Pop Top Build

[Vanimal]

Hello to all interested. After several times reviewing the post link here:
https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...elp-25537.html
I have decided to DIY my top after a negative situation when trying to purchase a new one. I received extremely poor service and even lied to from those guys in Fresno California. The way I look at it the saved me money and possible numerous headaches of possible revisits from a potential poor install. I mean I have built complexed 4x4 conversions from full framed to unibody vehicles, dual transfer case, coils and leaf set ups so...why not. I originally was going to convert a cabin cruiser type top from a gen III I still have. It was going to be a clam shell type set up, I had already sourced the expanding hinges but I felt it would be more complicated due to having to narrow the top in the back section besides it being a not so common set up on later Econoline vans. I may try to find a gen III to convert and sell as I hate to discard a good top.
I have finally sourced a similar year penthouse top and going to start the project and hopefully finish in time tow my Jeep to Rubicon Trail camping trip in the late summer.
I want to thank BenJJ for his posts and taking the time to discuss much of the work along with all the pics which is even more encouraging since the top I am getting should, and I say freely, fit my van contours closely.

[boywonder]

Originally Posted by Vanimal

I have finally sourced a similar year penthouse top and going to start the project and hopefully finish in time tow my Jeep to Rubicon Trail camping trip in the late summer.
I want to thank BenJJ for his posts and taking the time to discuss much of the work along with all the pics which is even more encouraging since the top I am getting should, and I say freely, fit my van contours closely.

You may find some useful information here as well:

https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...top-10808.html

If you are installing an RB top on an RB van I can help with the roof hole location and dimensions.

[MauiSportsmobile]

Originally Posted by Vanimal

Hello to all interested. After several times reviewing the post link here:
https://www.sportsmobileforum.com/fo...elp-25537.html
I have decided to DIY my top after a negative situation when trying to purchase a new one. I received extremely poor service and even lied to from those guys in Fresno California. The way I look at it the saved me money and possible numerous headaches of possible revisits from a potential poor install. I mean I have built complexed 4x4 conversions from full framed to unibody vehicles, dual transfer case, coils and leaf set ups so...why not. I originally was going to convert a cabin cruiser type top from a gen III I still have. It was going to be a clam shell type set up, I had already sourced the expanding hinges but I felt it would be more complicated due to having to narrow the top in the back section besides it being a not so common set up on later Econoline vans. I may try to find a gen III to convert and sell as I hate to discard a good top.
I have finally sourced a similar year penthouse top and going to start the project and hopefully finish in time tow my Jeep to Rubicon Trail camping trip in the late summer.
I want to thank BenJJ for his posts and taking the time to discuss much of the work along with all the pics which is even more encouraging since the top I am getting should, and I say freely, fit my van contours closely.

Would you mind sharing what issues you had at Fieldvan? I'm considering getting the penthouse top replaced on my RB50 there at Fieldvan. The van was originally built at Sportsmobile West in Fresno.