Power Reclining Bed modification

[Ian G.]

Camping is spending lots of time outside, exploring, hiking, cooking, relaxing so I know the first question is “Why would you want a reclining bed?” . There are times when we have hook-ups and in the evening we enjoy a little TV later in the evening, I am also a huge F1 fan and on the rare occasion I am able to watch the race.

We all know how awkward and uncomfortable propping a pillow up against the wall is, and those blind cord anchors can be a real pain in the back. Finally I must confess the real reason is the “Cool Factor”, being able to push a button while laying in bed and get lifted into a perfect TV viwing position, this mod is just so cool.

I am writing up full details on how I did this mod which I will post as soon, but to show what it does here is a short video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5hy1GdoTOo

[Avey]

Wow! That's cool

[BarbinBC]

Love this idea, but would only work for me if I'm plugged in somewhere.

Anyone come up with this type of modification with those hydraulic type arms used on hatchback cars? No power needed and I think I would like the back to come up a bit more from what I saw in the video.

As a "fewer moving parts" type person, and avoiding things that have a power draw when at all possible, I like the concept, but there must be another way.

Anyone?

[Ian G.]

Originally Posted by BarbinBC

Love this idea, but would only work for me if I'm plugged in somewhere.

Anyone come up with this type of modification with those hydraulic type arms used on hatchback cars? No power needed and I think I would like the back to come up a bit more from what I saw in the video.

As a "fewer moving parts" type person, and avoiding things that have a power draw when at all possible, I like the concept, but there must be another way.

Anyone?

Since we usually only watch TV if there is shore power and the use of the recline mechanism is discretionary I am not worried about power consumption on this item.

You could use the same principle but instead of the 12V actuators you could use a system similar to patio lounge chairs where an arm slots into a notch.

[Gordon in Idaho]

Not trying to evoke sympathy here, but I'm afraid a motorized bed would remind me too much of the times when I've HAD to use those. I think extra pillows is the answer for me.

But I admire the innovation. If anyone can pull that off, you can, Ian. Thanks for all your ideas.


Gordon

[Roy in TO]

Silly me, when I first looked at the picture I imagined you were just trying to get your partner to snuggle with you.

[Ian G.]

Originally Posted by Roy in TO

Silly me, when I first looked at the picture I imagined you were just trying to get your partner to snuggle with you.

I never thought of that but I like the way you think

[Jay H]

Originally Posted by Roy in TO

Silly me, when I first looked at the picture I imagined you were just trying to get your partner to snuggle with you.

I am pretty sure that if that is what I used this mod for, I would get the remote taken away!
That is a pretty cool setup Ian, looks awful comfy too.
Jay


Sent from my iPod touch using Fiberglass RV

[k corbin]

I have to use a reclined position to take the stress off of my back as I have degenerative spine issues. So the ability to recline in my trailer is totally understandable to me.

I have a single size Ikea slatted, all wood, bed frame with a motorized lift. Got it in their scratch and dent area for $100.00. I have used it everyday for 4 years and it is still going strong. It doubles as my office chair and TV recliner. I am considering modifying it for use in my Campster and Sunrader. I am not sure what voltage the DC motor runs on, I have never closely looked at the labels, it does have a brick power supply converting the power for use on 120 AC. Unfortunately they are no longer sold in the USA.

[Jim Bennett]

Great job on that mod, Ian. I was looking forward to seeing it done after you told me about it at the Escape Rally. Looking forward to seeing the workings.

Just one question though. Why raise your feet up, instead of your head?

[Ian G.]

For anyone interested here is a link to the instructions Reclining Bed Modification in our Escape 19


Picture of the major components

[Johnny M]

Another great Ian G. creation, love it!