Cary,

I once picked up a '76 that had been torched.
Only the fabric burned from a cooking mishap.

I took it to a place that makes custom boat tops etc.

I gave him a sketch of what I wanted- he sewed it up
and installed it in two weeks. I think I paid $400.
The fabric that I selected was heavy duty waterproof
(like vinyl on a cloth backing) and the screens and
zippers were much stronger than stock.

The windows were as large as possible, one in the front
and two huge side windows.
It worked out great!  Fantastic ventilation, cool in the summer,
No worries about rain, and very good insulation.
The only consideration was condensation, but with those
huge windows, it was always easy to leave a portion open
at the top to vent humid air. It was bulky, a bit
more care was needed when closing the top.

Compared to all my other westy tops, it was far superior
and I would convert my '87 if the top wasn't like new.

Hmmmm. Maybe an even better top with GoreTex and self
popping top could be the next project..  8-]

Paul Mayfield
'87 westeeee

orig message: -----------------------------------------------

Date:    Thu, 6 Dec 2001 02:17:32 -0800
From:    Cary Chiang <cchiang1@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Questions about (making) 3 window Westy Canvas

Hi Listees:

A friend has offered to convert my original one window Westy canvas to three
(or even four!), using his considerable sewing skills.  Although I have seen
a picture of three window canvas on the Busdepot site,  I have not studied
one in person.  I am looking for feedback from listees who own the three
window canvas regarding their likes or dislikes.  Are the side windows large
enough, and would a narrow fourth window above the rear hatch be a good
thing, or not?  Especially helpful would be the dimensions of the side
windows, and where the window is located from the front edge of the canvas
seam, and from the top or bottom edges.  Any links to other photos would be
a plus.  Thanks in advance!

Cary