Most Grady hardtops cannot support top mounts unless done by the factory or custom built. To support top mounts, you need to add a 1/4" aluminum backing plate that will be welded to the hardtop supports across the whole width of where the outrigger bases will be mounted. Using the backingplates sold by the outrigger companies will not work, most Grady hardtops are cored to save weight, but do not have the strength or support for top mounts, and those who ignore it find cracks in their hardtops. I'd call Grady to ask about your hardtop and the installation, not all hardtops are cored but most were. To weld the plate in, any wires in the hardtop need to be removed, the heat from the welding will melt them. You will also likely lose the life jacket pack on the hardtop if you have one due to the aluminum plate, sometimes you can force it back up. If you install side mount lee jr's you need to install where Grady has placed a backing plate in the side of the house, they can send you a template so that when you drill they are placed in the correct location and are supported correctly, regardless of your choice, calling Grady is a must to do the job right. Personally I am a fan of lee jr's, I agree on some models they can be in the way, my model especially, the 265 Express. But they also offer another great place to hold onto when going forward. If you pass under bridges, lee jr's might be a pain to lower all the time, but otherwise IMHO would be well worth the money. Hardtop mounts do not look as nice, but many are not as sturdy as lee jr's and flex more, stiffer outriggers are better for trolling, especially if you are pulling spreader bars or big baits. Some hardtop mount brands recommend running with them retracted instead of extended, that can be a pain with all the lines and such. I know many who leave them extended, but if the proper aluminum plate was not used, that is even more of a problem and it WILL then cause major problems with your hardtop from the stress it will cause. If I were you, contact Grady and ask about both options to see what they say, see how much work each will involve, that may make your choice for you, if both are equal in work, then decide money and quality and see what suits you best.
