Monday, February 2, 2009

Make A Pop Top Camper Top

Pop-up campers are also called tent trailers.


Many people who enjoy camping have a pop-up trailer, which quickly transforms from an aerodynamic low-profile camper to a full living space on wheels. A winch system raises the roof into position. Camper tops consist of fiberglass, aluminum or canvas. Some canvas tops may have a layer of rubber. Over time, it may become necessary to replace the hard top due to wear and tear. The exact replacement methods vary depending on the roof's design.


Instructions


1. Sketch the location of any object install on the roof. Disconnect interior fixtures or other objects attached to the ceiling or the exterior roof. Remove roof trim around the edges. Take the skin off to get to the interior layers. Take damage insulation and rotted plywood. The frame may also need reconstruction. Make notes a sketch of the roof system to use as a guide when constructing the new roof.


2. Build the roof component on a worktable. Rebuild the roof back in layers using the same or similar materials. Start by cutting the fiberglass outer skin for the roof. Glue rigid foam board insulation to the fiberglass outer skin.


3. Fabricate plywood slat to replace rotted components. Cut 1/4-inch plywood to the appropriate width and length. Make the slats the desire thickness by gluing pieces of plywood together with heavy-duty construction adhesive.


4. Place the plywood slats along the perimeter. Reuse the metal bands on the new roof, if applicable. Place the bands in the same position, and secure in the same method used for the old roof. The metal bands provide strength to the roof structure.








5. Fabricate the vinyl-covered plywood. Cut the plywood to the desired length. Cut openings for wiring or fixtures. Place the plywood on the vinyl sheeting and trace the outline of the plywood. Mark the vinyl and cut the material at least 1/4-inch larger. Use a utility knife to make the cuts. The extra material allows you to turn the edges down over the plywood sides.


6. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing the epoxy. Apply the epoxy to the plywood, including the edges. Use a paint roller to flatten the material and help bond it to the plywood. The vinyl-coated plywood forms the interior ceiling of the trailer. Glue the vinyl-coated plywood panel to the foam insulation.


7. Place large woodworking clamps at various intervals along the edges, which help bind and compress the materials. Place several weigh objects between the clamps at different spots. Allow the clamps and weights to remain in place for 24 hours.


8. Install the roof to the lift posts and secure. Anchor the roof to the lift in the same manner as the old roof. Install the trim around the perimeter. Reinstall any fixtures or objects remove from the old roof or ceiling.

Tags: fiberglass outer, fiberglass outer skin, metal bands, outer skin, Place plywood