How much do caravan pop top lifters cost?
Caravan pop top lifters cost range from:
- Lower range: Around $139.95 – $169.95
- Mid range: Around $159.00 – $170.00
- Upper range: Around $239.00
How Do Pop Top Caravan Lifters Work?
Pop top lifters are spring assisted scissor mechanisms that support the caravan’s roof when it is elevated. Most pop top caravans have four lifter assemblies (one at each corner or pair on each end) that remain hidden along the interior walls when the roof is down.
When you unlatch the roof and push upward, the lifters’ internal springs counterbalance the weight of the roof, making it much easier to lift. As the scissor arms extend, they lock into a rigid frame, holding the roof up securely using the tension of the springs and the geometry of the mechanism. To lower the roof, you simply pull down-the springs compress and the scissor arms fold neatly as the roof comes back to its travel position.
8 Key Pop Top Lifter Features
When shopping for pop top lifters (whether upgrading an existing caravan or replacing worn parts), pay attention to several key features and specifications.
1. Lifter Weight Capacity
Every lifter is rated for a maximum roof weight it can hold up or assist with. This is usually given per lifter (each unit). Make sure the lifter’s rating covers the weight of your pop-top roof including any additional load (e.g. air conditioners, solar panels, rack etc.).
- Standard Lifter Capacity: Approx. 30-35 kg per unit.
- Heavy Duty: Approx. ~40 kg per unit.
If your roof carries extra equipment or you find it very hard to lift, a higher-capacity (stronger spring) lifter may be appropriate.
2. Lifter Height & Sizes
Pop top lifters come in different lengths which determine how high they can raise the roof. The bottom bracket length (the distance between mounting points when the lifter is closed) and the maximum extension height are important. You’ll want a lifter that matches your caravan’s required roof height.
Common sizes include:
- Shorter Lifters: (e~700 mm base length) that lift around 560 mm high.
- Longer Lifters: (900 mm or even 1200 mm base) that can lift the roof higher (685 mm up to ~930 mm).
Always check the specifications to ensure the replacement lifter will raise the roof to the correct height for comfortable headroom and align with existing bolt holes.
3. Material and Build
Most pop top lifters are made of steel, but there are variations in design. Flat steel lifters (such as Breha brand) use solid flat metal bars in a scissor formation and are known to be very robust.
Tubular steel lifters have a hollow tube construction for the arms. Flat lifters are generally stronger and slimmer, whereas tubular lifters may flex a bit more. Ensure the build quality is high-galvanized or powder coated steel offers rust resistance for longevity.
4. Lifter Spring Tension (Standard vs Heavy Duty)
The internal spring provides the lifting force. Some lifters come with a “standard” spring suitable for an unladen roof, while others come with or offer heavy-duty springs for extra lift assistance.
For instance, Breha’s standard lifters hold ~35 kg. Heavy-duty version holds ~40 kg. If your pop top feels too heavy to push up, consider a lifter with a stronger spring or see if a heavy-duty spring upgrade is available.
5. Compatibility & Mounting
Replacing pop top lifters isn’t one size fits all solution. The new lifter must physically fit in the space and align with the mounting points of your caravan. This means the hinge width and bracket style should be compatible.
6. Ease of Installation and Adjustability
Look for lifters that come with instructions and any necessary hardware. Features like multiple pre-drilled mounting holes (both on the vertical and horizontal flanges) can give flexibility when aligning the new lifter.
Installing pop top lifters typically involves drilling out rivets/bolts of the old unit and riveting or bolting the new one in place. Ensure you or your installer can access the mounting area easily. Some lifters might come “pre-tensioned” (often held in a closed position by a wire or clip for safety).
Follow all safety instructions-the springs are under tension and should be handled carefully during installation or removal to avoid injury.
7. Availability of Lifter Spare Parts
A good pop top lifter design will have spare parts available, such as replacement springs, rollers, and rivets. This means you can service the lifter over time without replacing the entire unit. Check if the brand offers spare spring kits or if generic parts can fit.
8. Safety and Support
Consider how the roof is secured when up. Pop top scissor lifters generally hold the roof by spring tension and their fully extended position. They do not usually have a secondary locking pin (unlike some fold-out camper mechanisms). Therefore, it’s wise to use the supplied travel latches (to lock the roof down when towing) and consider additional support poles or braces if needed in certain conditions.