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Topic: 2001 26.5 converting the entertainment center to a bed (Read 385 times) previous topic - next topic
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2001 26.5 converting the entertainment center to a bed
In negotiations with a LD rear bath.  However I don’t want to have to convert the couch every day to a bed and I will be living in it for several months. Have seen this same model with a bed above the cab. Have heard you shouldn’t convert due to weight bearing.  But I’m confused because the shell of the cab is made so strongly and it’s identical except for the windows. I’ve seen people mention they have done this.  So love to hear what you’ve personally done/experienced with this conversion.  TIA in advance!
Re: 2001 26.5 converting the entertainment center to a bed
Reply #1 –
Quote from: Blyss  - 
But I’m confused because the shell of the cab is made so strongly and it’s identical except for the windows.

Ah, but there's the rub.  They are not made identically.  The entertainment center is part of the support system, and with a bed, there is a differently constructed internal support system. 

Linda
Linda B
Green 2021 RB
2022 Ford Maverick toad
Re: 2001 26.5 converting the entertainment center to a bed
Reply #2 –
Many have wanted to do this conversion but few, if any have. I do not remember anyone doing reporting doing so  here.
The reason? The entaintinment center is buit differently than the bunk. Once the cabinets are removed the walls behind will be unfinished and damaged after the cabinet is removed..
The cabinet will not come come out in one piece, instead, it will end up being dozens of pieces of kindling, it will not be reusable if you decide to switch it back. The cross supports are not there and will need to be designed.
I’m not saying it can’t be done, but if done, it needs to be done in a thoughtful manner by a skill craftsperson.

It is best to find a LD built with the bunk and not risk damaging the overhead area.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: 2001 26.5 converting the entertainment center to a bed
Reply #3 –
We have that model with the entertainment center.  We pull the couches out to daybed size and leave them that way.  There is about 16” between the beds to walk through. If traveling solo, perhaps one couch can be pulled out all the way and the other left as a couch and there will still be room to walk through (never tried that).
2003 RB “Lulu Boo Berry” The Blue Ghost
2008 Jeep Liberty “Mr. Toad”
Re: 2001 26.5 converting the entertainment center to a bed
Reply #4 –
Quote from: Linda C  - 
If traveling solo, perhaps one couch can be pulled out all the way and the other left as a couch and there will still be room to walk through (never tried that).

That's my setup and it works well for me.
My wheels:
2003 MB
2012 Jeep Liberty
Re: 2001 26.5 converting the entertainment center to a bed
Reply #5 –
One of the rear couches pulled out with a good mattress is my permanent bed and it's wonderful.  I still have the other couch for stretching out to read, watch films and write, or for a guest.  I would never want to climb up to a loft bed and down at nighttime, I'm too old for that anyway.  But the so-called entertainment center is not for entertainment in my case.  It's a huge pantry that holds almost as much as the cabinets in a sticks-n-bricks house.  As a lifelong cook and baker I LOVE it.  The doors are solid and show off lovely stained glass panels.  It definitely works for me!  It's been my half-year home for almost ten years and I know I'm blessed to have it.
Kristin in Alaska
1997 MB