Community Forums

WinstonWolf · 08-19-2020, 11:57 PM

Our 2001 does not have gas pressurized lift supports to assist in raising the bed.

I'd like to ad them, seems like a common mod, but a quick search didn't net me any results.

Anyone done this ? I see a seller on eBay selling 130# lift supports which sounds about right.

Alpine36 · 08-20-2020, 08:47 AM

The bad thing about the lift struts is they won't support the bed platform with the mattress in place. Nor will the little whimpy steel prop rods. Instead of wrestling with the mattress on and off every time I carry two 3'6" 2x2's in the under bed storage compartment. Simply slide the mattress forward a bit, I lift, wife installs them under the bed platform. Seems to be the best procedure come maintenance time.

Ljwt330 · 08-20-2020, 09:04 AM

I wonder if the design was changed in later models. Under my mattress are small hatch covers, near the foot of the mattress. The covers have a finger hole and are easily removed to reveal storage compartments. Inside each is a latch that releases the platform which would expose the engine cover, I believe, though I have never opened it to check.

Does this sound like what is under your mattress? I got the feeling that the entire platform was not intended to be raised on a regular basis like on my previous MHs, both of which had lifts and the entire mattress platform was raised.

WinstonWolf · 08-20-2020, 08:47 PM

I hear ya Alpine, but anything is possible with the right strut. .....i think.

RVPioneer · 08-20-2020, 09:14 PM

Here’s a drawing, I believe from EngineerMike.

Somewhere in the depths of this forum is a thread that discusses the modification and may include photos and step by step instructions.

hawkeye1995 · 08-20-2020, 10:50 PM

My MH has two pistons, like the one used on a SUV hatchback. They hold the bed and mattress just fine. I'm not sure what the weigh limit. This might be a good spot to look. https://www.liftsupportsdepot.com/ You could call them and ask about weight factor. I'm sure they can steer you in the right direction. Also, Amazon carries several different type of piston lifts. Good luck.

WinstonWolf · 08-20-2020, 11:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RVPioneer

Here’s a drawing, I believe from EngineerMike.

Somewhere in the depths of this forum is a thread that discusses the modification and may include photos and step by step instructions.

That's great. Thank you. Now i just need to figure out how to read it.

saddlesore · 08-20-2020, 11:47 PM

I replaced the gas struts with 18" electric actuators. then wired up an on/off/on toggle to raise and lower bed over the engine.

WinstonWolf · 08-21-2020, 12:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by saddlesore

I replaced the gas struts with 18" electric actuators. then wired up an on/off/on toggle to raise and lower bed over the engine.

Oh now THAT is awesome ! Now lets talk about that insulation....

I did find a post with this link which is pretty helpful.

https://www.hatchlift.com/index.php?..._=bedlift-kits

saddlesore · 08-21-2020, 10:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WinstonWolf

Oh now THAT is awesome ! Now lets talk about that insulation....

I did find a post with this link which is pretty helpful.

https://www.hatchlift.com/index.php?..._=bedlift-kits

Keep in mind that the piano hinge is probably just a 1" width..(ours was)the actuators will pull the little screws used out..(changed the angle of lift).
I went to a 3" hinge altho a 2 inch may have been sufficient me thinks.
You don't like the factory insulation style in the engine room?

WinstonWolf · 08-21-2020, 11:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by saddlesore

Keep in mind that the piano hinge is probably just a 1" width..(ours was)the actuators will pull the little screws used out..(changed the angle of lift).
I went to a 3" hinge altho a 2 inch may have been sufficient me thinks.
The insulation in the engine bay is factory standard for our coach, Will address when needed.

Good tip on the hinge and puny screws. One could probably head that off by going with thru bolts and maybe a backing plate on the other side. I don't recall seeing insulation on my inspection,.... we pick her up tomorrow. I'll be a lot smarter, poorer, and even more confused then.

saddlesore · 08-21-2020, 11:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WinstonWolf

Good tip on the hinge and puny screws. One could probably head that off by going with thru bolts and maybe a backing plate on the other side. I don't recall seeing insulation on my inspection,.... we pick her up tomorrow. I'll be a lot smarter, poorer, and even more confused then.

Um...Please note that our coach is not an Alpine. All mfg's do things differently, depending on their price point if they have one.