Rock n Roll Bed aka Futon

[cjmccormick]

I am trying to find plans on how to make this exactly in my Ford '92 E150. I want it to be in the back of the van hoping to at least have a Full Size bed or a double when sleeping, and a bench/recliner during the day. If worse comes to worse, im just going to have to figure out a way to build a heavy duty frame with a lot of storage place underneith with bed/mattress on top.<br /><br /><br />Needs to be heavy duty since Im a bigger guy.

 

[WanderingRain]

My experience with futon frames is that that frame creaks after a while. One is better off just chucking that frame (or reinforcing it) and just using the foam over some boards and crate storage beneath.&nbsp;

 

[Les H]

I just did this- well, in reverse. I had a fold up platform bed that was fine for one, but wasnt right at all for my wife and i. I bought a metal frame futon and raised it up by putting 4x4 lumber under it and attaching to the legs with heavy "L" bracing and screws. Ill have to let you all know how it worked next week, heading out for labor day weekend.

 

[Pikachu711]

My experience with futon frames is that that frame creaks after a while. One is better off just chucking that frame (or reinforcing it) and just using the foam over some boards and crate storage beneath.&nbsp;

<br /><br />That's what I plan to do when I build my bed. I'll be putting some plywood on top of the milk crates. It will be hinged&nbsp;nearest the wall to raise the plywood to access the&nbsp;underbed storage. Since I'll be traveling alone I won't need anything bigger than a twin-sized bed at most. I'm a little under 6 feet tall so I may not have the option of putting the bed against the back van door.<br /><br />I like the vans that have the bed parallel to the back doors. But I'd have to measure the&nbsp;width to be sure that I wouldn't be too uncomfortable in a bed that's too short. It essential to&nbsp;have&nbsp;a comfortable bed. If you can't get a good nights sleep the rest of your day won't be much better.

 

[yesican]

Since we're on the conversation of folding beds, I was at a 2nd hand store today that had a folding camper bed.&nbsp; The metal frame appeared to be something you would have to screw down to a built up frame because it did't have legs.&nbsp; I was wondering if anyone knows if these are comfortable to sleep on?&nbsp;If its still available on pay day, I'd like to pick it up and use it for the pickup instead of using the over-the-&nbsp;cab bed which is slightly "squishy" due to lack of headroom and&nbsp;length.&nbsp; I'm 5'7" and the inside is approx 5'10".&nbsp; Really, that is just not long enough when using blankets and pillows.<br /><br />Rae&nbsp;

 

[SoulRaven]

What i did was buy the double size futon frame, cut it down the middle (Short ways) and inserted solid dowels in the frame to stretch to the walls... Welded it in place and ran supports... Works like a charm, a 4 inch futon mattress over springs and you will be in for a comfortable sleep... Also measure for head space leaving plenty of space under the bed for storage...

 

[Guest]

I just finished the majority of my insulation and paneling remodel, and was going to put the bed in the back like you're talking about doing. I currently have a futon that I sleep on that has a home made wooden frame. I am actually&nbsp;considering changing my idea and putting it behind the drivers seat instead and putting the "kitchen" area in the back along the doors. And using the under areas for storage of the prop tank, batteries and the generator as well as the gray water area. on the passenger side behind the door will be a storage area and "entertainment" center. I think this will work out pretty nicely but I am still playing around with it.<br /><br />As a side note, the insulation is a major success. I used the white foam with the foil backing and put the foil side out and then lined the inside with the foil bubble wrap before sheeting with 5mm plywood. Worked VERY well when I was working outside on replacing the flooring the other day.<br />&nbsp;