Date:         Wed, 10 Dec 2003 23:43:07 -0500
Reply-To:     BenTbtstr8@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Ben T <BenTbtstr8@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Passenger van to westy pop top conversion?
Comments: To: "J. Harvey" <jtharvey2@HOTMAIL.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1

In a message dated 12/10/2003 9:14:00 PM Eastern Standard Time, jtharvey2@HOTMAIL.COM writes:

> What I want to do is add a pop top to my sunroof equiped Vanagon.  The bunk
> would be a sheet of Hexcel (carbon fiber laminated honeycomb panel...747
> flooring....~2 lbs) supported by expanding spray foam.  The foam would fill
> the voids between the panel and curved roof and distributing the load
> evenly.
>
> I could close the sunroof while driving to eliminate road noise and there
> would be no worries about compromising structural integrity.  The pop top
> could even be removed in the winter months if the mounting
> was well thought
> out.
>
> Now come on, who wants to argue?  -John

Anything is possible if you are willing to spend the time or money to do it. My only question for you is WHERE can I get my hands on the laminated airplane floors. I want to build some cabinets with them. I've spent almost an entire 5 day weekend on commercail airliners this past weekend. I really like the way airplane interiors are done. I'd love one of those compact toilets in  a stretched Vanagon. However, weight will be a concern. I velive Otmar's stretch weighed in at a hefty 6000 lbs. Don't know how much Mark Drillock's partial stretch weighs. It's gotta be close to that. Any weight savings helps.

BenT