Roof Pop-Out
One of the features of the split window, or "splittie," is the pop-up tent/camper top off the roof. This consists of the roof panel cut-out, four bows (curved wood or metal structures on the arc of the roof), corner braces, the roof molding and screws, nuts and fixtures to affix them in place. This makes up the housing for the roof structure where the pop-up tent is placed via a water-tight combing and a series of four retractable arms. The tent/tarp was made from canvas in the early production models. Modern replacement tarps/tents are custom-made from synthetic materials such as Gore-Tex, nylon or polyesters.
Cabinets and Kitchen
Splitties use a combination of cabinetry and sink housings for the small galley/kitchen in the vans. Sinks use a series of drains and hoses to either bring fresh water in from the internal holding tank, or from outside water connections. Sinks drain into a gray-water holding tank. A water pump is used as part of the kitchen sink parts mechanism. A storage cabinet is set into the sink/kitchen housings. Cabinets are assembled with wood panels, screws, bushings and washers. Tie rods secure them to the vehicles frame, preventing shifting and wobble.
Bedding and Seats
The split-wagon VWs have a bench that folds out into a bed. Using a series of snap-catches and buttons allows the folded bench to remain in place during driving or transit. The bench was made from a open-celled foam originally, and was covered in either canvas material or leather. After-market upholstery from almost any material is used, as of April 2010. Benches are secured to the van frame with rivets and mounting plates, a safety measure. Mounting plates and brackets are used for the armrests and backrests with the seat bench.
Article Written By Eric Cedric
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.
