Hi,

this was covered a few weeks ago, but I am re-stating it as I think
its an overlooked flaw....

I know 3 owners (david, neil, and now myself) that this is happening
too. Its a design flaw, and I bet dollars to donuts all westies have
it happening too. Thing is, it makes the top harder to lift, and
probably would end up jamming or even wearing completely through.

see here for david's pics
http://picasaweb.google.com/dbeierl/VanagonPopTopHingeTroubles#

and here for neil's
http://picasaweb.google.com/musomuso/
PopTopStrutCableAndSpringEtc#5501604217611668018

and here for neil's overview of how to take assembly out of van:
http://www.vanagonwiki.net/wiki/Pop_Top_Arm_Repair

and pics of what I found on mine:
http://shufti.wordpress.com

alistair