Rock and Roll Beds: Do They Fit All Vans?

Embarking on a campervan conversion journey is an exciting prospect, transforming your commercial vehicle into a versatile space for travel and relaxation. A cornerstone of many such conversions is the 'rock and roll' bed – a clever, convertible seating solution that transforms from a comfortable bench seat into a flat sleeping area. However, a common question that arises for prospective converters is: do rock and roll beds fit all commercial vehicles? The simple answer is no, they don't. The diverse range of commercial vehicle makes and models, each with unique internal dimensions, means that a 'one size fits all' approach is simply not feasible. Factors such as internal height, width restrictions, and the intrusion of wheel arches play a crucial role in determining bed compatibility.

Here at Streamline, we understand these challenges implicitly. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of different sized rock and roll beds, meticulously designed to accommodate the vast majority of commercial vehicles available on the market. Our aim is to provide tailored solutions, ensuring that you can find the perfect bed to maximise both comfort and practicality within your chosen van. Let's delve into the specifics of why precise measurements matter and explore the various bed options available to help you make an informed decision for your conversion project.

Understanding the Anatomy of a Rock and Roll Bed

Before diving into specific sizes, it's beneficial to understand the key measurements that define a rock and roll bed's compatibility with a commercial vehicle. These dimensions are critical, as they dictate not only whether the bed will physically fit but also how comfortably and safely it will integrate into your van's interior. The three primary measurements to consider are:

• Width of Bed: This is perhaps the most obvious measurement, referring to the overall width of the bed frame. It needs to fit between your van's interior panels, often impacted by side linings or insulation.
• Seat Height from Floor to Top of Seat Cushion: This measurement is vital for ensuring comfortable seating when the bed is in its upright position. It also impacts headroom when sitting and the overall height of the sleeping platform.
• Wheel Arch Clearance: Often overlooked, this is a critical dimension. It refers to the maximum height of the bed frame from the floor that allows it to clear the vehicle's wheel arches. Wheel arches protrude into the cargo area, and if the bed frame is too low or too wide at the base, it simply won't fit over them.

Considering these measurements in conjunction with your specific vehicle's interior dimensions is paramount for a successful and safe installation.

The Importance of M1 Testing

Many of our rock and roll beds, particularly the Easi-lift models, are M1 Tested. But what exactly does M1 testing mean, and why is it so important for your campervan conversion? M1 is a European safety standard for vehicle seating, specifically for seats that are intended to carry passengers on public roads. An M1 crash test involves rigorously testing the seat and its mounting system to ensure it can withstand the forces of a collision. This includes testing for seat belt anchorage points and the structural integrity of the bed frame itself.

Choosing an M1 Tested rock and roll bed offers several significant benefits:

• Safety: The primary reason for M1 testing is passenger safety. It provides assurance that, in the event of an accident, the bed will remain securely anchored and protect its occupants.
• Legality & Insurance: In many regions, particularly across the UK and Europe, having M1 tested seating is a legal requirement if you plan to carry passengers in the rear of your converted vehicle while it's in motion. Furthermore, insurance companies often require proof of M1 testing for cover, especially if you're modifying your vehicle's seating capacity.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your bed meets stringent safety standards offers invaluable peace of mind for you and your passengers.

Always prioritise M1 tested beds if you intend to use them for passenger transport.

Streamline's Tailored Rock and Roll Bed Solutions

At Streamline, we've meticulously designed our rock and roll beds to cater to a broad spectrum of commercial vehicles. Below, we detail the specifications and compatible vehicles for each of our popular bed ranges, helping you identify the ideal fit for your conversion project.

The 3/4 Width Easi-Lift and M1 Tested Bed (42″)

This bed is a popular choice for those seeking a balance between sleeping space and retaining some cargo area within their van. Its 3/4 width design means it doesn't take up the entire width of the vehicle, leaving room for side cabinets, storage, or a walkway.

