SIMPLE DIY Pull Out Slat Bed - Stealth Camper Astro Van (Ep. 11)

In this video, I show you exactly how I built this DIY pull out/slide out slat bed on a budget. Of course, this is a very basic design that you modify your own pull out couch to bed.
If you do not know already, I am building this Chevrolet Astro Van into a stealth camper van. The Astro van conversion all started as a barely running van, that I'm slowly getting it back to a reliable running camper van.
Here are the products that we used:
Kreg Pocket hole Jig: amzn.to/3bRwB7i
Kreg 2 Inch Pocket Hole Screws(found them cheaper at Lowes) : amzn.to/30MvJuo
1 1/2 Wood Screws: amzn.to/38LhDxI
Window/Bed lock that should work: amzn.to/3bQEREy
Titebond Wood Glue: amzn.to/38P9mc9
Locking C Clamp by Irwin(I used my old Pittsburg C Clamp. I would get this one so you can use it in other heavy duty projects) : amzn.to/3qRvDfK
Swivel Safety Latch(If you attach 4 to each base leg, the bed will be much more secure, we will be securing the bed to the frame of the car soon) : amzn.to/38NPCWm
90 Degree L Bracket (this should be the proper dimensions): amzn.to/30QqfPu
90 Degree 2inchx2inch bracket(this should be the proper dimensions): amzn.to/3qVV3sx
2 of the 24x72x2" High Density Foam:
1 of the 50x72x2" inch Low Density Foam:
6 x 8ft 1-3s and 2-3s (this will leave you with extra wood incase you mess up): Got them from Lowes
These are the Cuts that need to be made for this bed(I will have an article write up on this soon):
This is based off of a 50inchx72inch pull out bed
2 19.5" of 3x2s (width of the base of the bed, if you want a support bar for the legs, cut two more)
8 11" 3x2s ( these are the legs of the pull out bed)
3 72" 3x2s (2 of them are for the base of the bed and 1 is for the mobile piece)
8 23.5" 3x1s (Pallets for the base/non mobile part of the bed)
9 26.5" 3x1s (Pallets for the mobile part)
This should leave you with one extra 1x3" and 2x3". You can use more pallets if you would like, we don't have an issue with out setup due to the quality of out mattress. If you cheap out on the mattress, I would cut more pallets.
Check out my channel and subscribe!
/ automotivate
Want some merch?
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Have questions or just want to chat?
Here is my IG:
Instagram: / automotivate

[@trucktalkvideos2574]

Run a piece of timber length ways underneath and attach all the ends too it to stop it coming out all the way which then acts as a stop

[@ZombicidalMadMom81]

great job you two! I've been feeling overwhelmed by the thought of having to build a sofa bed in my build; your video has really helped me see the entire process and it feels so much more doable now, thank you!! I also really liked your ideas with the L brackets and lock to keep the bed in place, very clever!

[@AutoMotivate]

At first I was overwhelmed too. Having a plan dusted through a couple times before you tackle a new projects always makes things a bit easier. I am constantly doing new to me projects, and I spend days sometimes weeks thinking about a simple project and making sure I have everything covered. Thank you for the kind words and good luck!

[@alexnrandom7106]

Finally someone that talks and might give info on how to make it... cuz i haven't seen the video yet😅

[@ferrariunicorn]

For cheap you can get (or make) a triangular bed (couch) wedge pillow for your lower backs! I’m so inspired and can’t wait to start my project!!

[@ladyanthropology]

Really crazy how easy this was and how we built this practically in day!

[@AutoMotivate]

In total it was about 4.5 hours! Not bad

[@NancyLyon9]

What is the list of materials? How much of what did you use to build this???

[@AutoMotivate]

The materials is listed in the description and I talk about what I used in the video!

[@AutoMotivate]

It’s probably the easiest way to build this type of pull out bed 🙏

[@asymmetricalrainbow7833]

love this series!I am very amateur at auto repair and have taken on my own astro van conversion and this entire video series has been so helpful. Appreciate you documenting your journey!

