Im currently converting a van to a camper and I am trying to find out details regards pop top roof beds. I cant find any diagrams for a diy version and want to know measurements of peoples beds so i can make my own. Also what size struts/power they are and the length of the supports too. If anyone has a diagram or can provide measurements of theirs I would be grateful. What thickness ply have people got?
Pop top bed measurements/strut details
- Thread starter Leeabr101
- Start date
Hi I'm currently in the same boat. Just had my roof done and looking at making a bi-fold bed. Not 100% sure what material to use. The guy who did the roof uses 18mm OSB, this may be light weight but in my opinion has a tendency crack. Regarding measurements there bespoke to your roofs bed channels and where your wanting to hinge it from.
This is what I used with 15mm plywood:
Struts: 6mm rod 260mm stroke gas strut - GS6-15-260-300
Strut end: B8 - Metal 10mm Ball Socket 22mm long with a M6 thread
Brackets: K9 - 10mm Ball Stud Right Angle Bracket
For the fixed strut at the front I used a mk4 golf tailgate strut. I don't have a measurement for this strut.
I don't have the measurements from mine but here are some pics that someone was kind enough to share with me which helped.
Struts: 6mm rod 260mm stroke gas strut - GS6-15-260-300
Strut end: B8 - Metal 10mm Ball Socket 22mm long with a M6 thread
Brackets: K9 - 10mm Ball Stud Right Angle Bracket
For the fixed strut at the front I used a mk4 golf tailgate strut. I don't have a measurement for this strut.
I don't have the measurements from mine but here are some pics that someone was kind enough to share with me which helped.
Hi Rob,
I have the same dilemma! My thoughts are to use a softer elastic which will stand the extra tension when the bed is actuated. Alternatively you could use a bungee which is put around the canvas and left on the outside permanently.
not sure bit of elastic round side will work as soon as you drop roof a bit you will lose tension on elastic.
my van doesnt turn up till Sept so if you do yours prior i would be keen to know how it went
There is a company who cuts and binds the elastic to the correct tension required OR do it your self (trial and error). From pictures it does look as though the canvas is under a fair bit of tension when the roof is open, obviously this is needed for when shutting as to keep it under tension. My only concern with this method is how it will interact with the scenic tent opening.
