Raising The Roof On A Step Van

My idea is to build a raised platform bed with storage underneath in the back of the van.

Raising the roof on a step van.

The idea was to make a frame cover it with 22 plywood anchor it the van with screws fill the voids rear corners with spray foam red cans that cost about 3 at a hardware or building supply store coat this with laminating resin fiberglass over the corners and edges of this structure first with 1 1 2oz fiberglass mat then over the entire structure with 10 oz. You ll need plenty of help or a lift to get your top on. First step though is finding a suitable top. A truss framed roof on the other hand doesn t have any attic space to expand you re probably going to have to raise a truss framed roof to get more space.

Here s how to properly line up and cut your hole to accommodate your fiberglass raised roof v. 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. I ve seen the most success with wrecker s yards pick your part locations. Once the top is in place it is simply a matter of bolting it onto the van.

Raised roof van conversion starts by making a hole in the roof. Currently gutting the van now and getting ready to make the cuts. And although almost any roof can be raised the cost of raising a very large or complex roof may outweigh the benefits. I am using a ford econoline extended 350 instead.

The curve of the roof at the very end running the length of the van is more then i expected and looks like its gonna be a problem when i try to mount the first 2 4. Most standard plans for the sprinter and transit vans can be adapted for the chevy or ford e vans or you can design your own dyo interior. If you re comfortable cutting a hole in the roof of your van you should be able to install a high top yourself. In regard to headroom i anticipate.

Rather than lay plywood across the roof cutout my bed would be supported by columns secured to the two rearmost pairs of pillars with the bottom of the platform. Contact us today to discuss your needs with a sportsmobile designer. As with anything used check craigslist local wrecker s yards and van specific forums. I do not plan on a roof air conditioner the van is already tall enough with the camper top.

I also think that a step van with a partially raised roof would stick out and not be as stealthy granted step vans are not the most stealthy in the first place.