Date:         Mon, 18 Nov 2002 05:09:23 -0600
Reply-To:     Chuck Hill <hilltech@NETINS.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Chuck Hill <hilltech@NETINS.NET>
Subject:      Re: VW T2 Vanagon Do it Yourself Camper book?
Comments: To: Jessica Evans <jessica@LUNULA.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

I have looked through this book, and do read and speak German.  It deals
with installing purchased cabinets that are available in Germany, mostly
from a company called REIMO, as well as installing different high top
roofs.  The instructions are mostly common sense and often fall into the
easy answer of "follow the manufacturers instructions".  It does not
discuss moving a Westfalia top from a camper to a non-camper.  I really
don't think this book would be much help to you.

I did a conversion of the Karl Bloss variety on a syncro van last
summer.  It works OK, is do-able, and even has some advantages over an
original camper van.  The headliner that is left in the rear makes the
van quieter than one without it.  I made a wooden frame to mount a 3/4"
plywood base for the upper bed area.  That works OK, and gives you a
useable bunk or storage area.  The pad for this bunk must be stowed
below when the roof is lowered because of clearance problems with the
roof.

Installing cabinets is not hard to do.  You can get used ones or build
your own.  I prefer having something that lifts out and stores in the
garage leaving me with a van that has a regular passenger interior, and
a full width bed.

Chuck Hill