[@AutoMotivate]

Yess, I’m glad this could be helpful. My main goal is to motivate 🙌 if you ever get stuck, don’t hesitate to comment here or message me on IG @Automotivate_

[@Stubones999]

if you put another board under the sliding parts, and screw down the sliding slats to the board, it will secure the loose ends of the boards and keep the bed from coming out too far, without your metal clips. Also, put the lock mechanism in the center and it will keep it locked on both sides, not just one end.

[@bobsbarnworkshop]

I would add more slats closer together. But otherwise it looks great! I built one in my Astro too but made it out of three long pieces of 3/4” plywood and it’s hinged so it folds up into a couch. As you said , people do it many different ways! Good luck!

[@Go4Corvette]

Great job guys. I swear this guy looks like a young version of Dr. Loveless from the movie Wild Wild West.

[@cyrusthevirus9878]

Thanks a lot for the ideas turning my impreza into a mini camper requires me to gut the entire back but hey will be way better for the pupper

[@a.wilkins1708]

You missed out on attaching a panel underneath the slats that you pull out. You would have much more stability that way and it would stop the slats when the end position is reached.

[@johnsalles8248]

you do good work kid take care of the van

[@theoriginalmikeg.]

I was able to build one similar to yours for my RV thx to your GREAT VIDEO!

[@AutoMotivate]

Yes! Love hearing that. Hope it turned out great!

[@ReeseJoseph]

Out of all the videos I’ve researched on a sliding slat bed for a van, yours is the only one that gives the exact dimensions for the cuts in the description! THANK YOU! One thing, though: since the bed is 50” wide, that makes the seat cushion in “couch mode” 25” wide! Is it comfortable in use as a couch? Seems like it extends beyond your knee joint and makes you slouch back to compensate.

[@AutoMotivate]

Thank you for the recognition! For an Astro Van, it’s as comfortable as it can get, in my opinion. Me, my friend and my fiancé all sat on the bed talking and I don’t think my friend was uncomfortable at all. The cushion is positioned in a a matter where we don’t really need our back pushed all the way to the back cushion, but still have support.

[@ReeseJoseph]

@@AutoMotivate That's good to know, thanks for getting back! I'm working with a Chevy Express myself... gonna get started on the bed build with this video as a guide. Cheers!

[@AutoMotivate]

That would be awesome! A few things I’d advice you to do to make the bed a bit nicer is: Add wood glue to the mobile piece and the slats. And, I polyurethaned the wood.

[@alvintan4693]

Thanks for the great video, inspired me as an amateur to do one and follow your plans.

[@fedecab7097]

Great video, and much appreciated design! Thanks for sharing 👍

[@AutoMotivate]

Thank you for watching 🙏

[@jasonmartinez1703]

Dam bro the last time I saw your videos was 11 months ago! Long time no see u look so different!

[@AutoMotivate]

I appreciate you coming back man🙏 trying to get more of my own budget friendly projects on the channel!

[@victorvillanueva3340]

Really good job bro thanks for sharing God bless you guys 😘

[@Ls2ELevation]

Super dope.

[@matthewbright2454]

Looks good man, thanks for the inspiration

[@veggiepowered]

I'am Your Newest Subscriber Great Videos. I Have A 1988 Chevy G20 Van That Came With Folding Sofa Bed I Wanta Take It Out And Put A Real Bed In It Made Of Plywood

[@AutoMotivate]

The bonus is the satisfaction of creating it yourself. Appreciate it! if you want to follow the progress without other content flooding your home page: KZbin.com/BuildsUnited

[@shortbus]

Nice Job sir!

[@LindseyandCaleb]

Love it bro! Keep it up!!!

[@AutoMotivate]

Thank you man 🙏

[@darkangelw8472]

Thank you. I'm looking at building a single one, as I can't find a good bed chair to fit my space

[@AutoMotivate]

I wish you luck my friend!

[@juliaallen7149]

We have had this bench kzbin.infoUgkxNuLbiXpLQ-mKH5NlyjrNe88hiCk2N3Cg for five years now and it is still holding up strong with minimal signs of wear! So much so that I decided to get another one to store other stuff. The first one is still beautiful, strong and is easy to clean. It’s been in our living room and we store toys and blankets in it and it really holds quite a bit of stuff. I purchased a similar one two years ago from Aldi and let me tell you that one fell apart in less than six months of use. Get this one if you’re looking. Seriously worth it. Five years already and I can’t believe it looks this good and has held up for the price! Awesome bench, the new one I just got is identical.

