Hopefully with them direct...

Just waiting for an email reply.

As the quote I previously had was from 2023..so need it updated.

They Yorkshire, where you had yours done.

We obviously just shamelessly copying your roof setup.





View attachment 276068View attachment 276069

About VanMax​

From in-house design to development we are always striving to improve our roofs were possible we do this by using the latest manufacturing techniques to ensure we keep producing quality products.
Both our VW transporter and transit custom roofs are slimline/low profile giving them an aesthetically pleasing appearance which enhances the overall look of your camper van, we pride ourselves on practicality so all our elevating roofs come with a 2 piece roof and nosecone which dramatically reduces wind noise and assists aerodynamics.
If you are trade and are interested in any of our Poptops roofs, get in touch. We are always looking for new opportunities and fitters throughout the UK.
Check out our social media pages on our Facebook page and Instagram. Give us a follow, a like and a share to keep up with latest news

Millbrook Proving Ground​

Safety Systems - Seat Belt Anchorage​

  • Vanmax
  • ECE R14.07
  • Directive 76/115/EEC
  • VW Transporter T5/T6
  • Pop-top Roof
  • C17712

Get in touch​

Postal address
Vanmax Poptops Ltd
Unit 1 Calder Works
Methley Road
Castleford
West Yorkshire
WF10 1NX
Phone number(01977) 367 002
Emailinfo@vanmaxpoptops.com


++++++++


++++++++


+++++++++
looks like we are getting somewhere. . . after getting no reply from VANMAX

we done some searching and come across this. - Which Pop-Top?

saying that VANMAX have shut down.

1740484131140.png

...


but @Bigsidavies come to the rescue with:

"Vanmax are now supplied by Halifax Camoer conversions. Just not naming them Vanmax at the moment from what I can work out on social media.
They used to be the main installer of the Vanmax roof prior to Vanmax stopping production of the VW roof.
Iain no longer does Vanmax for VW. I know that Halifax Camper Conversions supplies and fits the Vanmax roof but they don’t call it van max. But they were the main fitter of Vanmax roofs when Iain manufactured them.
A company had bought the van max brand but has done nothing with it, so I’m not sure how that aligns with Halifax Campers."





1740484246104.png

1740484291652.png

im happy with the non tubby look of the roof. .

1740484349509.png



so we contacted them for a rough price. . .



the following day they come back with:

"Hi there price for a swb slimline poptop roof is £4000 and colour coding is £500 , for a bifold bed price is £450
Price includes slimline poptop roof with a scenic canvas fully retrimmed to choice of carpet lining with led lights fitted, yes of course we can fit the kitchen and bed for you we would have to discuss what exactly need doing before we can price this up like fridge hob and sink, gas and all electrics etc
Are you local to us as if so you could call in so we can show you the roofs and have a chat about your requirements thankyou

M Carney"



looks like we are back on again. . . .


High Quality Manufacturing of Slimline Poptops


Made to order each poptop roof is designed for you.


Included in starting price:
High Quality Fibreglass Top & Frame
2x Gas Struts
2x Hinges
Wind Deflector
360 View Scenic Tent (Colour Choices)
2x Front Fastening Straps
Elevating Bed Board
6x LED Spot Interior Ceiling Light
From £3850

Extras:
Roof Bed Mattress
Exterior Roof Colour Coding
Interior Ceiling Decorations
Roof Bars Fitting and Refitting
Solar Panels
Removal of Interiors
Interior Cab Carpeting
plus more...

