Astro sleeping platform?

[BigAl]

So I am going to look at a 94 Astro Conversion van AWD on Saturday. Anything I should look out for?

Are there any pros to starting with a Conversion van? I don't picture using the fold down couch. I am looking to build something that 2 people can camp in with maximum emphasis put into sleeping comfort.

Also does anyone have any pics of custom sleeping platforms in an Astro? Does a full size mattress fit?

 

[ihatemybike]

My second Astro was a 94. Check for loose idler arms, fluid leaks at the front diff axle shafts, fluid leak in the oil cooler lines. Ask if the fuel pump was replaced and if so what brand? None of these are deal breakers for me, but can be used to bring the price down.

Personally, I don't like conversion vans. If something happens to the big windows in the back they are next to impossible to find replacements for and it you can they aren't cheap. Plus the sofa bed in the back is really small in bed form.

I've purchased nothing but regular window vans with bench seats and have found them to the best of everything.

Seats in, the van handles shuttle service.
Seats out, they handle lots of cargo.

A full size mattress fit nicely in the back. I have a full size futon mattress that I use in the back of mine. Originally I would remove the seats and put it on the floor. This worked, but gear and bedding would often be overlapped and needing to be moved around. My last few trips I have a removable platform that I built behind the third row that's level with the folded seat backs. The two folded seat backs and the platform are the base for the futon mattress. This gives plenty of storage space under the platform and under and between the seats.

 

[kingbee]

First post here, although I've been a long time lurker. The subject is one I'm interested in- I've been tossing around ideas for camperizing my '05, so when i see posts on the subject my ears perk up.

I agree with Aaron about conversions- the only plus might be if it's a high top. Some extra headroom would be nice. Sounds like you're willing to dump the existing rear seat. If you only need to carry 2 people, that's a plus, since you don't need highway-safe rear seating. Here are some ideas for you:

First, an Astro high-top conversion made into a camper, for sale on ebay. Item # is 300503672188, look now before it's gone.

Second, a folding bench/bed from popular Science, July 1977, page 110
http://books.google.com/books?id=LA...ce=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false

Both examples use a side facing bench that folds out into a bed. The PS version folds flat out of the way, and can be removed if needed. I'd go this way myself but I need a safe rear seat for our 12 y.o. daughter, so my plans are more like what Aaron described, using a stock folding bench seat.

Hope this gives you some ideas.

Cheers,
Dave