** bryan duggan <bduggan@MINDSPRING.COM> writes: **

>> Has anyone out there put a roof rack and space box on top of their Westy?

Yes.. Yakima rocket box

>>  it can be heavy popping my top up.
>> what is your experience with pop tops and space boxes especially popping
>> your top when the box is full?

I empty the box, then give a good heave ho!  it's pretty heavy though,
having some leverage (i.e. collapsable step stool like this) helps

   http://tinyurl.com/4wq7z

I'm about 5'10" with a pretty good 'ape index', (read long arms..)
but I'm no power lifter by anymeans.

We use it mainly for soft goods, lawn chairs, a collapsable table,
the kid carrier (backpack) etc:  not too much weight, just
things that are bulky that we dont want to get wet.

Also works well in the winter for skis/snowboards, locks
so you dont have to worry about theft.

It is noticable in the wind however and affects the overall
handling of the van in such situations.  Not drastic
by anymeans, but you do notice that it is up there.

YMMV

90 syncro westy
mesa, az
pics here:  http://tinyurl.com/5g6sx