Adding pop-top, rust repairs, and general newbie questions

[peridot]

I've just today become a Bongo owner

Based on a bit of lurking on here, I was able to impress the seller with my apparent expertise at rattling the anti-roll bars, prodding the sills, probing the cross-member, inspecting the fluids, exercising the electrics, and making a case for a few quid off the price

But I know that I really know nothing at all.

The van is a 1999 2WD diesel tintop with side conversion/rock and roll bed. It appears to have been well-maintained but has rust on the wheel arches and sills, with spots elsewhere.

I'm looking to leave it in with someone who can firstly reassure me that I'm not a complete idiot for having bought it in the first place, then add a pop-top, deal with the rust, and give it a general inspection and TLC where required (possibly fitting a towbar too).

I know this won't be cheap and I'd rather travel a distance to have a good honest job done than go for the convenience of someone more local.

From what I've read here so far I'd be inclined to bring it down to Allan's in Plymouth to have this done (although I'd need to confirm that he can do the roof modification).

I'd really welcome any opinions on this approach or other options.

TIA

[Bob]

I'm not sure Allan fits after market lift up roofs, (ie I'm sure he doesn't), but he's your man for the rest of it.

[peridot]

Ah, thanks Bob.

I was hoping to find someone to do it all at the same time, but if I have to split it then so be it.

If I were younger and had more time on my hands I'd do the roof myself.

[teenmal]

It might be worth your while contacting Allan and if he doesn't do the job himself he may be able to farm it out locally or recommend someone (that's how the motor trade works),this place is only 8 miles from his base for instance.


http://www.scconversions.co.uk/

[mikeonb4c]

The roof (if its to be well done) will likely be expensive. Might be worth asking yourself how badly you need it. If arches are rusted, quite possible other rust work will need tackling soon and at a cost. Allan would be good for getting an assessment of rust issues (and fixing them, hopefully) before committing to the lifting roof issue.

And welcome - hope you have many happy outings once you're sorted.

[peridot]

Thanks guys.

SC Conversions looks an option for the roof. I'll talk to Allan about that, I'm sure he'll be familiar with them.

I can't imagine us doing without it, and we had factored the likely cost into our decision to buy the camper, but a very good point about getting a full condition assessment before committing.

[mikeonb4c]

Thanks guys.

SC Conversions looks an option for the roof. I'll talk to Allan about that, I'm sure he'll be familiar with them.

I can't imagine us doing without it, and we had factored the likely cost into our decision to buy the camper, but a very good point about getting a full condition assessment before committing.

All sounds like a good plan to me.

[Scratch]

When I bought my tin top 2 years ago I had plans for a conversion and pop top roof. 2 years later, after many enjoyable trips and overnight stays, I still don't have either (and won't in the future), but we do have a drive away awning, a cobb (brilliant) and a small gas hob. It's up to you but I would strongly suggest a few days out and weekends away before you make a final decision. Whatever, you will love the Bongo experience!

[mikeonb4c]

Worth remembering that the tintop has a significant edge in handling and performance for not having the weight of a pop top atop its roof - this is especially true of the heavy Mazda AFT but probably also to some extent with an after market pop top. Be wary also of cheap offerings as i suspect there could be some have-a-go suppliers out there: the quality and engineering is unlikely to match that of the original AFT though at least it won't have the ageing electric operation!

[Bongolia]

Great believer in suck it and see.
Its easy to get enthusiastic and spend money on things you think you are going to need and then never use use them. I have loads of stuff like that and a trailer to put them in but I tend to travel as light as I can.
Have a look at Muzorewa post. Not an awning or tent in sight 4500 mls!
Keep wonga in rocket until you now where to put it.
Sarf Lundon thing, sorry

[Scratch]

I wasn't trying to be clever - just giving some advice from my own experiences. I happily admit to having a garage full of various items that I bought for the Bongo that I have never used.

[peridot]

No, I really appreciate the helpful comments and it has got me thinking.

We will most likely use an awning for anything more than overnight stops and cooking outside is bound to be easier, so perhaps we could keep the internal facilities for overnight halts only.

I think I'll get the mechanicals checked out, if they're ok get the corrosion dealt with, an then get a season's use in before deciding on anything further

[Bob]

Sounds like a good plan.

[haydn callow]

Sounds like a good plan.

Sounds like a excellent plan and also the right plan!!

[Thriller]

Have you considered JAL in the midlands?

They do various types of roof and come recommend by everyone I've discussed them with.