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Old 04-26-2014, 09:25 PM   #1
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Best way to raise Penthouse

I am wondering if there is a "best" technique for getting my Penthouse up w/o destroying my 68 year old back? Using my head can't be good for my neck but it is the only way to use my leg strength. What about having my wife push up from the rear area? I have tried Searching but evidently haven't been using the right words. Any advice is welcomed!

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Old 04-26-2014, 09:56 PM   #2
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

I use a cargo bar from NAPA auto parts as a jack to get it started.
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Old 04-26-2014, 10:13 PM   #3
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

I raise mine by squatting a bit and locking my arms on the 2 front handles and pushing up with my legs. Sometimes I think my one shoulder is in contact too. Mine is a bit heavier with the line-x and yesterday I did this with my 65# Hobie kayak on top too without any strain. Usually I don't even unhook the bed but I did yesterday. I have the springs adjusted to require a bit of a pull downward (without the Kayak on top) My 62 yr old back doesn't get involved. I don't recollect another thread on best practices for manually raising the top but I think there is at least one on mechanical ways if I'm not mistaken. I'm 6'1" so height might help. Maybe we need a u-tube!
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Old 04-26-2014, 10:53 PM   #4
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

Some people use a ratcheting cargo bar for truck beds like posted above. Others have said that turning on the heater helps. I usually have both the side doors open and the back doors open as well so there is absolutely no vacuum holding the top down.
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Old 04-26-2014, 11:19 PM   #5
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

Quote:
Originally Posted by mikracer
I usually have both the side doors open and the back doors open as well so there is absolutely no vacuum holding the top down.
This! At least make sure you've got a window down or a door open, otherwise it makes it much more difficult.
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Old 04-27-2014, 12:53 AM   #6
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

Try this thread, info on adjusting spring tension to make lifting easier
viewtopic.php?t=1223
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Old 04-27-2014, 01:32 AM   #7
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

When I'm tired from driving or hiking I lay on my back on the dinette and push the top up with my feet pressing against the bottom of the PH bed. And like others have said, open a door or two to let the air in while the top goes up.

Conversely, I find the top drops too rapidly for me to push the canvas and windows out to keep them from getting pinched between the PH bed and rails. Closing all the doors and windows slows the dropping speed a little.
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Old 04-27-2014, 09:27 AM   #8
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

I'm working on replacing the helper springs with 150lb actuators. This won't be a total automated penthouse but it will push the roof up far enough to engage the main springs. I'll keep everyone posted.

http://www.firgelliauto.com/product_...products_id=47
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Old 04-27-2014, 10:26 AM   #9
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

Tapatio, I will be very interested in seeing your results.
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Old 04-27-2014, 08:50 PM   #10
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Re: Best way to raise Penthouse

Yep, great idea.
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