Can anybody out there tell me if the structural integrity of a van is compromised if you cut the roof off it? I'm trying to build a pop up canvas roof for it so I can stand in it. Your input would be greatly appreciated
What van? In general, yes. You will need to frame the opening to provide rigidity. How much? Quite a bit on a unibody (transit, sprinter..) a little bit less on a body on frame (econoline, express, etc).
Traditionally Sportsmobiles have a heavy gauge galvanized sheet metal frame that stiffens the perimeter of the roof sheet metal opening. It is held into the opening with 1/4" bolts through the sheet metal.
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