Vannin' Home Forums General Discussion Upholstery and Interior mods Platform bed plans? Ideas?

I'd like to build a platform bed for my van, something simple that can be easily removed if necessary. My thought is to use a sheet of 1/2" ply cut to roughly 4 feet long and the width of my van from inside wall to inside wall. Should I use 2x4 to build a frame under it? Is a simple square frame enough, or should I brace it underneath? Can I use the rear wheelwells to support the platform in the front, or should I use 2x4 legs front and back? I have some rough plans drawn up, but I'd like to know what works and what doesn't before I dig in. Pics would be especially helpful, my guidance counselors always told me I'm more of a "visual learner". lol.

i'll get with ya tomorrow when I dig up my pics Matt... a 2x3 or 4 frame is a must thou!

I didnt take many pics of the construction of the bed, however if you look at this one you can see how I have them layed out for Strength of the bed... I may be able to get under there and take some better pics for ya...

I built it the way I did so that the spare would fit UNDER the bed!

Cool, thanks Snotty. I'd like to be able to fit my spare tire under there as well, plus stuff like sleeping bags, camping gear, and a small toolbox.

Are you going to Lost? if so I could show ya what I did and what route ya should go...

found another pic... hard to tell much from it thou as its of the front of the bed and its already covered in plywood

Thanks again Snotty. I'm not sure about Lost yet, but I'll try and get off work and save up a little extra cash for the trip. The pics are a big help, I have a pretty good idea of where to start. First thing's first, I need to get some more plywood!

yup your gonna need a bunch of plywood! I "think" I used 7 sheets in all in mine!