Bed Platform in 195RB is weak - Mod thread

[Jay2504]

Thanks MrKABC,for taking the time to post more pictures and answer my questions. I am sure that the 3/8” plywood that you put around the frame really tied all that together and made it much stronger. I have done other mods in the last couple of days, but in the next few days, I’m going to finish insulating around the bed and will brace up the platform that the mattress sits on. Jay

[RayO44]

Hey MrKABC
What are the Lift Support Struts you are using. I bought a pair but they seemed to long and over powered for the bed.
Thanks

[MrKABC]

Originally Posted by RayO44

Hey MrKABC
What are the Lift Support Struts you are using. I bought a pair but they seemed to long and over powered for the bed.
Thanks

Hello Ray:

Sorry about the delay in replying! I haven't been here as often as I'd like.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...e?ie=UTF8&th=1

This is the exact type I went with. Description is:
C1608054 20" Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100 Lb Per Shock C16-08054 for Camper Shell RV Bed Tonneau Cover Storage Box Basement Door Floor Hatch Window Lift Struts (Applicable Lid Weight 85-110LBs)

I used these brackets and decking screws to secure them:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

10MM Ball Stud Bracket for Gas Spring/Prop/Strut (2 Pack)
Brand: Kencon Specialty Products

And last but not least these brackets and decking screws for the platform:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

JR Products BR-1020 10mm Flat Gas Spring Mounting Bracket

I purchased and installed these parts December 2019 and as of today the gas struts are still going strong, with no complications on lifting the platform. It was a worthy mod! Good luck and share your pix when you complete your installation.

[RayO44]

Originally Posted by MrKABC

Hello Ray:

Sorry about the delay in replying! I haven't been here as often as I'd like.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...e?ie=UTF8&th=1

This is the exact type I went with. Description is:
C1608054 20" Gas Prop Spring Strut 20 inch 100 Lb Per Shock C16-08054 for Camper Shell RV Bed Tonneau Cover Storage Box Basement Door Floor Hatch Window Lift Struts (Applicable Lid Weight 85-110LBs)

I used these brackets and decking screws to secure them:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

10MM Ball Stud Bracket for Gas Spring/Prop/Strut (2 Pack)
Brand: Kencon Specialty Products

And last but not least these brackets and decking screws for the platform:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

JR Products BR-1020 10mm Flat Gas Spring Mounting Bracket

I purchased and installed these parts December 2019 and as of today the gas struts are still going strong, with no complications on lifting the platform. It was a worthy mod! Good luck and share your pix when you complete your installation.

Thanks for this.

[MrKABC]

Took some current pix for you! Here's the lift supports as of yesterday.

A couple of notes:

• the gas lift supports are strong
• reinforce the platform with plywood or you'll damage the cheap wood
• reinforce your platform!

Good luck!

[PoohbearT]

@MrKABC I was wondering why you used pool table felt on the plywood? To protect the mattress? I should have bought a RV Queen, but I bought a regular one, it will make it more difficult to get around the mattress, but my partner is tall and his feet were hanging off the mattress.
Thank you!

[MrKABC]

Originally Posted by PoohbearT

@MrKABC I was wondering why you used pool table felt on the plywood? To protect the mattress? I should have bought a RV Queen, but I bought a regular one, it will make it more difficult to get around the mattress, but my partner is tall and his feet were hanging off the mattress.
Thank you!

@PoohbearT the felt was just because the plywood was splintered and I wanted to not tear the mattress. NO big deal, lol.

[RogerR]

We covered our plywood with a felt material. Just pulled it over the edge and stapled it from below. The cover on the Zinus is very soft and the rough plywood might damage it. In addition, tucking sheets in with bare fingers is a great way to discover how far a splinter can go under a fingernail.

[PoohbearT]

OUCH, I don't find my plywood that bad, maybe made differently in Canada LOL