Hi Iflylow, are you saying the after market cover doesn't have a fabric rod and tension cables? Or is it that after you disconnect them you can't push the back window up to the service position against the roll bars?
If you can get the top that far up then the rear cover or clam shell actually disconnects pretty easily once you learn how to remove the clips...just remember to put some thick soft microfiber towels on the back of the car in case it drops. I use two little L shaped hex wrenches in the little holes provided to hold it up...once you do this the engine is easy to work on...well it will tire your back...a lot of leaning