[@clarasmith1873]

What thickness of wood did you use for the slats on the bed?

[@michaelpinto6783]

You want gaps in the slats like that from what I understand. Lets moisture evaporate instead of build up in the mattress.

[@AutoMotivate]

Exactly! I wouldn’t make the gaps any larger.

[@damocross4799]

thanks for sharing, I may have missed this but can you share the basic design/layout drawings?

[@yonienriquez539]

3:18 nice

[@maxpower9340]

Can you explain how you joined the lengthways frame to the widthways frame, at the corners? I would have thought that you need a screw upwards from underneath but how do you screw the from the side when there is already a screw in the way? I know you have used pocket holes but still you were lucky the screws didn't hit each other.

[@T4LiebeHeike]

Thanks for sharing very hepfull you Video.Thanks

[@bigfoot8085]

Good build, I would say the mattress was the majority of the $300.

[@peaceformula5830]

Thanks for sharing.

[@olemleoj]

Good

[@jethro9341]

@3:18 FTW!

[@jfick3219]

I like it. Good job! Could you help me? I have a skid plate hanging on mine and I want to get it off because it keeps hitting the ground

[@AutoMotivate]

Thank you man! Are you talking about a skid plate under the van? Protecting the engine?

[@jfick3219]

@@AutoMotivate no the plate under the fuel tank!

[@ellieee718]

hey there! this video was awesome and so appreciated as someone who is not very handy with building stuff. my question is how do you foresee the longevity of the bed? i worry with living full time in my van that it would start to fall apart quickly with constant weight of me and my dog and potention travel buddies. do you have any ideas on how to ensure the strength and stability of this build?

[@AutoMotivate]

I am actually planning in upgrading the bed here pretty soon. At the current state, I think it’s decently durable. However, I would be sure to add glue to the pallets themselves. I am planning to Polyurethane the entire bed. Also, I am going to add a metal bracket on top of the palllets that pull out so they will stay in one position the entire time. (Not sure if that makes sense) But, overall, I think it would last.

[@tonyjackson8640]

Sheesh! Looking good

[@ykvkvkycyyjhbhjbkbkbk8859]

thanks for the video! but which screws go where?

[@samsunkandroit8797]

What if you would build this at home? Is it possible to have it stable if the front is exactly like your design? What if it is a bit higher?

[@AutoMotivate]

It’s definitely possible. Might need to add more bracing from leg to leg connecting from the bottom, but it’s possible.

[@MrMtrent5]

Work good

[@bushpilot7038]

im not looking at the gaps in the planks…..

[@AutoMotivate]

You don’t feel them with the bedding we used!

[@A.I.M.firstarrowshot]

Great looking forward to the vent build. Also, was waiting for someone to cover the frame bed. Build Everyone show their build after it is done. 😅🤣😂 Deflated the purpose of you don’t share the mistakes and build.

[@mariegardiner7034]

Two years later - how is it holding up? Is it sagging in the middle?

[@AutoMotivate]

Zero issues! Next time I would add more slats, and lower it to the wheel well so we can sit up while on the couch. Other then that, it is perfect!

[@mariegardiner7034]

@@AutoMotivate thank you for your reply! i am going to send this to my friend. Hopefully making it this weekend!

[@AutoMotivate]

@@mariegardiner7034 I wish you luck my friend!

[@iammusic1950]

4:21 you're welcome guys.

[@AutoMotivate]

Ah, Thank you my friend!

[@ferrariunicorn]

Tara’s plans 😭♥️

[@AutoMotivate]

Her plans are much easier to read compared to mine 😂

[@auroradawson1105]

Ohhh i like this

[@Petelaosound]

Nice

[@mecanicomecanico5444]

7:04 ufff

[@living4christ]

How is the head gasket holding up you replaced in 2017 in the civic?

[@AutoMotivate]

Hey man! I ended up selling the car a month or so later. The next owner daily drive the car and he didn’t report any issues to me. So, I’m assuming the car drove well. Are you working on your civic?

