Community Forums

dlaughlin · 04-21-2015, 10:31 AM

We're a few days into ownership of our new-to-us 1998 American Tradition 40TVS.

It has this WONDERFULLY large closet (about 50" long) in the bathroom that I am thinking of converting to double bunks with drawer storage under the bottom bunk. Here's the closet: http://flic.kr/p/rXwtW1

The kids are 3 and 1 so the bottom would start as a crib and the top would be a toddler bed.

First, has anyone converted a closet (or any other Class A space) to bunks? Would you recommend building an exoskeleton in the closet for the bunks, or securing the bunks to the exterior wall and walls of the closet?

While perusing the interwebs, this is the best I have seen...

I'd like to think I could do something a bit better!

BFlinn181 · 04-22-2015, 08:57 AM

I'd think for future resale a removable unit would be easier to sell. A new owner could use the bunks as is or easily remove and utilize as a closet.

Enjoy your adventures with your RV!

dlaughlin · 04-22-2015, 09:24 AM

This is true, however whatever I do, I will match the stain to the current cabinetry to make it look as factory as possible.

1998 American Tradition 40TVS
Spartan IC Chassis with IFS
Cummins ISC 8.3L 300HP

**JohnRR** · 04-22-2015, 09:25 AM

I'd have to think long and hard before making the change permanent, as mentioned think "resale".

BFlinn181 · 04-22-2015, 09:50 AM

The length of the bunks, at 4' 2" also limits the market for resale, and also limits the time it will work for you. Kids grow quickly, if a few years they may not be comfortable in such a short bunk. You could always keep the closet and pull out the sofa bed.

dlaughlin · 04-23-2015, 06:18 AM

I guesstimate that I'll get 5 or 6 years out of the bunks. The goal is to give the kids a permanent space of their own so DW and I can enjoy the front of the coach after their bedtime, something we can't do if the pullout couch is used as a bed. Plus, we can save the pullout for adult guests like grandparents.

1998 American Tradition 40TVS
Spartan IC Chassis with IFS
Cummins ISC 8.3L 300HP

kdzgon · 04-23-2015, 05:44 PM

I think if you make the ladders and rails removable you don't have to worry much about resale. Remove those and the mattresses, throw on a couple of doors (if really necessary) and you are back to storage. Five or six years is a LOT of evening peace and quiet time in the meanwhile! Plus, the coach will officially be "vintage" 5-6 years from now...how much more resale value will you really lose?

I vote for the peaceful nights!