Drop Down Bed

[CaptainTed]

Hi.
We currently have an Autograph 79-6 with a drop down bed
It only comes part way down but we’d like to have it come right down to seat level.
there’s no obstructions as seat backs, cupboard etc can be removed and put away.
I understand it will most likely need new or different operating mechanisms but that’s fine. I’d even go as far as a new bed!
Who do I contact about such work?
Thanks.

 

[Gary Ward]

Hi Captain Ted

I have had a good look at what is needed and where items can be sourced, there are definite challenges to do this, but I believe it can be done if it is worth it.

The two guide rails that stabilise the bed needs to be double in length, the upholstery behind the driver seats needs to be adjusted to allow a cut out that guide rail to pass through so the bed goes right down. The extra length of guide rail behind the drivers seat is a more simple fit.

The seat end (opposite the bench seat) on the two seats behind the driver seat needs to be reshaped to allow the bed to go right down on top of the seats. Probably best to replace this side opposed to cut the original unit. This 18mm ply oak veneer.

The drop down bed needs to drop down approx 3 foot more to be the same level as the seats. The cables and fittings can be bought. The only bit for me at the moment that I am unsure of is the actual bed mechanism and whether the runners that run inside each strut of the bed would allow for another 3 foot of movement.

This is where I still need some engineers advice before I commit to making the changes

if I could get this bed to drop it would be the perfect van for me.

 

[CaptainTed]

Yes. It’s the only bit of the van we dislike to the degree we don’t use it and we make up the bed in the rear lounge which is crazy!
For me, I’d permanently remove the headrest behind the drivers seat and take out the 2 seatbelts as we’d never use them anyway. The back to the seat just pulls off with Velcro so can be removed for the night.
the cupboard under the bed is rubbish and unused anyway so again, I’d just take that off and put away.
definitely worth it to us as we’ve even looked at a new van so any alteration would be cheaper.
I see on the beds that come right down they use seatbelt straps.
I’m wondering if the lot can be stripped out and refitted with this system.

 

[CaptainTed]

Have you seen Project 2000 beds?