In a message dated 1/23/00 4:50:43 PM Eastern Standard Time,
BenTbtstr8@AOL.COM writes:

<< >"The real fun of separating the metal halves (inner and outer) of the
metal
 roof by drilling out the spotwelds is yet to begin.  After that's done, I
 think it will become self-evident what will have to be welded and how big
 of a hole needs to be cut in our roof."<<
  >>

actually, we didnt do that.  we ended up just junking the old westy steel
roof section at a local scrapyard.  the whole job required no welding, and
the most sophisticated tool was a saber/jig saw w/ a metal cutting blade.  we
basically cut a hole in the passenger van roof the size of a vanagon sunroof
hole.  everything else, just drilled holes and screwed/bolted down.  karl
didnt finish the bed supports yet, but he's planning on doing that when the
weather gets nicer in the spring, i suppose.   But right now, everything is
fully functional.  pop the top, throw the mattresses up there, and go to
sleep.
all done in one weekend..  no welding.  pretty darn simple..  dont know why
more people w/ hardtop vans dont do it..

chris