+++++


CALL US
TEL: 01422 647840

TEL: 07568936284

EMAIL US
Info@halifaxcampervanconversions.co.uk

Info@halifaxpoptops.com

OPENING HOURS
Mon - Fri - 9.30am - 4.00pm

Sat - Sun - By Appointment Only

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION



Contact:

Unit 13C Asquith Bottom Mills
Sowerby Bridge, Halifax
West Yorkshire, HX6 3BT

++++++
 
I actually visited Halifax campers when I was getting my roof done. They were happy to show me a roof they were fitting and also a customer van they had just completed. Their work looked good to me at the time (having visited one place that was pretty shocking). Only reason I didn’t choose them was that Iain at Vanmax could fit it sooner. It was during the lock down covid chaos.
 
i got some more goodies for the Bus - from Travelin-Lite this time,

Auto Light switch,
wire taps,
MFSW wires,
new Brighter footwell kit (OEM light units)

and a few Mini ON/OFF switches from Amazon.



1740728116314.png


..


1740728132203.png
 
  • Like
Reactions: CAB
Chilly one today . . . . -2C

1740728243502.png1740728257941.png1740728276910.png


so i decided to be a proper flash git and fire up the Bus Heater from the comfort of me kitchen whilst taking Tea&Toast. :mexican wave:


Thermostat mode 24C
2hrs run timer




1740728513990.png1740728524278.png1740728539078.png



+++++++

i managed to capture the startup process on VRM

8A during startup

then drops to 0.6A whiles running on full power.



1740728642127.png1740728695224.png


thats in Watts . .

100w starting.
7w running.

very efficient these derv heaters.


1740728734509.png1740728744923.png



which gives an immediate temp rise inside the Bus,. . .

1740728838435.png




nice . . .

1740729031835.png

.







.
 
In other news, the Bus is booked in for the Pop-top install. - watch this space.

went for a few options.


standard slimline poptop install with,
colour coded roof,
Black Canvas,
fitting of my supplied 180w solar panel, and wired to the seat base.
possible Alcantara on underside of bedboard,
possible carpet lining cab roof,

will loose the roof chanel C-Rail, so opted for twin Vanmoose Multirails.



====

it should look something like this. . .

1740729461229.png1740729474898.png1740729495690.png1740729505218.png1740729613876.png1740729540331.png1740729483987.png

====


and when colour coded and fitted should look like this similar van to ours. . .


1740729700609.png1740729730757.png1740729752970.png

1740729475029.png

1740729540544.png



++++++++++

edit:

details added. . .

so we contacted them for a rough price. . .



the following day they come back with:

"Hi there price for a swb slimline poptop roof is £4000 and colour coding is £500 , for a bifold bed price is £450
Price includes slimline poptop roof with a scenic canvas fully retrimmed to choice of carpet lining with led lights fitted, yes of course we can fit the kitchen and bed for you we would have to discuss what exactly need doing before we can price this up like fridge hob and sink, gas and all electrics etc
Are you local to us as if so you could call in so we can show you the roofs and have a chat about your requirements thankyou

M Carney"



looks like we are back on again. . . .


High Quality Manufacturing of Slimline Poptops


Made to order each poptop roof is designed for you.


Included in starting price:
High Quality Fibreglass Top & Frame
2x Gas Struts
2x Hinges
Wind Deflector
360 View Scenic Tent (Colour Choices)
2x Front Fastening Straps
Elevating Bed Board
6x LED Spot Interior Ceiling Light
From £3850

Extras:
Roof Bed Mattress
Exterior Roof Colour Coding
Interior Ceiling Decorations
Roof Bars Fitting and Refitting
Solar Panels
Removal of Interiors
Interior Cab Carpeting
plus more...

+++++


CALL US
TEL: 01422 647840

TEL: 07568936284

EMAIL US
Info@halifaxcampervanconversions.co.uk

Info@halifaxpoptops.com

OPENING HOURS
Mon - Fri - 9.30am - 4.00pm

Sat - Sun - By Appointment Only

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION



Contact:

Unit 13C Asquith Bottom Mills
Sowerby Bridge, Halifax
West Yorkshire, HX6 3BT

++++++



Im building up a list of T6F members that have the VANMAX Roof.

"yes a VANMAX, but from the new guys that are supplying / fitting them. HALIFAX CAMPER CONVERSION"


@Bigsidavies - fitted at Vanmax 2019
@Led Sandwich
@Dellmassive - fitted at HCC 2015
@
@



PM Me to get added to the list. . . . .


