Back Rest sags when goucho converted to bed. Thoughts?

deminimis · 05-05-2008, 11:36 AM

I have the four-place goucho (runs along the side of the van). When the back rest is moved into the bed position, the back rest sags when there is weight on it. Since its such a long span, its not suprising. Other than placing some sort of box underneath the back rest to support it, has anyone come up with a better solution? Was thinking about a pair of short swing-down legs if they wouldn't interfer with the back rest when it is in the back rest position. Since I can't seem to get the kids to give up their realestate (the PH bed), looks like I'm destined to sleep on the lower bed (with the wife). She'll make me sleep on the sagging part and I suspect I'll roll off. Any ideas?

dave_in_delaware · 05-05-2008, 07:54 PM

Wow. I'm surprised this "part" isn't self-supporting in some way. I'm planning on the full-length (78"?) Gaucho in my SMB. I would have assumed that this sagging wouldn't be an issue at all.

Has it always sagged from day-1, or has it gotten progressively worse from use?

Jayson · 05-05-2008, 08:31 PM

You do have two swing out legs at each end right? Mine doesnt seem to sag when i put the legs down

John Kalmbach · 05-05-2008, 10:16 PM

Jayson is right that you should have two swing-down legs, one at each end of the seat back. They should have been installed as original equipment, contact SMB to have them send you a pair. You may need to "trim" them to length, but they are very easy to install. (Make sure you don't try to install the sheetmetal attachment screws where the weld is on the frame corner.)

Thanks,
John K.

deminimis · 05-06-2008, 08:56 AM

Thanks guys. Yep, I don't have the legs and no indication any where ever installed. That explains it.

deminimis · 05-07-2008, 09:07 AM

Just wanted to thank you guys again. Spoke with SMB and they are sending me the legs (no charge).

dave_in_delaware · 05-07-2008, 09:25 AM

That's good news. Gotta love great customer service, and a company that stands behind their product.

deminimis · 05-11-2008, 08:23 PM

Darn, they sent me the gaucho seat bottom supports, not the swing down legs for the back rest. I'll give them call in the morning to get the right ones.

deminimis · 06-16-2008, 10:16 AM

Noticed I never wrapped up this thread. Got the proper swing down legs from SMB. Easy install. Finally got to put them to use this past weekend. They work perfectly. Bed is fully supported and damn comfy too.