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Old 01-28-2009, 05:50 PM   #1
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need help opening penthouse top

Would someone please give me some suggestions opening a penthouse top mechanically as I dislocated my collar bone. thank you

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Old 01-28-2009, 07:01 PM   #2
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

I don't know if this will work for you, but try bending your knees, and bend at the waiste so your back is horizontal and up against the ceiling. Then straighten your legs and you might be able to get it up enough so the springs take over and let it pop up from there on it's own. When I have the Thule box on top with some chairs or other light stuff in it, it can be hard for me to push up with my hands. I have uses this method and it works great. I am 5'10" so if you are taller it should work with little or no strain on your collar bone. oclv
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Old 01-28-2009, 07:20 PM   #3
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

oclv thank you for your reply, you gave me an idea that prehaps lying on my back and pushing with my feet might work also. Maybe someone has some experience with a mechanical solution.
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Old 01-28-2009, 07:41 PM   #4
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

Do you know about the electric top opener option? I've never seen it or know the proper name but I know one exists. Check the SMB web site or contact them.
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Old 01-28-2009, 08:17 PM   #5
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

Thank you PatO I will check Sportsmobiles site
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Old 01-28-2009, 09:55 PM   #6
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

I had trouble trying to lift the top, and was told if you use a small stool it is easier to push it up. Bought a small foldable step stool at Walmart and works great.
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Old 01-28-2009, 10:29 PM   #7
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

You should probably practice with a helper before going out in the boonies- have you considered getting it down?
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Old 01-29-2009, 11:04 AM   #8
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

Make sure one of the doors are open when you raise and lower the penthouse. The van actually fills with pressure when you lower the top and you won't get it closed easily. Same with lifting it, will be easier with door open. I found that out first trip out when i couldn't lower the top.
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Old 01-29-2009, 05:37 PM   #9
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

Thank you danamrak,Adventureduo, for your suggesions. Jage, I hope I can overcome pulling down by anchoring and ratcheting. Haven't the elderly ever posted this problem before? I cannot find on a search.
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Old 01-29-2009, 07:09 PM   #10
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Re: need help opening penthouse top

I'm a skinny 71 yr. old and have this problem in cold weather, which doesn't happen too often as I'm not into winter sports. However, I found that if I run the furnace for a few minutes the PH fabric softens and it's a little easier to pull it down. Once i get past IRS time, I may purchase the 12volt jack from SMB West, which would take care of opening the PH top. Then I could have the springs adjusted to pull down easier. Hope this make sense.

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