When building a sliding frame for a bed/couch combo, the dimensions, spacing, and math of building is extra critical. To align each slat along the 75″ long frame, Mark built this DIY spacer.
Aligning to the spacer means equal spacing between slats, and a 90 degree angle. We still spot-checked the angle with a square.
Mark built it out of scrap lumber. The spacer width was based on the math of 75″ long (standard cot length) divided by the number of slats.
Other building tips from for the frame:
- The sliding ends of each 2×3 are chamfered to allow for an easier up on the solid boards.
- Vinyl slips about 1×2″ are under the boards stationary ends of the sliding boards.
- Recapping…chamfered end on sliding boards on the end that moves out, vinyl slips on the stationary end of the board.
- Every other board slides.
- For us, the frame leg on the passenger side of the van lands in the slider steps. Therefore, that leg is a removable, screw-in table leg. It will be out when in couch mode. It will be in during bed mode.
Christiana Learns 