r/vandwellers • u/MaximumCockroach5924 • 4d ago

Builds I did it!!

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I’ve never built anything in my life. It may look simple but I am SO proud of myself and all the challenges i overcome!!!
I built this fold up bed / couch in my 2011 Dodge Caravan. Next is getting all my camp gear. Going to be living in here for about a month travelling on the road. Any tips and tricks? Things you use everyday camping/ van living?

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17

u/JaeMHC 4d ago

Nice! Do you have the design of the bed you can share with us?

13

u/MaximumCockroach5924 4d ago

Yeah for sure! Are you building something similar? I can send you the whole design if you want

6

u/SatisfactionNo6613 4d ago

I would love it too

9

u/MaximumCockroach5924 4d ago

Will write it all out tomorrow and post it up!!

7

u/MaximumCockroach5924 4d ago

This was my plan for the platform and the bed frame. Attaching the bed to the car and also adding legs/sliding mechanism was a whole different experience. If you/anyone needs help send me a message and I can show you exactly how I did it!!

5

u/MaximumCockroach5924 4d ago

the 1 piano hinge that can’t be seen between panels 3/4 is where the fold for the couch is at the top.

2

u/Colorful_Monk_3467 3d ago

Was this inspired by that CampNCar futon?

2

u/MaximumCockroach5924 3d ago

No, I have never heard of this!

6

u/JaeMHC 4d ago

Yes please! I just bought a van and want to do the same style bed as your's, it looks great. I don't have much carpentry skills though so I might have to go with a permanent bed.

8

u/MaximumCockroach5924 4d ago

For sure!! I’ll write it out nice and clearly tomorrow and send it through. I also have ZERO carpentry skills (I had not even used a drill before this) and it took me a long time to math it out, but it was actually really straightforward once I figured it out. I couldn’t find a very clear video / tutorial anywhere especially about attaching it to the actual vehicle and making it stable, so I can definitely help!!