100 series version ASAP!
x2, really digging this.
Any thoughts on the structural competency when cutting away a good chunk of the roof support? More specifically does your shell have some structure to 'replace' that lost structure?
I have had a lot of thoughts on this. When it comes down to it, removing the factory roof supports should take away some support. That being said, the supports are in a poor location for a roll over and could be relocated farther forward if the sunroof was deleted or moved to the rear. The roof panel is pretty thin sheet and the top I have designed is very stiff and mounts to the rain gutters that act as an adjoining frame and are very stout. My next step is to disassemble and finish the pop top and cut out 1 roof support,1 sunroof and leave 1 support and possibly relocate the other over the driver. I think this will be a great topless vehicle and would lend it self to having a roll cage installed if the user wanted. After all, you can take off the top in the matter of minutes and have a run around. I am hoping to be near a wash in weight gain from removing the electric sunroof and sheet metal
100 series version ASAP!
I posted on Mud as well but how well will this work in Foul weather? When we go camping we always get rain to some degree so weather tight will be a big deal. Have you done any weather testing yet? Looks like you are mostly in the South west so I would think not. Any option for a covered entry ad on? How about internal finishing of the roof? Condensation management/insulation?
This version looks very well thought out. What ever happened to the guy that made a fiberglass/wood version? I think he made 1 prototype that had many fatal flaws. The CAMPTEQ looks much more durable, robust, and better fitting. Good Luck and post lots of photos when you get to hacking the roof. Can't wait to see more.
http://80seriespoptoptent.blogspot.com/
The top sits on the rain gutter the entire length spreading the load and the 4 mounts hold it down. Yeah, the water jet is way cool. Solar powered too!