Conversion Van - Top Types

Top Types

The most basic difference in conversion vans is the type of "top".

Low Tops- these are the older type of vans. Low top vans retain the factory roof on the van. These vans are better aerodynamically but have less room inside. During the '80s, these vans fell out of favor because TVs, VCRs, and video games that became very popular were also very bulky. With the development of integrated DVDs and flat screen monitors, these vans have recovered somewhat, but they continue to run a distant second to high topped vans.

High Tops- These vans have a portion of the original factory roof cut away and a fiberglass "high top" or "elk roof" or "high-raised roof" added. This has become the signature feature of a conversion van. A high top allows occupants to stand in the van without bending over. For structural purposes, a section of the roof is often left at the front and back of the van. Modern vans, which have heavier frames, use less roof section than older vans. These fore and aft sections often have, lights, storage shelves, stereo components, and, on older models, TVs and VCRs much of which sits on the original roof section. The high top is a signature inclusion on disability vans because a wheelchair occupant can be lifted into the van without ducking. It has also become a requirement on campervans. The high top also allows for vastly more storage. Also, the early TVs and VCRs could be mounted in the ceiling, so they did not inhibit movement and leg room in the van. The first high tops started not much higher than the factory roof, then raised aft of the driver's seat with two skylights mounted in this section, typically flanking a TV antenna. This soon fell out of favor due to leaking and light hitting the occupants. High tops began to rise at a gentle angle with a steeply raked center spine section. The center section housed an internally mounted antenna and allowed for larger 13" TVs. With the advent of flat panel TVs and small DVD players replacing VCRs, the need for high tops has been reduced. However, the increased space is highly desired by customers, especially since conversion vans have moved toward the luxury end of the automotive spectrum, and the majority of conversion vans are still produced with a high top.