.
 
Last edited:
@Dellmassive how much of a faff was the modem set up with the App. Just looked at the manual

Someone needs to do a video of it !!
It's simple you just send it a couple of text messages and you're done.

The modem itself is plug and play.

Just preactivate your SIM card in another phone so that you know it's online and working, pop the SIM in job done.

.

Basically you send the modem admin phone number and any other user phone numbers so that it will then ignore any random phone calls or messages from different people.
 
in other news, the Bus is booked in for the Pop-top install. - watch this space.

went for a few options.


standard slimline poptop install with,
colour coded roof,
Black Canvas,
fitting of my supplied 180w solar panel, and wired to the seat base.
possible Alcantara on underside of bedboard,
possible carpet lining cab roof,

will loose the roof chanel C-Rail, so opted for twin Vanmoose Multirails.



====

it should look something like this. . .

View attachment 276679View attachment 276680View attachment 276683View attachment 276684View attachment 276687View attachment 276686View attachment 276682

====


and when colour coded and fitted should look like this similar van to ours. . .


View attachment 276688View attachment 276689View attachment 276690

View attachment 276681

View attachment 276685


Solar Panel. . . 180W (24.0v VOC, 9.22A ISC) Black, Mono, rear junction.





I've asked the pop-top installer to fit the panel. . .

I've included the install guide in the panel box,

and I've highlighted the install notes about FILLING IN THE ROOF RIDGES, to create a smooth surface (for equal thermal expansion across the panel)

and I've highlighted the bonding methods,

but really I'm in there hands, ill voice my concerns about the fitting. (but they will be, weve fitted loads of panels and never had one go wrong) - but we know better.


if you have a decent quality panel from a good manufacture, them im 90% sure the failures are down to poor fitting and not following the install guide, most noticeably "filling in the roof ridges" so you have one smooth surface.



++++++++++++++++++

Solar panel specifications:

  • Peak power: 180W
  • Maximum power voltage: 20.5V
  • Maximum power current: 8.79A
  • Open circuit voltage: 24.0V
  • Short circuit current: 9.22A
  • Dimensions: 1470 x 665 x 3 mm
  • Weight: 3.15 kg

This product comes with a 3 year workmanship warranty which covers material and production defects. For more information please refer to our Terms and Conditions.

++++++++++++++++++

At Photonic Universe we love high quality solar products. That's why we have developed this highly durable black semi-flexible solar panel reinforced with fibreglass plastic and a strong ETFE surface and made from monocrystalline solar cells. This model also features a rear-fitted circular junction box and 3m dual core cable. This high efficiency 180W solar panel is perfect for permanent outdoor use to provide free electricity for charging 12V batteries to power various applications, such as in a motorhome, caravan, camper, boat, or for solar lighting systems, off-grid, and back up solar power systems. The panel can also be used to provide direct power supply for applications not sensitive to changes in input voltage / current (e.g. electric motors or pumps) and for various grid-tie applications.

Product features:

  • Robust construction using plastic reinforced with glass fibre creates a sturdy and durable solar panel
  • Special textured surface significantly reduces light reflection and improves performance in low light and cloudy conditions
  • Highly flexible design makes this panel ideal for curved roofs and surfaces where bonding is preferable (though it can also be fixed by bolts or screws)
  • The panel is incredibly light (only 3.15kg) and very thin (just 2mm) which is great for all vehicles
  • High resistance to salt water environments makes it perfect for boats and marine applications
  • Sealed waterproof design ensures it can be used in all weather conditions
  • Junction box on the back allows for a smooth and level surface, free of trip hazards and unsightly cables. Round shape for easy fitting
  • Fitted with a single length of high quality 3m dual core cable for easy installation and wiring
Strong ETFE coating:

In addition to the fibreglass reinforcement, the surface of this 180W semi-flexible solar panel is made of strong ETFE material which has a longer service life compared to standard semi-flexible solar panels. As a result, these particular semi-flexible solar panels are extremely hard-wearing and less prone to cracking, delamination and corrosion. The lightly textured coating of this panel creates an anti-reflective surface which allows the panel to absorb a far greater amount of light, thereby increasing efficiency. ETFE material has long been used in applications where durability and high-temperature resistance is required, such as in the Eden Project, Cornwall. You can read more about ETFE and its benefits here.

