Adding a high top to a Chevy Express

[rayandjanice]

Hello All,
I own a 1997 Chevy Express 1500 Mark III van.
Is it possible to put a fixed high top on this van?
The rear bench goes down to make a bed, and I purchased a stand alone bed extender to fit the length (almost) of my 6'5" husband. But, we need to figure out a place for our 7 year old to sleep. Any suggestions?
I don't think I want to do a full van conversion, we just need comfortable places to sleep and some storage.
Thanks in advance for any suggestions on the 7 year old accomodations and also on adding a high top to this van.

[TroySmith80]

Certainly possible, search this site and/or google and you'll find several examples.

Here is one: viewtopic.php?f=24&t=5996

[daveb]

Considering you don't want a full conversion, I don't see a big problem provided you can find the correct top to fit the van. It's the hefty weights that requires a heavier suspension usually. You might even be able to go further than you think.

[carringb]

Before you talk yourself into a new roof, you should weight the van as it would normally be loaded for travel. A 1500 conversion may not have much (if any) payload left over.

[rayandjanice]

Two more questions:
1) Is a penthouse top lighter than a fixed top? And price? I think the fixed top is around 5,000. What is the approximate cost of the penthouse top?

2) Has anyone bought and used the cab bed for a child? If so, how did it work out and what was the cost on purchasing it?

Thanks

[daveb]

A quick e-mail to SMB might be of value if nobody knows the answer here.