Bed lift for aluminum frame

[krog6420]

My storage under the bed has an aluminum frame and cheap particle board sides which are coming apart. Any advise on how to install gas struts to hold the bed up?

[R.Wold]

I’d take it apart and use the particle board pieces for patterns and rebuild it in 3/4 plywood, CCX at least reinforcing the corners with alum angle on the inside, especially if you use mitre joints. Once you do that you’ll have no problem adding attachment points for struts. And you’ll never have to touch it again. CCX has a good enough side to sand and stain, but if it’s going to be visible I’d get better looking material.

[LeisurePursuits]

If the particle board is finished on the outside and you don't want to lose that, then perhaps line the inside with some 3/8 plywood. Use construction adhesive. Install some 1" x 4" 12 inch long boards to the underside of the mattress plywood. Install a couple struts between the new plywood and boards.