Weight limit for penthouse bed

[dsdaviser]

We want to sleep 2 up above, the platform on the rails.
But we are worried about weight limit. We need 350 lbs or so.
RB 50 sort of, extended van.

I have my doubts that the original will do that, as it is already bowing a little, this 2013 SMB.

Suggestions?
Thicker plywood?
Metal slats?

Thanks David in Roanoke VA

[1der]

How many platform units make up the bed? Sizes (length) ? they are about 43" wide., right? These are fully upholstered with the bed cushion encapsulated in the fabric?

[Surf Moia]

Did anyone answer this? I have the same question.
I was thinking about add 2 pieces of angle iron to reinforce. Any thoughts?

[dsdaviser]

One platform, yes 43", with padding.

[doublevan2]

Don't mean to hijack this thread - but subject is regarding a PH top -- what is the weight limit/carrying load of the PH on a 2002 E350 - with motorized/linear actuator function ? I wouldn't want to screw up the actuator with too heavy a load. Thanks for any replies !

[dsdaviser]

All thoughts welcome.
The bed or plywood would only hang when raising, and I already have extra flat stuff up there.
If I went with thicker plywood, I would leave off the padding, as we use an air mattress anyway.
Still thinking slats.

[SMB123]

To quote Sportsmobile: "Normally we say around 400 hundred pounds"

That said - I'd consider age/drying out to be reducing factor. I get up there and I'm a sasquatch but for two people around 350 - it would be a bit of a white knuckle. Not to mention possible "dynamic" activities. You know what I'm talking about.

I think they use 3/4 ply for their penthouse beds.

Some slats might distribute the weight and add a bit of redundancy.

[daveb]

My bed is the two piece model. I'm sure it depends on the model of your van and package. Mine is the 2 piece for a Ford extended van (EB-50). IIRC they make several different beds (For example I've seen a 3 piece model). With my 2-piece, I'd think the longer portion of the bed is most prone to weight issues and it has handled 300-350 over the years.

[Twoxentrix]

Originally Posted by doublevan2

Don't mean to hijack this thread - but subject is regarding a PH top -- what is the weight limit/carrying load of the PH on a 2002 E350 - with motorized/linear actuator function ? I wouldn't want to screw up the actuator with too heavy a load. Thanks for any replies !

Russ, this has come up several times in the past - I was told by Peter at SMW the electric penthouse tops would handle 200lbs, then a year or so later I found a sticker in my binder which stated the" recommended weight limit not to exceed 150lb".
I currently have about 150lbs on it now for the last 7 years with no issue...but I do lube all of it yearly (as a precautionary measure to keep it running smoothly).

As far as the Bed, We've had 350+ on our two=piece upper bed numerous occasions with no problem, But I (as another member mentioned) considered adding a piece of 3/4" aluminum angle to trim the 4 outer edges of my platform...just never adopted the project for fear of tearing up the fabric which covers the channel...which would then instigate 'another project'.

[doublevan2]

Thanks Felix and all others replying -