High quality 5-busbar solar cells:

This panel also features new generation 5-busbar solar cells, which are more efficient than the 2, 3 or 4 busbar solar cells used in most other solar panels, and are able to extract more power from the same surface area. This results in a smaller overall solar panel, which is ideal for applications where space is limited.

Simple, professional installation:

This particular model features the junction box and cable on the rear side of the panel to create a completely level surface and professional finish after installation. Unlike other solar panels, the junction box on this solar panel is a circular shape with only one dual core cable (3m length) attached, allowing for simplified installation. Please note: in order for this panel to be flush-mounted, a recess must be cut in to the roof/surface.

This solar panel has a unique black backing, making it ideal for discreet and aesthetically pleasing installation on dark coloured roofs, vehicles or mounting surfaces. Please note that this solar panel is not 'ultra jet-black' - the exact hue may vary marginally from panel to panel, depending on the batch of solar cells.

Anti-reflective textured surface:

The textured surface of this solar panel reduces the reflection of light whilst maximising the absorption of light from every possible angle. This ensures high performance in low light or cloudy conditions, or when the light falls at an angle (in the morning, evening, or winter).

Click on the Details and Specifications tab for more information about this product.


1740820431885.png1740820442538.png





1740820470210.png1740820485560.png1740820523070.png





++++++++++


1740820835747.png1740820841822.png



+++++++++++++



























.

1740820485603.png

1740820523111.png
 
Heads Up on fitting these !! If you want to keep the full range of height and for/aft adjustment on the OEM seat, you will have to trim a fair chunk of the bottom edges on the lower side plastic trims (both sides of each chair) and a section deeper where the adjuster handle sits. You will be able to mark it on the up/down & for/aft positions to see how much to take off.
 
Heads Up on fitting these !! If you want to keep the full range of height and for/aft adjustment on the OEM seat, you will have to trim a fair chunk of the bottom edges on the lower side plastic trims (both sides of each chair) and a section deeper where the adjuster handle sits. You will be able to mark it on the up/down & for/aft positions to see how much to take off.
Is this not the same for all non-OEM swivel bases, or are there options that don’t require trimming?

Personally, I’ve never trimmed mine, as I keep the seat height raised using the built-in height adjuster. This provides enough clearance for normal swivel operation and is also the most comfortable position for my height. I’m using Sportscraft swivels.
 
At 6ft tall I have always had my seat on its lowest setting, so adding the RIB swivel with the packers to get over the handbrake added 43mm. I can just about live with this extra 43mm if the seat can still adjust all the way back down, which it would not do without trimming. Still feel like my head position is a bit near the roof but I will get used to it i suppose. The new bonus is that my other half does not need to make any height adjustment when she drives as the extra 43mm was just about where she would set in anyhow.
 
Solar Panel. . . 180W (24.0v VOC, 9.22A ISC) Black, Mono, rear junction.





I've asked the pop-top installer to fit the panel. . .

I've included the install guide in the panel box,

and I've highlighted the install notes about FILLING IN THE ROOF RIDGES, to create a smooth surface (for equal thermal expansion across the panel)

and I've highlighted the bonding methods,

but really I'm in there hands, ill voice my concerns about the fitting. (but they will be, weve fitted loads of panels and never had one go wrong) - but we know better.


if you have a decent quality panel from a good manufacture, them im 90% sure the failures are down to poor fitting and not following the install guide, most noticeably "filling in the roof ridges" so you have one smooth surface.



