I am renovating a 1978 Airstream and want to add a TV lift in the bedroom

[G+_Michael Wild]

I am renovating a 1978 Airstream and want to add a TV lift in the bedroom. I have determined I am going to use a 30" linear actuator with 30" full extension slide rails. This will be my first project like this so every aspect is new to me.

 

Question: Where is the best place to buy the linear actuator?

I have provided a potential parts list below, anywhere else I should look?

 

Also, I have two designs. I am short on depth so one option is to attach the slide rails directly/flat against the TV. The other is to attached them perpendicular to the TV onto an aluminum frame. I get the TV mount will not be as strong, but I don't think I need the extra strength. Thoughts?

 

Thanks, Michael

 

 

TV Lift Parts List

- All prices in CAD unless otherwise noted

 

30” Linear Actuator Options:

 

$159.99 - 150 lbs - http://www.firgelliauto.ca/products/premium-linear-actuators

 

$166.65 - Firgelli - http://www.robotshop.com/ca/en/12vdc-30-stroke-200lb-premium-force-linear-actuator.html

* Stroke: 30”

* Retracted Length: 34.53"

* Extended Length: 64.53"

?

 

$114.33 - http://www.ebay.ca/itm/30-Stroke-Heavy-Duty-Linear-Actuator-12v-12-Volt-DC-200-Pound-Max-Lift-30-Inch-/122042491322

 

$114.96 - http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Heavy-Duty-30-30-Inch-Linear-Actuator-Stroke-225-Lb-Pound-Max-Lift-12V-Volt-DC-/261895618990

 

$121.49 - http://www.progressiveautomations.com/ca/mini-linear-actuator#ig_lightbox2[gal]/0/

 

$219.99 - Potentiometer - http://www.progressiveautomations.com/ca/linear-actuator-with-potentiometer

 

 

 

30” Full Extension Drawer Slide Options:

 

$57.40 - 200 lbs - http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=46578&cat=3,43614,43616&ap=1

 

$132 - 400 lbs - http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?p=50505&cat=3,43614,43616&ap=1

 

 

 

12 Volt Polarity Reversing Momentary Switch Options:

 

$21.99 - Rocker - http://www.princessauto.com/en/detail/12v-dc-polarity-reversing-rocker-switch/A-p8467169e

 

$21.99 - Toggle - http://www.princessauto.com/en/detail/12v-dc-polarity-reversing-momentary-toggle-switch/A-p8467193e

 

[G+_Eddie Foy]

I've used the Firgellis and they work well (though ones I used not in your weight/length range) Happy with their quality.

 

But I'd like to offer gravity.  Linear  actuators are expensive.  A simple motor to extend via linkage or block N tackle is easier and cheaper.  You only nee to drive one way and to a single position.  (and home) There are helical cables out there

 

But being a trailer, a good thing to have is a air compressor and small storage tank.  Ponder an air cylinder.

[G+_Keith Mallett]

Hey Michael Wild You found some good actuators. For the drawer slides I suggest approaching a network gear supplier and seeing if you can buy some old sliding server rack rails, they hold a lot of weight and are well built. However, Lee Valley stuff is top notch so you would be good there. For the switches, if you are in the Toronto area, Sayal electronics sells some good stuff cheap. Otherwise, I use Digikey.

 

Post some pics when you are done! I am doing some work on my camper as well.

[G+_Jason howe]

Not worth it as will need to restructure the whole van, prior to installing the slides then the hassle to re license it due to the new weight..

 

Before you cut anything you will need to weld in structural bracing so don't warp the..

 

Whilst the streamline might have a metal skin I would suspect the other 90% being a mix of chip board and 1-2ply sheeting..

 

You will likely need to restructure as you gut the caravan, if your sub floor isn't metal it would be a better idea to replace the floor 2-3" metal floor before laying in a sub wood floor, whilst I commend you in doing this build, it might be cheaper just buying a 5th wheel because you may end spending more than your budget allows for..

[G+_Jason Marsh]

Restoration budgets commonly exceed the post-restoration value of the vehicle. It's something people do as a labor of love. DOn't worry about the other Jason's comment.

 

Now, about that hideaway tv... Does it need to be a powered thing? A counterweighted retractable tv setup would be easier and a lot cheaper to build, albeit without as much cool factor. I'd imagine you could have a thinner package by placing the slides flat against the back of the tv. WIthin the cabinet, provide a cradle and cushioning for the tv when retracted. I'm sure there are RV-specific hardware for retractable TVs, but you could probably spend twice as much going that route.