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Old 10-08-2020, 01:50 PM   #1
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vehicle modification

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

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Old 10-08-2020, 05:43 PM   #2
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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).
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Old 10-08-2020, 09:29 PM   #3
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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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Old 10-08-2020, 09:54 PM   #4
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It also matters where and how much you cut. The Ford body builders books have diagrams that show what's ok and what isn't.
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Old 10-09-2020, 07:06 PM   #5
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The Ford RB and EB vans are cut behind the B pillar roof brace....to retain some structural rigidity up front.
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