Hi David,

Interesting solution. The only problem with that solution is that it
effectively doubles the load on the poptop hinge. I am not sure that
the pivot in the hinge will stand up to that sort of use in the long
term.

Why not extend that fulcrum forward over the luggage rack and then
use a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder or a remote-powered scissor
lift  to the roof lift upwards. A pair of steel brackets attached to
the forward edge of the rear poptop section could come forward about
6" and be joined to a center yoke connected to a lift mechanism
anchored to the luggage rack. The touch part with this approach is
finding a lift mechanism that would extend to the full height  of the
roof and fit within it when compressed.

This would contain the lift inside the perimeter of the vehicle and
needn't make it any taller than it already is.

Happy Trails,

Greg Potts
1973/74/77/79 Westfakia "Bob The Tomato
www.pottsfamily.ca

On 3-Feb-07, at 10:35 AM, David Etter wrote:

> SAY!!  This is your lucky day. I, have just come up with the solution
> to the problem of raising the pop-top on a Westy.
>        Bolt a 24 foot  2 x 6 on the top of the van, in such a manner
> that an equal amount of plank sticks out the back... so let's say
> about 12 - 15 feet.
>        On the back end, attach an eye-hook with a lead going to one
> of them there swing chairs.
> Then, when you wish to stop and raise the roof, one merely sends his
> S.O. out back to sit in the chair and PRESTO up pops the top.
>        An added benefit of the following 'swing chair' would be to
> establish a 'smoking section' for those traveling companions that
> insist on having a smoke or for someone annoying... like me.
>        Bright idea Eh?  They don't call me SUNNY for nuttin.   ;-)
>
>                                        David