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Chapter 06

Build the support into the walls early

Plan where the bed load goes while the van walls are still open.

The wall finish is not the structure

We did not attach the bed only to thin decorative wall panels. During the build, we installed meaningful support in this part of the van: the bed and partition wall, members tied into the van structure, and support around the Skorva bracket areas. The partition wall was attached into framing with pocket-hole screws.

After more than a year of rough roads, planning this support early appears to have paid off. The bed load goes into actual support structure rather than asking thin finish materials to carry it.

Plan the hidden work

Mark beam locations, structural backing, load paths, and possible conflicts with wiring, plumbing, windows, and insulation before installing the final wall finish. The exact safe attachment points depend on your vehicle and construction; this guide does not prescribe generic drilling locations.