I appreciate the pvc pipe idea, unfortunately the problem isn't the top so much as the aluminum frame. It has an aluminum channel that matches the shape of the rear of the halfcab(almost 3'x7'), and then two U shaped hoops that support the actual soft top. Then you have the two aluminum bed rails. When it originally arrived from softtopper last year it came in a cardboard box that was approximately 4'x8'x1' that was ripped half open with the framework exposed... That was my only complaint with them, they're packaging sucked, but thankfully nothing was damaged or missing.
I've had a few bad shipping experiences with things I've bought over the past year, that it's not worth the risk to me, even with insurance... Unlike softtopper, I can't just ship out a replacement piece if something gets ruined.
If anybody is interested from central/western Pa or Md, I could meet you on a weekend at Cabela's exit #29 on route 78 in Pa. That would save you guys almost 90 miles and a couple of hours. Plus Cabela's is fun to just wander around and check out their aquarium and their displays(all free). My wife and kids are almost always up for a trip to Cracker Barrel and cabela's...
