Removing the bunk ends

[Jim K in PA]

I have been considering taking out one of my bunk-ends for a long time. I have drawings that I did for a replacement wall.



Anyway, I thought that you might find the "shelf" concept interesting.

Wayne-thanks for sharing your idea.  I will consider that when we get a little deeper into the project.

[HersheyGirl]

In the furture, I want to remove the bunk ends on my camper too.  Have thought about doing that for a couple of years.  If you do do this mod, please post as I am very interested in the outcome.  I think this is a great idea for those who camp alone.  Good luck and stay in touch.

[Jim K in PA]

Update-

A couple of days ago I spoke with Alan Tesch of Bear Creek Canvas.  We discussed a variety of options with respect to the replacement end panel.  Here are the key points:

Lower flap attachment - since there is no bunk end to wrap the bunk end flaps around, the solution we concluded would be most appropriate would be a combination of velcro and snaps along the upper edge of the box.

Zippers - Fleetwood uses a proprietary zipper profile, so BCC needs the factory ends so they can remove and reuse the zippers.

Material - Alan explained some details about the canvas they use and the material used by Fleetwood and others.  BCC only uses genuine cotton canvas that is waterproof, UV resistent and mold/mildew resistant.

The cost for the custom ends would be the same as for a replacement end (~$270/side).

Initially Alan was a bit tenuous about the project, and our seriousness.  But after a few minutes he began to get into the idea.  By the time we finished, he was thoroughly enthused with the idea.

If this project moves forward, we will be dealing with Alan and BCC.  We spent almost a half hour on the phone discussing a potential project that may or may not generate a sale.  He is very generous with his time and information.  I highly recommend BCC.

Stay tuned.  It may be a while before anything happens, but if it does I will post another update.

[wavery]

I had the same discussion with Bear Creek Canvas about a year ago. I even sent him drawings.

The solution to the zipper problem is easy. Just buy 2 new zippers assemblies. Sew one half onto the new panel and sew the other half onto your front and rear panels as a second zipper. That way, you can always switch back to having your bunk-end, if needed.

If you go with a fold-out shelf at the bottom of the new wall, the attachment to the box is not critical but you could put it on the inside. This would facilitate easier set-up because you wouldn't have to mess with attaching anything. The shelf would hold the canvas out at an angle so the water would run off, away from the camper. A flap could be sewn in to lay over the outside of the camper wall but it wouldn't need to be attached to the camper. This would keep the water from running in on the corners.

Now that you've got me thinking about this project again, maybe I'll get started on it (if i can find my drawings). :sombraro: