How to install headbanger cabinet in a non-Westy van?

[Walty87]

I have an 84 country homes camper that I’ve installed westy interior into, but I’m kinda stumped when it comes to installing the headbanger cabinet. Obviously I’ll mount one side to the westy closet… but no idea what to do for the other side? The rear speakers have been removed and My cheep curtain rod is in the way, but even I figure out the curtain rod I have no idea where to attach the cabinet on that side?

I didn’t have much luck searching…

Wondering what other people have done?

Thanks!

[DuncanS]

This is a cross section of all the tin at the rain gutter. Disregard the red and the 1/4" thick pieces--that is another discussion.

The tin just above the horizontal piece which is part of the gutter is fairly thick. The curved part below that is pretty thin and has no real strength to it. Its purpose is only to get the head liner to fit smoothly.

I would bolt a strip of something to the curved upper part where it is flattish and fasten the head banger to it. Once you have an attachment point, it can be at any height you want. I suggest high so it won't interfere with the rear view out the back hatch window when driving, which is a pain for the conventional Westy styles.

WARNING!!! There are wires in there to lights and stuff, so be very careful when you drill. I would first go in with an 1/8" drill. Drill through a piece of dowel so when all chucked up no more than 3/16" of drill is showing. This will provide a stop so you don't ding any wires. Then go to 3/8" with the same technique and with a light and a piece of coat hanger to fish around see what you have for the wires. Since there isn't any real access, I would use toggles to fasten in the attachment strip. At least 4 if 1/8" machine bolts and 3 if 1/4"

Duncan

[Honuak]

If you don't need/have AC I would not install the headbanger at all personally. We took ours out and enjoy the more open feel. Just my opinion. But if you have ever tried to um...do stuff other than sleep in a full westy you will wish you had that extra space.

[SCM]

[fxr]

[danfromsyr]

I have a ASI Riviera with a non-headbanger rear cross shelf.
mine is out of the wire shelving (silver) stuff but you could use a board.
the point is that a non-westy has an arched roof line vs a lower flat roofline of a westy.
and we find this handy for carrying the linens and shower kit.

it doesn't come down any lower than the TOP of the rear window. so not as in your face as the headbanger..

sorry for the bad image.. but you can just make it out up top in there.

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[SCM]

[jlrftype7]

[danfromsyr]

indeed.. and 10 years later he still owns the vehicles.

I am fortunate enough to be his chauffer for the time we have together.
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[Red Ryder]