2015 Promaster 118" Low Roof
I have been way behind on my van conversion due to having a double bathroom remodel that has taken precedence; so my wife tells me.
We are planning to camp for a week of mountain biking in the Southwest starting this Saturday, so I built a "temporary" sleep platform that we can use until I get the folding dinette built later this summer.
I'm 200# and when I bounced hard on the edge of the platform it was solid, so I have no concerns that it will hold two people without collapsing; keep in mind that being glued is key to having a strong platform.
The 2 x 4's could be replaced with 2 x 6's if you really want some strength.
A 2 x 4 vertical brace under the middle support, running to the floor, would be an easy security blanket.
Dimensions: 73" x 42" (Overall)
Parts:
2 x 4 x 8' (4)
12 x 4' x 8' Plywood (1)
Construction screws 1.5" (~40)
10/24 x 3/4" machine screws (10)
Medium fender washers (10)
Wood Glue
Rivet Nuts 10/24 (10)
Everbilt 1-1/2 in. x 14-Gauge x 48 in. Zinc-Plated Slotted Angle: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt...in-Zinc-Plated-Slotted-Angle-802417/204225778
Parts Cutting:
Plywood 73 x 42
2 x 4 x 73 (2)
2 x 4 x 70 (1)
2 x 4 x 39 (2)
Slotted Angle 40.5" (2), round exposed corners
First things first, look at the van and identify the retention nylon tree "plugs" that hold the top of the lower panel in place, over the wheel wells. The center three holes are in line and ready for Rivetnuts, however the last hole on either end is too low, so you'll need to drill new 1/4" holes (above the two existing holes), in line with the three usable holes.
Once the holes are drilled and the five Rivetnuts are installed, put the steel slotted angle iron in place using 10/24 x 3/4" machine head screws and medium fender washers.
Now build the frame with the 73" 2 x 4's to the outside, 39" 2 x 4's to the inside, then add the 70" 2 x 4 as the central beam between the 39" 2 x 4's. Plywood on top, use the plywood to square the frame. Glue and screw as you go.
Ideally you will install the platform before the glue has dried, that way it will dry in place and fit better over the long run.
Final install should include the addition of a few wood screws inserted from below attaching the slotted angle iron to the wood frame.
Total build time four hours including drilling and placing Rivetnuts.
I have been way behind on my van conversion due to having a double bathroom remodel that has taken precedence; so my wife tells me.
We are planning to camp for a week of mountain biking in the Southwest starting this Saturday, so I built a "temporary" sleep platform that we can use until I get the folding dinette built later this summer.
I'm 200# and when I bounced hard on the edge of the platform it was solid, so I have no concerns that it will hold two people without collapsing; keep in mind that being glued is key to having a strong platform.
The 2 x 4's could be replaced with 2 x 6's if you really want some strength.
A 2 x 4 vertical brace under the middle support, running to the floor, would be an easy security blanket.
Dimensions: 73" x 42" (Overall)
Parts:
2 x 4 x 8' (4)
12 x 4' x 8' Plywood (1)
Construction screws 1.5" (~40)
10/24 x 3/4" machine screws (10)
Medium fender washers (10)
Wood Glue
Rivet Nuts 10/24 (10)
Everbilt 1-1/2 in. x 14-Gauge x 48 in. Zinc-Plated Slotted Angle: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt...in-Zinc-Plated-Slotted-Angle-802417/204225778
Parts Cutting:
Plywood 73 x 42
2 x 4 x 73 (2)
2 x 4 x 70 (1)
2 x 4 x 39 (2)
Slotted Angle 40.5" (2), round exposed corners
First things first, look at the van and identify the retention nylon tree "plugs" that hold the top of the lower panel in place, over the wheel wells. The center three holes are in line and ready for Rivetnuts, however the last hole on either end is too low, so you'll need to drill new 1/4" holes (above the two existing holes), in line with the three usable holes.
Once the holes are drilled and the five Rivetnuts are installed, put the steel slotted angle iron in place using 10/24 x 3/4" machine head screws and medium fender washers.
Now build the frame with the 73" 2 x 4's to the outside, 39" 2 x 4's to the inside, then add the 70" 2 x 4 as the central beam between the 39" 2 x 4's. Plywood on top, use the plywood to square the frame. Glue and screw as you go.
Ideally you will install the platform before the glue has dried, that way it will dry in place and fit better over the long run.
Final install should include the addition of a few wood screws inserted from below attaching the slotted angle iron to the wood frame.
Total build time four hours including drilling and placing Rivetnuts.
