hi I am a new owner of a vitara softop and i have a couple of questions regarding lowering the hood , which is in two sections firstly if ! want to remove the front part completely how do i get the frame from the  sockets  above the doors secondly do i have to remove the back window to lower the rear section of the hood? thanks alan

I Presume that you are referring to what we in the 'States call lowering the top...  You didn't mention what year you have, so I'll tell you how my '96 works...

You don't remove the front part of the frame.  You unsnap the fabric top from the frame, pull the pocket off the frame and just fold fabric part back.  Store the frame in its normal (closed) position using the clamps above the windshield. 

Then, you have to unzip the rear window and the side curtains, unsnap the straps on the sides over the doors and the snaps on the targa bar to lower the rear section.  I just unzip the back window and let it hang inside the tailgate.  I usually don't completely remove it. 

hi many thanks jzap for the info mine is a 95 softop regards alan