++++++++++++++++++

Solar panel specifications:

  • Peak power: 180W
  • Maximum power voltage: 20.5V
  • Maximum power current: 8.79A
  • Open circuit voltage: 24.0V
  • Short circuit current: 9.22A
  • Dimensions: 1470 x 665 x 3 mm
  • Weight: 3.15 kg

This product comes with a 3 year workmanship warranty which covers material and production defects. For more information please refer to our Terms and Conditions.

++++++++++++++++++

At Photonic Universe we love high quality solar products. That's why we have developed this highly durable black semi-flexible solar panel reinforced with fibreglass plastic and a strong ETFE surface and made from monocrystalline solar cells. This model also features a rear-fitted circular junction box and 3m dual core cable. This high efficiency 180W solar panel is perfect for permanent outdoor use to provide free electricity for charging 12V batteries to power various applications, such as in a motorhome, caravan, camper, boat, or for solar lighting systems, off-grid, and back up solar power systems. The panel can also be used to provide direct power supply for applications not sensitive to changes in input voltage / current (e.g. electric motors or pumps) and for various grid-tie applications.

Product features:

  • Robust construction using plastic reinforced with glass fibre creates a sturdy and durable solar panel
  • Special textured surface significantly reduces light reflection and improves performance in low light and cloudy conditions
  • Highly flexible design makes this panel ideal for curved roofs and surfaces where bonding is preferable (though it can also be fixed by bolts or screws)
  • The panel is incredibly light (only 3.15kg) and very thin (just 2mm) which is great for all vehicles
  • High resistance to salt water environments makes it perfect for boats and marine applications
  • Sealed waterproof design ensures it can be used in all weather conditions
  • Junction box on the back allows for a smooth and level surface, free of trip hazards and unsightly cables. Round shape for easy fitting
  • Fitted with a single length of high quality 3m dual core cable for easy installation and wiring
Strong ETFE coating:

In addition to the fibreglass reinforcement, the surface of this 180W semi-flexible solar panel is made of strong ETFE material which has a longer service life compared to standard semi-flexible solar panels. As a result, these particular semi-flexible solar panels are extremely hard-wearing and less prone to cracking, delamination and corrosion. The lightly textured coating of this panel creates an anti-reflective surface which allows the panel to absorb a far greater amount of light, thereby increasing efficiency. ETFE material has long been used in applications where durability and high-temperature resistance is required, such as in the Eden Project, Cornwall. You can read more about ETFE and its benefits here.

High quality 5-busbar solar cells:

This panel also features new generation 5-busbar solar cells, which are more efficient than the 2, 3 or 4 busbar solar cells used in most other solar panels, and are able to extract more power from the same surface area. This results in a smaller overall solar panel, which is ideal for applications where space is limited.

Simple, professional installation:

This particular model features the junction box and cable on the rear side of the panel to create a completely level surface and professional finish after installation. Unlike other solar panels, the junction box on this solar panel is a circular shape with only one dual core cable (3m length) attached, allowing for simplified installation. Please note: in order for this panel to be flush-mounted, a recess must be cut in to the roof/surface.

This solar panel has a unique black backing, making it ideal for discreet and aesthetically pleasing installation on dark coloured roofs, vehicles or mounting surfaces. Please note that this solar panel is not 'ultra jet-black' - the exact hue may vary marginally from panel to panel, depending on the batch of solar cells.

Anti-reflective textured surface:

The textured surface of this solar panel reduces the reflection of light whilst maximising the absorption of light from every possible angle. This ensures high performance in low light or cloudy conditions, or when the light falls at an angle (in the morning, evening, or winter).

Click on the Details and Specifications tab for more information about this product.


View attachment 276823View attachment 276824





View attachment 276825View attachment 276826View attachment 276828





++++++++++


View attachment 276830View attachment 276831



+++++++++++++



























.

