> Is it easier to replace the canvas with the top off the bus or back on??

There's no benefit to removing the top, and in fact it will make it
difficult or impossible to see if you have the canvas properly lined up.

Use a cardboard box, folding chair, or whatever to prop up the poptop
without the use of the prop bar.  Disconnect the top of the prop bar, I
think (as I recall it will be in your way).  Use a stubby screwdriver to
remove the million little screws that hold the bottom of the old canvas on,
and pull out the two million staples that hold the top of the canvas on.
Line up the new canvas as best you can, and start stapling the top on
(re-using the plastic strip that the staples go through).  As I recall, the
instructions say to start at the center of the top and work your way to the
corners. However, one list member (Vanagon or Type 2 list, I forget which)
once posted that he ignored the instructions and started at the bottom, and
got the job done in half the time; check the archives and take your chances.

Here's where the fun part comes.  It's basically trial-and-error getting the
tension right on the canvas, so that it doesn't pull too tight when the top
is raised, and isn't too loose.  Once you get some of the staples in, put in
a couple of screws and try raising the top.  If it looks like the canvas is
even, keep going; otherwise pull some staples and realign.  Installing the
canvas is not a difficult job, but it can take several hours, so pick a day
when you have plenty of time and patience.

Requisite plug:  I have replacement canvas (three-window/three-screen) for
$129 (pre-68), $189 (68-73), $229 ('74-79) or $249 (Vanagon).  This canvas
is higher quality than original, and is a tan color.

- Ron Salmon
 The Bus Depot
 http://www.busdepot.com
 (215) 234-VWVW