(Converting 1996 ford econoline/wagon)

Saysomething555 · Sep 14, 2015

Hello Vandwellers,

This will be my first conversion and I have a lot to learn.

I am converting a 1996 ford van into a hightop. Does any one know what high tops are typically made out of? I am going to be making my own and want to insure a strong build.

Cheers!

GrantRobertson · Sep 14, 2015

They are almost always made of fiberglass. It is entirely possible to build a form out of Styrofoam, lay your fiberglass on top of that, then either tear the fiberglass out from the inside, or leave it in for insulation.

But many here have claimed you can get a used high top At a junk yard for under $200. I'm thinking all the foam and fiberglass, plus gelcoat and stuff would cost way more than $200.

I have even joked about inverting an old bass boat and using that for a high top.

cyndi · Sep 14, 2015

Welcome to the CRVL forums!

To help you learn the ins and outs of these forums, this "Tips & Tricks" post lists some helpful information to get you started. We look forward to hearing more from you.

perhaps you've already seen this link on Bob's homepage
http://www.cheaprvliving.com/install-high-top/

Almost There · Sep 14, 2015

Welcome to the forums!

All the high tops I've ever seen are made with fiberglass.

Having had a couple of vans with them, I'd really recommend a double layer one. They are much easier to finish inside and have insulation between the layers.

I've just completed finishing the inside of a single layer fiberglass high top and it was a whole lot of work. IMO, it was a very poorly made fiberglass top and it was professionally done. The mold that was used was not symmetrical side to side.

My point is that there is a whole lot more to making a fiberglass high top than simply putting together a set of Styrofoam blocks, carving it out and then layering fiberglass over it. Mine has a 1/4" steel roll cage affixed to it that is welded to the original roof of the van and lengths of shaped 4" wide boards impregnated in the fiberglass to provide strength.

Seriously, check out the wrecking yards and locate a high top that will fit your vehicle. It will be a whole lot cheaper in the long run.

akrvbob · Sep 14, 2015

If your budget will allow it, you can buy them for as little as $1200 and then install it yourself. However, finding a used one at the junk yard to use as a donor roof and transfering it to your van will be by far the cheapest option.

There should be lots of 1996 Fords in junk yards and some should have a hightop.
Bob

WheelEstate USA · Sep 14, 2015

I saw one that was pretty nice built with sheet foam, covered with Coroplast, and trimmed with aluminum angle.

Saw another in Taos made from a row boat turned upside down and insulated.

There was one produced a bunch of years ago using the top off a 67 Chevelle as a mold.