Conversion from Sleeper to Crewcab

UK PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS FORUMS OWNER AND FLEET OPERATORS FORUM (INTERACTIVE)
1

Hi Folks.
Away from work I run a flat bed Merc with sleeper cab (twin bunks)as a private HGV for weekend motorsport.
With the top bunk folded flat against the cab back wall, it forms a great bench seat with footwells behind the two front seats. Perfect as a day cab. I want to start taking wife & two teenagers but dont want to fall foul of the law. (fine / points, etc)

Had a slog through VOSA website, etc but its as clear as mud, and was hoping one of you guys could help direct me.
Is it just a case of completing a Notifiable Alteration Form advising increasing number of seats to 4 and seeing if VOSA want to inspect?
Its pre-2006 so doesnt have seatbelts anywhere. so guess I dont have to fit them, though I’ll probably do it at some point anyway. (only just bought the truck)
Thanks
Gruff

2

it might be worth speaking to your local driving school most of them have extra seats were the bunk goes they might help you

3

Slightly different situation, I had a volkswagon van for similar purposes and the brick wall I met was insurance.
I looked at what extra it would cost me and insurers didn’t want to know. No one would even give me a quote as the seats weren’t factory fitted.

4

Mmmm. Not thought of that one Davhems. I’ll investigate that one. It’s on race transporter insurance similar to equestrian who dont differentiate on seat numbers thankfully. Good point though.

5

Have a look at the estepe.nl site for ideas.

They just fold the bunk down and fit lap belts across the bunk that can be tucked away.

6

Cold Up North:
Have a look at the estepe.nl site for ideas.

They just fold the bunk down and fit lap belts across the bunk that can be tucked away.

I reckon I could just fit lap belts looking at their combo design. Cheers for that. Nice one. Gruff

7

All Merc sleeper cabs cab be orders with seats in the back instead of beds, for training and recovery jobs. I believe that there is a retro fit kit available, proper type approved seats and belts, …what it casts is another matter.