Other Penthouse Roof Manufacturers??

Traveller · 06-22-2009, 01:28 PM

I'm starting to convert a Ford van, and would like to compare other penthouse roofs. I'm sure SMB is the best, although it's heavy. The roof on my former Westfalia was very light, comparatively. Does anyone have names of other manufacturers? Really appreciate it!

jage · 06-22-2009, 02:19 PM

I've seen one that was the shape and size of the van roof. Might have been GTRV:

AHuey · 06-26-2009, 09:28 AM

I have a GTRV, got it about 2 weeks ago with a "Penthouse" top it is excellent. It is lower profile then the Sportsmobile - looks like the stock roof line, which makes it quiet at highway speeds and more "garageable". It easy to raise as well, just unclip, give it a push and it raises itself (gas struts). The support/raising mechanism for the top is simple (in a good way) and very efffective.The top is like a pre-hung door in that it fits into a fibreglass "frame" that covers the top of the van, including the area above the cab. Makes for an excellent seal,.... this was tested in rain storm a couple of days ago.

vwteleman · 06-26-2009, 01:20 PM

AHuey,

I saw your van at GTRV when I dropped mine off. Mine's the silver EB cargo van - you may have seen it. Roy just pulled it inside a week and a half ago (probably just after yours left) and started chopping. Should be ready by mid-July.

Glad to hear you like the top.

Brent

mchegger · 07-01-2009, 05:03 PM

Where is GTRV? I am also interested comparing.

vwteleman · 07-03-2009, 01:15 PM

mchegger,

GTRV is located in Richmond, BC (a suburb of Vancouver).

Their website is http://www.gtrv.com. It's not obvious from their website, but they will do custom floor plans, as well.

US contact info is 888.332.9602 or sales@gtrv.com.

Brent

Whitely · 08-20-2011, 08:16 PM

I just visited the GTRV websiite and am very interested but their website stinks! No prices of anything or pics of their traveler floorplan. I actually like both of their tops. They seem smaller/lighter than SMB PH. I was reading on another thread that the SMB PH is so heavy that an electric lift was recommended. I am not a weakling but not a bodybuilder either. So just how heavy is it? I like that the GTRV makes less noise and is flush with the top but the bed is better suited for children. The SMB PH is built to accommodate adults. Anyway, anybody who has a GTRV and would like to share pics or let me know how you like your rig I would love to hear from you. By the way their yahoo users group is not easy to navigate either. Thanks for any info.

Pntyrmvr · 08-21-2011, 07:39 AM

Hi;

Dear SMB. Your profile on the Penthouse needs updating...

That GTRV top is slick. The top pulls down like a sheathed knife compared to SMB's holstered revolver.

Here's the maxi for pop tops:

http://coloradocampervan.com/db_IMG_23431.jpg from Colorado camper vans website.

Two ideas come to mind here for us SMB PH types:

1- gas struts to assist lifting- why not air cylinders?
2- slide out as in link above- 500 lb drawer slides anyone?

Regards and happy Sunday,

Gavin

jage · 08-21-2011, 08:19 AM

Isn't diversity wonderful?

The GTRV looks flimsy to me, but then again I'd choose the gun over a knife.

twogone · 08-21-2011, 08:52 AM

Yep, I was wondering if you can walk on it, cargo rack it, solar panel it. My big ol' gun lets me do all three at once. 'Course not everyone would add to a top.