[@AVENGEDJOE02]

What is the name of the blue tool please?

[@tonyjackson8640]

Pocket hole jig

[@bigflexonthebeat3022]

Terra got yeeks

[@MelissaThompson432]

Your CC feature refers to your SO (Tara?) as "terror." You might want to gently correct that....

[@AutoMotivate]

HAHAHA, thank you for letting me know

[@MelissaThompson432]

@@AutoMotivate ☺ I thought you'd appreciate it.

[@EduardoJimenez-rk8nw]

👍👍

[@odilonrodrigues-bage8459]

Vou Fazer Esse SoFa Cama Pará Meu Tralher Muinto Simples Econômico

[@JTmandas]

#4:20

[@Hindukushsailing]

👍👍🤘🤘

[@thegreatresist5278]

Kreg screws are more painful of a purchase than the jig

[@AutoMotivate]

Those screws are pretty pricy.

[@unmeshchougule5666]

Noice❤

[@A.I.M.firstarrowshot]

Great value!!! How many hours altogether?

[@AutoMotivate]

The total recorded hours was about 4.5 hours. But, I didn’t record the entire process and that doesn’t included getting stuff from Lowe’s and Ace. Thank you!

[@catnip...]

Biggest mistake you did was to have gaps between each slat, then you wouldn't need to buy those brackets! The slats are supposed to be right next to each other. The other problem you will find with such big gaps between each slat, you will end up feeling those slats.

[@AutoMotivate]

Nail on the head man. They aren’t as bad as you might think, but that is what I would change the next time around

[@eduardocruzo8607]

GO GATORS!

[@AutoMotivate]

First game is next weekend!!! Go gators!

[@eduardocruzo8607]

@@AutoMotivate I know. I got tickets. Let's beat Utah.

[@Wetside_sharkin]

I’m just gonna say it. Your wife has an amazing backside🤙🏽

[@rawimpact]

Lol just buy a futon or a kb frame off Amazon

[@colinhurford8187]

Clown

[@AutoMotivate]

Thank you 🙏

[@nightvan4427]

good job. lovelies

[@Deepwater_hydro]

3mins an 18secs. You’re welcome.

[@AutoMotivate]

Thank you

[@Deepwater_hydro]

Anytime. Good job 👏 by the way. She’s a bute🤙 (the van) 😂😅

[@sethwoot]

Can you believe this is the only video on KZbin that put a mattress on the fkn thing..5 hours and im still looking for what type of matrrss people are using that folds and i still haven't found one video..atleast this dude put one on but still no one shows what matress or how it works

[@Kim-hg7db]

Thank you for this video, I love how you ŵere honest about the mistakes you made with the wood lengths it helps me to feel confident make my own bed and my own mistakes. Happy camping

[@maximzubkis9119]

Crazy how you uploaded this right when im on the bed build! haha thank you very much!

[@AutoMotivate]

Yesss! I wish you luck my friend! If you need help or any opinions, let me know!

[@judichristopher4604]

Right!!!! Exactly.

[@chrisvetter1053]

I’m gay and I’m just trying to figure out where the shorts are from? Lol great video either way.

[@AutoMotivate]

Heck yeah! They are Jorts from Express! Pretty stretchy and comfortable. My only gripe is the strings hanging down and touching my leg. I often think its a spider.

[@brandymae9762]

thanks for the video @automotivate we are mimicking this in our Motorhome for the kids, probably going to add a few other features but using your video as our base. Appreciate it! The only question I had was there was a gold-coloured latch of some kind you mentioned you installed so the bed does not come out while driving but I didn’t see this in your description, what is this called?

[@AutoMotivate]

That is awesome! The bed is due for an upgrade. I would suggested using more 1x3s to prevent the kids from feeling the slats. for some reason on our recent camping trip the gaps bothered us. Yes, it is a gold latch which I got form Lowes. I do not remember the name and I did try to look it up on the internet for yall, but I could not find it. Sadly. I recommend going to the big box store and finding something that makes you happy. I wish you luck! If you want to follow more of the project, I created a new channel dedicated to it kzbin.info

[@walkseeworld888]

Great job. I try do my own but I not good about this looking for someone working for me. Thank for sharing 🎉

[@haveminivanwilltravel]

Great vid!

