Do it! I have been thinking the same lately, my tintop is quite dented all over too so it would solve 2 problems in one!
Cut it Horts. The van is an heirloom that evolves. Like a fine wine or a 20yr old malt. Let loose the Holy Hacksaw and move on.
Same problem here. Daughter too big for cab bunk so got an early Westy roof complete with the continental bed. Went this way as only have to cut sun roof size hole between B and C posts as didn't want to compromise strength. Just haven't got round to fitting yet as it just don't seem right so may even end up selling it on. I'll do a before and after if I do.
I have a viking roof fitted and as some would say it looks like a boat on the roof but you pull up. You put the roof up - all the luggage does up there (as well as two teenagers) and the downstairs is free from anything really so the bed gets pulled out - goodnight campers!. Or thats what happens in my imagination (or just for a night or two) . In practice we tend to use the bus for longer holidays and three women have alot of stuff and Im a big chap so my stuff takes a lot of room. Ive started taking my trailer again now so I can take all the creature comforts and chuck all the stuff in the awning or trailer if we want to drive off. That works well as otherwise its a whole re-packing excercise just to go down the road to do the shopping! When away with the chaps for a weekend its travel light. You pull up and then just get on with it cos its two minutes to pull the bed out or if youve visitors two minutes to pop the roof. I like my viking - might be a boat but its damned functional and dont look toooooo bad!
btw if i didnt want bed space in the roof Id probably have a sheldon high top or factory high top as you get the extra storage, can stand up and you can keep em warm too!
Personally I think its a fashion or function thing. If its fashion your into then tin top with a rack at back is utter cool in a can. If you want a really functional van that is cozy and you can move about in then pop all the way. Are you a fashion or function guy?
