Installing a fiber glass hi top - tips and tricks

[Stumpalump]

Put it on the roof with somebody underneath the top with a flashlight and marker. Park on a flat level surface so it does not tweak when you cut it. You may consider removing the wheels and setting the van on the ground so it's not so high. Mine was installed with clear silicone in 2002 and has been great. You will love that high top.

 

[boardrider247]

Anyone else have some suggestions?
Maybe Acheateaux???
I should be seeing my top delivered here in about 3 weeks.

 

[Acheateaux]

Pull the entire headliner and interior trim
Plywood strips on top of the reverse flange
Butyl tape under the flange w 3500 marine 3m on the exterior.
Grade 8 hardware and drill through the old ribs
Go slow bolting it down to be sure you get it even side to side.
Finish the interior cut w sawzall after you get it in place.
Wrap the old headliner onto the plywood and staple down.

 

[Acheateaux]

Do you have the AC/heater ducting in the ceiling? If so, leave a shelf in the back to keep a little duct work there will make you life easier reclaiming that.

 

[boardrider247]

Pull the entire headliner and interior trim
Plywood strips on top of the reverse flange
Butyl tape under the flange w 3500 marine 3m on the exterior.
Grade 8 hardware and drill through the old ribs
Go slow bolting it down to be sure you get it even side to side.
Finish the interior cut w sawzall after you get it in place.
Wrap the old headliner onto the plywood and staple down.

Awesome. Thanks for that.

So you used butyl tape to seal the top to the van roof?
Fiberine suggests silicone, but I am really not a fan of any type of silicone sealant after a commercial roofer told me that it is basically temporary. His suggestion was to always use a urethane based sealant.
Still weighing my options there I have a couple weeks yet to decide.

 

[plh]

lots of people use Sikaflex Polyurathane

 

[Acheateaux]

I used starting on the outside
3m marine 3500
Butyl tape
Thick foam