[@25912225]

jajajajaj creo que primero se pone el aislamiento...

[@ElohiSilverEarthVentures]

I just gotta tell ya this...The Astro Chevy Van, is an absolute Tank! It will keep you safe in all of lifes ups and downs, rain,snow, ice, 100+ degrees, beach sand, pot holes, vertical climbs, mine handled anything like a tank seriously. Love her and she will love you back unconditionally. Idk what year yours is but we had our older Astro for dang near 25 yrs, she was still running strong when i regretfully sold her. I sware by those Astro vans, regardless of the door handles and window issues that theyre infamous for, it still was the most dependable, easy low maintenance vehicle ive ever owned and i wish ide not sold mine.

[@KampingKatie]

You two did an excellent job. Thanks for sharing this.

[@AutoMotivate]

Thank you 🙏

[@nightvan4427]

Yes

[@Kingsolowings]

4:21

[@markstein5982]

Slip a couple pieces of masonite or 1/8 or 1/4" plywood inside your cushions. That should solve your issue of the slat spacing...

[@latinoheat210]

Why did you seel the van

[@kpj805]

@3:18 Is that a Hawaiian shirt?

[@BobbyRoss-i5r]

If anyone sees this I genuinely wonder why should a pocket jig be used rather than just pre drilling holes and putting the screw in ?

[@ginafoote6688]

Like your bed because most others are over complicated. Would like to see the locking brackets though because we want the option to pull the lot out quickly if we need the van to carry materials.

[@dianaodin4110]

Where did you source your foam mattress toppers? I'm trying to figure out where to buy foam but typical mattress toppers are very expensive.

[@jonathanwickett7028]

Only fans ?

[@jo-annewilkinson5663]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@chiara8452]

What kind of wood did you use? what thickness? Thanks

[@allanblack8635]

3:18 I learned about the male gaze in film class.

[@JF-rz1ot]

Far too laborious and complicated. Just buy a futon frame and convert that! Much easier.

[@AutoMotivate]

You can’t build that to size and it’s not nearly as comfortable. Nor do you have as much space underneath the bed.

[@KJ-dc3wk]

Incorrect, I did just that. Built from adapted futon 2 years ago.

[@AutoMotivate]

@@KJ-dc3wk sure, but once again, you can’t simply trim to futon to size. From my experience 95% of futons are very uncomfortable. This “complicated” build really isn’t complicated at all. We have our own opinions

[@laurenr8935]

This is so helpful! I love it! I think I will use this in my van build. Thank you for sharing!!

[@ricksmith7631]

that bed turned out perfect, you got space and comfort. the gaps will allow the bed to breathe and last long. i did one once with a solid platform and i noticed that there was some moistures underneath that led to mold. i never let the mattress breathe and mold was the end result. im doing an econoline convert into a mini camper and i spend alot of nights watching videos to get ideas. im gonna have to check out some of your other videos. just keep the good stuff coming.

[@AutoMotivate]

It did turn out pretty great! Mold was definitely something I was thinking about when I was making the bed. Just a heads up, I would make the spaces probably half the size to make it a bit more comfortable! Other than that, It’s just about perfect! Wish you luck on your build!

[@VBG_the1]

Is there a way I can buy one for my room?

[@LorriNandrea]

Very helpful, thank you!

[@tabby7361]

Fabulous help. Thank you!

[@nomorebsforme]

THATS what masks are for!

[@hardyboy793]

Machine bahut dhanshu lage manne

[@A.I.M.firstarrowshot]

Have you put the vent on the van? Do you believe I can put a lift on an Astro?? Looking ata 4 inch’ lift

[@AutoMotivate]

I’ll be installing a roof vent in the near future, same with a lift. I think a 4’ lift would be awesome and very possible. You can do a 1’ frame lift, then a 2-3’ suspension lift. I’m just going to start with the frame lift as it seems somewhat easy.

[@ktk2094]

Good job! Happy camping!

[@debbies6192]

Thank you.

[@gabrieleladwig2590]

Bett camper