I ve seen the most success with wrecker s yards pick your part locations.
Raised roof van top.
It is very important that the roof be properly designed airflow to reduce noise.
Noise your van is going to sound much different with a raised roof.
This heavy steel frame reinforces the roof supports the optional bed and is the base for the elevating assembly.
As with anything used check craigslist local wrecker s yards and van specific forums.
Once the top is in place it is simply a matter of bolting it onto the van.
It easily passed the fmvss 216 roof crash test see below.
The sides and rear of the roof cut out are framed with 14 gauge steel bolted to the van roof.
Savage pooh added a 1 by 2 strip on the top side of the topper lip to cushion the bolts a little then covered the entire edge with metal edging for a smooth finish.
All of our full size van tops work great with side or rear wheelchair lifts.
Derin estimated that the high top added around 450 pounds of weight but the roof they took off weighed about 250 pounds so that s only a net gain of 200 pounds.
Actually we feel the roof is stronger after the penthouse has been installed.
Insulation insulation makes the roof quieter and the entire van more comfortable.
First step though is finding a suitable top.
Unless you are merely looking for more room to haul your cargo be sure to buy an insulated hi top.
You ll need plenty of help or a lift to get your top on.
Van tops also known as high tops and or camper tops for vans make the movement of passengers and cargo easier when compared to that of a standard van.
If you re comfortable cutting a hole in the roof of your van you should be able to install a high top yourself.