Compatible Vehicle Types:

• VW T4 (including Caravelle model)
• VW T5 & T6 (including Kombi & Shuttle models)
• Ford Transit & Transit Custom
• Vauxhall Vivaro (upto 2019 only)
• Renault Trafic
• Nissan Primastar
• Mercedes Sprinter
• VW Crafter
• VW LT
• Fiat Ducato
• Citroen Dispatch (up to 2016 model)
• Citroen Relay
• Peugeot Expert
• Peugeot Boxer
• Renault Master
• Fiat Scudo
• Vauxhall Movano
• Iveco Daily

This bed's generous wheel arch clearance makes it suitable for a wide array of larger vans and panel vans where wheel arch intrusion is a common design feature. The 'Easi-lift' mechanism ensures smooth and effortless conversion between seating and sleeping configurations, enhancing user convenience.

The Full Width Easi-Lift and M1 Tested Bed (57″)

For those who prioritise maximum sleeping width and comfort, the full width Easi-lift bed is an excellent option. It spans almost the entire interior width of the van, creating a spacious double bed when extended. This is ideal for conversions where the bed is the primary feature and other amenities are built around it.

Compatible Vehicle Types:

• VW T4 (excluding Caravelle model)
• VW T5 & T6 (excluding Kombi & Shuttle models)
• Ford Transit & Transit Custom
• Vauxhall Vivaro
• Renault Trafic
• Nissan Primastar
• Mercedes Sprinter
• VW Crafter
• VW LT
• Fiat Ducato
• Citroen Dispatch (up to 2016 model)
• Citroen Relay
• Peugeot Expert
• Peugeot Boxer
• Renault Master
• Fiat Scudo
• Vauxhall Movano
• Iveco Daily

It's important to note the exclusion of certain VW models (Caravelle, Kombi, Shuttle) for this full-width bed. These variants often have existing interior trim, seating, or window configurations that may impede the installation of a full-width bed without significant modification. Always measure your specific vehicle's interior carefully, especially if it's a passenger-oriented version of a commercial van.

The Versatile 51″ Wide Easi-Lift Bed

Offering a middle ground between the 3/4 and full-width options, the 51″ wide Easi-Lift bed provides ample sleeping space while potentially allowing for slightly more side storage than a full-width bed, depending on your vehicle's specific interior dimensions. This makes it a highly versatile choice for a variety of conversion layouts.

Compatible Vehicle Types:

• VW T4 (including Caravelle model)
• VW T5 & T6 (including Kombi & Shuttle models)
• Ford Transit & Transit Custom
• Vauxhall Vivaro
• Renault Trafic
• Nissan Primastar
• Mercedes Sprinter
• VW Crafter
• VW LT
• Fiat Ducato
• Citroen Dispatch (up to 2016 model)
• Citroen Relay
• Peugeot Expert
• Peugeot Boxer
• Renault Master
• Fiat Scudo
• Vauxhall Movano
• Iveco Daily

Like the 3/4 width model, this 51″ option is compatible with a wide array of vans, including the VW Caravelle, Kombi, and Shuttle models, indicating its adaptability to vehicles with more complex interior configurations.

Lower Height Beds: Catering for Specific Models

Some commercial vehicles, particularly those designed for smaller urban deliveries or specific passenger transport, have different internal layouts or lower floor heights. To accommodate these unique vehicle designs, Streamline offers a range of lower height rock and roll beds, characterised by a reduced seat height and wheel arch clearance requirement.

38″ and 42″ Wide Lower Height Bed

These narrower, lower beds are specifically designed for compact vans where space is at a premium and a lower profile is necessary to clear existing interior features or for overall aesthetic preference.

Compatible Vehicle Types:

• Mazda Bongo
• Toyota Alphard
• VW Caddy Maxi
• Nissan ElGrand

Please Note: These sized beds will also fit the Nissan NV200 and Nissan EN200, but the height is 1″ (2.5cm) taller due to the vehicle's specific floor design.

48″ Wide Lower Height Bed

This is a wider option within the lower height range, providing more sleeping space while maintaining the reduced overall height profile suitable for specific vehicle types.