View attachment 276827

View attachment 276829

had a quick chat with the installer and showed him the solar panel manual, as suspected his answer was:

"the roof ridges are the same as on your van roof, I find these instructions strange really as we have always bonded the solar to the roof without filling them in (never had any issues) we have them on all our hire vans like this and all other customers too, if you have any air gap between roof and solar panel it can prevent over heating and improve efficiency"

Thats fine and i respect his experience and knowledge. however, my own experience tells me that this is not the case and that the air gaps cause differential thermal expansion which causes the bus bars to crack and the panel fails. . . basically the suck down high ridge bit doesn't move as much as the lower air gap bit with the hot/cold day/night thermal cycles.

this is also backed up with the install manual telling you to FILL THE GAPS. - so you have a smooth even surface to bond too.

anyway. . . no issues, I've asked him to fill that gaps with (something that im looking for now) when he sticks the panel down, so that the mounting will be even and the low ridges will be filled. - which he is fine with.


+++++++++++++++++++++


so just had a measure up.

looks like the high/low gaps are:


7-6-5-6-7mm across the roof. with 5mm being the smallest in the centre line section.

so im thinking i need to get a 5mm spacer, to be cut into strips to fill that gaps.

i seem to remember @Rids done a very detailed approach . .

let me see if i can find his build post.


1740840031712.png











.
 
  • Like
Reactions: CAB
had a quick chat with the installer and showed him the solar panel manual, as suspected his answer was:

"the roof ridges are the same as on your van roof, I find these instructions strange really as we have always bonded the solar to the roof without filling them in (never had any issues) we have them on all our hire vans like this and all other customers too, if you have any air gap between roof and solar panel it can prevent over heating and improve efficiency"

Thats fine and i respect his experience and knowledge. however, my own experience tells me that this is not the case and that the air gaps cause differential thermal expansion which causes the bus bars to crack and the panel fails. . . basically the suck down high ridge bit doesn't move as much as the lower air gap bit with the hot/cold day/night thermal cycles.

this is also backed up with the install manual telling you to FILL THE GAPS. - so you have a smooth even surface to bond too.

anyway. . . no issues, I've asked him to fill that gaps with (something that im looking for now) when he sticks the panel down, so that the mounting will be even and the low ridges will be filled. - which he is fine with.


+++++++++++++++++++++


so just had a measure up.

looks like the high/low gaps are:


7-6-5-6-7mm across the roof. with 5mm being the smallest in the centre line section.

so im thinking i need to get a 5mm spacer, to be cut into strips to fill that gaps.

i seem to remember @Rids done a very detailed approach . .

let me see if i can find his build post.


View attachment 276885











.
@Rids work here:




1740840938779.png1740840984236.png1740840974168.png1740841013001.png






and to add balance. . . .

@Dilbert shows the PV LOGIC install guide that's states. . .


on a ribbed roof, use the same method, double glue, but leave the rib base open !!



1740841289555.png












.
 
Interesting that you've gone for flexis .
I looked at these a while ago but all the negative feedback regarding flexis made me 2nd guess it.
i love flexi panels, - i like the slimline look and a van.

i have loads, and dont have issues with them. . these ones were stuck on the shed for years with no problems. .



1740841584792.png




..

and these ones i have hanging in the garden, no probs.

1740841657425.png


.



.

Sure solid framed panel are the most durable, there's no disagreement from anyone on that.


but i would like the stealth no panel look on the van, plus living in London there is 1.98Mtr height restrictions on every corner. - so the added height of roof bar and framed panel is not preferable.

so for this first pop-top, im taking the gamble and fitting flexi.

i have a 180w and a 160w. . . . ill fit the 180w on the Bus, and sell the 160w. . .

i was going to fir the 160w on the Van, - but I've not needed one in 5 years . . . . so don't think ill bother now. (the 230ah Fogstar and 50A dc-dc have me covered)



.

more info:




******************************************************************


SOLAR:

My Panels:




*****************************************************









.

1740841571084.png
 
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