leave a few threads so that you can attach another nut to allow for installation.



An inverted nut acts as the lock to let you install the stud and security nut.



Thread the stud on finger tight. The larger stud (M8) attaches to the body, while the smaller one (M6) attaches to the hardtop.

The hardware will work on either the side latch area by the seats or on the windshield latch area. My own hardtop has the side mounts JB Welded to it, so I couldn't photograph a side latch install.



If there's a gap between your hardtop plate and the security nut, a tool could get underneath it and security could be compromised. The mounts I'm using in these photos are old Rennenmetal units (discontinued). The Garage Star mounts shouldn't have this problem.

If your mounts DO have a gap, you need to take the mount to a vise and twist it a bit to allow the mount and the windshield frame to be on the same plane. This shouldn't be too difficult. It's worth the effort to give you a secure hardtop installation.



Once you have eliminated any gaps between the nut and HT mount, use an open end wrench and torque your new security nut/stud combo down. The tighter you can get it, the more difficult it will be for a thief to remove it. Just don't actually harm your hardtop tightening things down.



If you want a nearly-permanent installation, apply some red Loctite to the stud threads. You will have to apply heat to the nut/stud combo with a torch before you'll be able to remove the hardtop from the car again.

About the Hardware

These security nuts are made locally. They're not meant for Miatas, but with a little work and ingenuity you can install them on your hardtop. You may have to source different mounting studs and modify your existing bolt-on hardtop mounting plates. This is a very DIY-level solution to hardtop security. But it's worth the work.

No warranty is offered with this hardware. revlimiter.net is not claiming your hardtop will be theft-proof.