Compatible Vehicle Types:

Please note: While the dimensions for this 48″ wide lower height bed are provided, specific compatible vehicle types were not detailed in the information available. This bed is designed for vehicles that can accommodate its specific width, lower seat height, and reduced wheel arch clearance. It’s crucial to measure your vehicle’s internal space meticulously to ensure a proper fit, paying particular attention to the wheel arch height and overall internal width at the bed’s intended position.

Choosing the Right Rock and Roll Bed for Your Van

Selecting the ideal rock and roll bed is a crucial step in your campervan conversion. Beyond simply checking if your vehicle is on a compatibility list, consider these factors:

• Measure, Measure, Measure: Even if your van is listed, always take precise measurements of your vehicle's interior. Pay attention to the width between side panels (especially at floor level and at the height of the bed), the height from the floor to the top of any wheel arch intrusions, and the desired seat height.
• Consider Your Layout: Think about your overall van layout. Do you need space for a kitchen unit, storage, or a toilet? A 3/4 width bed might be more suitable if you need to retain side access or install cabinetry. If maximum sleeping space is your priority, a full-width bed could be the answer.
• Passenger Requirements: If you plan to carry passengers in the rear of your van, an M1 Tested bed is non-negotiable for safety and legal compliance.
• Future-Proofing: Consider how you might use your van in the future. Will your needs change? Investing in a high-quality, versatile bed now can save you hassle later.

Remember, the goal is to find a bed that not only fits but also enhances the functionality and comfort of your converted commercial vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rock and Roll Beds

Q1: Can I install a rock and roll bed myself?

While it is possible for experienced DIY enthusiasts to install a rock and roll bed, it's a task that requires a good understanding of mechanics, vehicle structure, and safety. Correct installation is crucial, especially for M1 Tested beds, as improper fitting can compromise safety and potentially invalidate the M1 certification. If you're unsure, it's always recommended to seek professional installation from a reputable converter or mechanic who specialises in campervan conversions. They can ensure the bed is securely bolted to the chassis and meets all safety requirements.

Q2: What is the 'Easi-lift' feature mentioned for some beds?

The 'Easi-lift' feature refers to the mechanism that allows for smooth and effortless conversion of the bed from a seat to a sleeping platform, and vice-versa. This design incorporates gas struts or a similar assisted lifting system, making the process less physically demanding and more user-friendly. It significantly improves the daily practicality of your campervan, especially if you frequently switch between seating and sleeping modes.

Q3: Do I need to modify my van to fit a rock and roll bed?

In many cases, minor modifications may be necessary even if your vehicle is on the compatible list. This could include removing existing flooring, insulation, or trim panels. For some installations, particularly with full-width beds or if your van has specific internal features (like factory-fitted bulkheads or rear air conditioning units), more significant modifications might be required to ensure proper fit and secure mounting. Always check specific installation guides and measure your van's interior accurately before purchasing.

Q4: How do I measure my van for a rock and roll bed?

To measure your van, use a tape measure and consider the following:

• Internal Width: Measure the width between the internal side panels at the height where the bed will sit, usually around 20-30cm from the floor. Also, measure at floor level.
• Wheel Arch Height: Measure the height from the floor to the very top of your wheel arches. This is crucial for clearing the bed frame over them.
• Internal Length: While not directly related to bed width, measure the available length to ensure you have enough space for the bed when extended and any other desired amenities.
• Seat Belt Points: Check if your van has suitable, strong points on the chassis for securely bolting the bed and its seat belts.

Always take multiple measurements and compare them to the bed specifications to ensure a comfortable and safe fit.

Q5: Can I get custom-sized rock and roll beds?

While Streamline offers a comprehensive range of standard sizes designed to fit most common commercial vehicles, truly custom-sized beds are generally not offered due to the complexities of design, manufacturing, and especially M1 testing requirements. M1 testing is conducted on specific, pre-designed bed frames, and altering dimensions would necessitate re-testing, which is a significant and costly process. Our existing range is designed to cover the vast majority of needs, offering a practical solution without the extensive costs associated with bespoke fabrication and testing.

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