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Subject:Re: Reasonable price for 85 Westy poptop, how to remove and transport
From:Bob Stevens
Date:Tue, 4 Jan 2005 11:30:39 -0700

"good visegrips (for the big latch plate screws)
phillips screwdrivers, all assorted sizes with *good* tips,  plus 2
smaller ones for the dozens of tiny canvas hold down screws
large flat blade screwdriver for luggage rack screws
1/4" drive metric socket/ratchet set 10-13
open end metric wrench set 10-13
small and medium ziplock bags
masking tape and pen for labeling
utility knife"

To Mark's thorough list, I'd suggest having a
Black 'n Decker-type cordless drill for the
"dozens of tiny canvas hold down screws".
I used one to put the new top on my van and
it made the job almost enjoyable. Tedious work
and they are easy to control and much easier
on the knuckles when putting the canvas top
on the van top.

bob
Addendum: when you get around to putting the canvas
top on the pop top and the van top, the instructions
are going to tell you to put the forward part on first,
and center it.
This is so you can do any adjusting at the rear where
it is not so visible. Stretch the CORNERS around the
sides very meticulously on both top and bottom and
the fit from there back will be much tighter and
clean looking. It's hard to do because the fit is
tight, but the rewards of struggling with that part
are visible in the end.