Bob, when I replaced the canvas on my '75, I left the top attached so that I
could easily make sure I wasn't making the top too short or too tall when I
fastened it at the front.  I also punched the holes after the canvas was
installed - no problem and no extra holes in that beautiful canvas.   There
was no anxiety when I first raised the top, since I had already made sure it
would fit.

For the life of me, I just don't understand why everyone seems bent on
taking the top of the van or bus for this job.  Leaving it on makes
fit-checking virtually instantaneous.  I replaced my canvas w/o anyone's
help, just an electric staple gun (would heartily recommend this or an even
tougher air stapler) over the course of two consecutive afternoons.  I went
with a PLF (plfvw.com) tent and am very pleased with the fit and quality.

Randy, Carla & Anna Huyck, Olympia, WA
'75 Rustfalia
'85 Vanagon GL
'74 Super Beetle
'01 Ford F150