Rock and Roll Bed Setup

[Gniffer]

Hi all,

I have recently acquired a T25 HighTop ?Autohomes conversion (I am fairly new to VW vans) and am looking to replace the tired upholstery.
It has a 3/4 Rock and Roll bed and when I examined it there is no bed frame as I was expecting but just 1 metal hinge each side that is bolted directly through the back of the seats and onto the wooden seat backs beneath the upholstery. There is therefore no way to remove the upholstery without unbolting and then ripping it off (no zips).
Interestingly is sits at a height that means that the rear cushion can sit directly over the engine inspection hatch without need for a raised shelf.

Is it usual to have no metal bed frame?
Is it usual to bolt the seats with upholstery directly on; it can't have been cleaned properly since installation - no wonder it stinks!!!
I want to put a 3point harness for a child's car seat. Is it safe? I have read that is vulnerable if heavy boot contents are thrown forward in the event of front collision.

I am looking for safe, sturdy and practical (ie removable/cleanable cushions); I dont; have the expertise to fashion one out of a futon or whatever else I've seen done!
Am I best off buying a proper rock and roll bed frame and bolting it in eg A bluebird frame???

Any input very much appreciated.
Cheers

[vwsween]

Only just seen your question. Difficult to picture what you describe but it certainly doesn't sound like the later type Autohome beds - which are very easy - one end rests on furniture one side and a metal fold down leg other side level with rear cushion which sits on 2 drawers over engine. Sounds as if roof and interior may have been taken from another van or vans at some point. Some older conversions have simple hinged boards for the seat base and back - even autosleepers used this method. Not wishing to offend but are you sure you have an Autohomes conversion?

[vanisveryrusty]

I had an Autohomes that came with a bed as described.
It was an early Aircooled van.

[lefty67]

my holdsworth villa has a similar bed to yours except the cushions are removable. Two hinges either side with two boards that fold down flat and two cushions made from thick foam with removable covers, the back piece has a kind of sleeve which loops over the back of the board to keep it in place. Look as though they are pretty straight forward to make or be made.
There are also companies that will fit three point seat belts and quite a few people on here have had it done.