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Subject:Poptop -bubble top add-on proposal
From:Mark Drillock
Date:Thu, 8 Feb 2007 17:21:43 -0800

I am very interested in an add-on bubble top product for a standard
Westy poptop. I have long thought that a raised roof section in the main
living area would be a big plus for those times when popping the top was
not desirable due to heavy loads on the roof. Also great for full timers
who don't want to raise the top when stealth camping. Here is what I
have in mind.

40" by 44" wide opening in existing top. ~8" increase in ceiling height
within that area. 52" by 52" fiberglass bubble, measured at the
interface with the existing top roof level, sloping appropriately in the
front for aerodynamics and in the rear for aesthetics.

Considerations:
a.Keeping the added height to the maximum that will allow integrated
gutter type metal plates for Thule type rack bar mounts, tall type, so
kayaks, etc can still be carried with commercially available rack equipment.

b.Providing dual gas strut replacements for the Westy bar support
mechanism with new mounting plates that have a series of holes available
so the owner can reposition the struts for maximum efficiency with
whatever weight load they need to carry on the rack(s), if any.

c.Use of a standard North American vehicle gas strut so replacements can
be easily purchased, VW/Audi family part preferred.

d.Optional 14"x14" roof vent opening, so standard RV vents and fan
ventilators can be installed.

e.Optional outside wire luggage rack/railings for the stock top area
behind the new raised section.

Comments, tentative orders, financial backing, etc. gladly accepted.

Mark