Bud Smiley
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- Joined
- Nov 22, 2016
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Howdy folks, I've got a 1996 Grumman Olson step van on a Chevy P30 chassis with a Detroit Diesel 6.5L engine. It used to be a Mac Tools truck and only has 90k miles on it. I'll get around to posting an intro thread at some point but I don't have any pictures of my van available. What I do have is an idea that I need help with:
I want to put a big platform up on the roof. I envision being able to sit up there with a couple people on folding chairs. Maybe sleep up there on nice nights.
What would be the best way to build brackets to attach it? Does anything like this already exist? Should they be bolted into the wall supports or should I use the rain gutters? The step van is 100% aluminum and is well built so I don't think it will have a problem supporting the weight as long as I can figure out a good way to attach it.
For the platform itself, I'm thinking of a frame made out of square tubing and the floor out of steel mesh. That seems like a good mix of light weight and longevity. I'm pretty new to welding and this seems like a good sort of project to get my feet wet.
I've got an AC unit sticking out of the roof that I'll build around. I mention that because it means I won't be increasing the overall height of my vehicle.
Anybody with experience using rooftop platforms for more than just storing gear?
I want to put a big platform up on the roof. I envision being able to sit up there with a couple people on folding chairs. Maybe sleep up there on nice nights.
What would be the best way to build brackets to attach it? Does anything like this already exist? Should they be bolted into the wall supports or should I use the rain gutters? The step van is 100% aluminum and is well built so I don't think it will have a problem supporting the weight as long as I can figure out a good way to attach it.
For the platform itself, I'm thinking of a frame made out of square tubing and the floor out of steel mesh. That seems like a good mix of light weight and longevity. I'm pretty new to welding and this seems like a good sort of project to get my feet wet.
I've got an AC unit sticking out of the roof that I'll build around. I mention that because it means I won't be increasing the overall height of my vehicle.
Anybody with experience using rooftop platforms for more than just storing gear?