Has anyone tried this? Updated 6-9-10

[Woodbutcher]

I was wandering the pick and pull junk yard today looking for parts and ideas for a new build. I found an electric 3rd seat folding couch-bed out of a full size Van. Well I thought maybe I could take and make a drop floor and be able to sit or lie down. Has anyone tried this. The frame and switches were only 35 bucks so I am not out much if it doesn't work. Any thoughts would be helpful.

[wlivesey]

That sounds like a really good idea. Do you have a picture of the parts so we can see what you're working with?

[Woodbutcher]

Here is what it looks like. The upholstery was disgusting so I left it. They also had manual seat but they were the same price so I went with the flash and got the electric frame.

[Jst83]

Nice idea I have a futon in mine as it's 6'wide. What are the dimensions on it and how much weight? could be worth a thought to a rebuild over my wooden rail system that really is a pain.

[Miriam C.]

If you can get it to expand forward it sounds like a good idea. The only one I have ever seen up close expanded in both directions.

The motor control has great possibilities though. Wonder if it could raise a hatch?

[Woodbutcher]

I hooked up a battery and both motors do work. So that is good. Did not run it out to see if it opens in both directions. They did have a manual seat that did only move forward. I can always go back to that if this doesn't work. But I also like the idea of opening a hatch that way

The seat measures about 45-46" wide. I was going to make it queen width and have it up against the front of the tear. I would have to make a second cushion down at the foot area to make it long enough. But I think that is the easier part. As for the weight. I don't think that should be a problem. Since the seat is made to hold up to 3 adults I should be OK. The back when it folds down can rest on a cleat.

[halfpastsix]

I think they meant the weight of the kit in a small camper!

[Woodbutcher]

The unit weighs about 40 lbs.

[Woodbutcher]

So far I have assembled my HF 4x8 trailer. I took out the 2 center cross pieces and inserted them into the side rails for strength. I moved the axle back about 5". I'll be putting in a drop floor.



The electric seat had 2 bad worm gears.. So I gave up on that unit and went back to the junk yard for a manual unit I had seen the first time. The guy sold me that one for ten bucks. Cut it down to the right height. Then I started to look at that first electric unit to toss it out. Decided to strip off the electrical and the screw drives. Miriams electric hatch idea in the back of my mind. Then I notice that the same company made both units. Several of the parts are identical. After some cutting and fabricating I have 2 identical units. So I went to the local foam guy to see about mattress/seat cushions. If I cut the foam at 30 degree angle the cushions line up and stay tight. My plan is to have the 2 seats face each other with a drop well for feet and a removable table. When folded flat the bed will be 78" long and about 58" wide. When in a seated position there will be 18" between the cushions for legs. The new frames only weigh about 10lbs each. Tomorrow I will firm up the profile and start the floor. Here is what it looks like.

[Miriam C.]

Looks good to me! Now when you figure out the hatch thingy---