Page 1 of 1
Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 02 Oct 2013, 16:49
by staffscampers
Does anyone know if we can convert our hi top Autosleeper into a pop top? I know the easiest way would be to sell the hi top and buy a pop top but we have got quite attached to the old girl (apart from the ugly roof). If it can be done any advice on who could do it would be gratefully received !
Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 02 Oct 2013, 18:49
by scottbott
ugly roof!!,

it is the best looking roof,a westy hitop is an ugly roof

Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 02 Oct 2013, 19:03
by Seababa
Hi-tops are the dogs balls! Why do you wanna change?

Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 02 Oct 2013, 21:30
by kevtherev
You are assuming rather a lot.
that once the high top is removed the roof underneath will be pristine..I can assure you it won't be
That the new pop top will fit the autosleeper opening that's cut out.
ugly?
yours might be..but mine isn't

Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 02 Oct 2013, 21:45
by staffscampers
Thanks for your replies. The ugly comment was a bit tongue in cheek. Kev - your fine looks lovely !! So are you saying I might get the top off and find the Westfalia roof doesn't fit? My worst nightmare. I don't mind spending money if there is some rot under there but not fitting would be bad. What's that saying about going down a road where there is no turning back?! Have put a picture on. Imagine what she would look like with a decent roof

Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 03 Oct 2013, 06:18
by kevtherev
Volkswagen made their caravelle roofs differently for the westfalia pop top
It would be harder to fit on a standard panel van roof...not impossible.
let's not forget the rust..
Best look out for a used Autosleeper or devon roof. in good condition..good luck.
changing the top will cost over a thousand pounds fitted.
Or .....sell you ugly van and buy a pop top version, like you should have done in the first place

Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 03 Oct 2013, 07:06
by keith
I think that roof suits your van perfectly......personally I think you would be throwing your money away and wrecking a perfectly nice van.
I was expecting to see one of those huge bathtub roofs....
Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 03 Oct 2013, 09:26
by MattBW
We own one of each and the hi top is a far more practical camping solution, I love the poptop for looks but its just not as handy as the hi tops always up storage.
I think it looks great, I'd leave it as is.
Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 03 Oct 2013, 21:50
by scottbott
get rid of the stripes,will make it even better looking

Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 03 Oct 2013, 21:59
by Ralf85
Yeah, sell the ice cream van and buy a westie pop top. Your current van should sell well enough to be able to buy one. Less storage but more space up top when camping and not claustrophobic. Simply the best!

Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 04 Oct 2013, 09:55
by 1664
If you really want to go ahead with this and room is a factor then source (may take a while) a viking spacemaker pop top as fitted to early 'Xplorer' conversions. You will not find a better design of pop top although it is heavy.
80-90 member CJH has just fitted new canvas to his and posted some pictures which will give you an idea of just how impressive this roof design really is. He's also installed extra ventilation in his though, the original just has a small slit at either end.
Click here >
https://club8090.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=40&t=123105" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Re: Autosleeper Hi Top Conversion
Posted: 04 Oct 2013, 17:57
by dbz864
Please don't try and do it,youl regret it.If you want a pop top sell it and buy one,holdsworths are the best pop tops,in my opinion.