What frame bed and where to buy?

[m.marino]

Ice,

Aluminum is rather expensive for a bed if you go the solid plate with T channel route. It is still not "cheap" if you go the aluminum strap that you true and surface. MDF could be used but realize that it will warp over time and need to be checked regularly to resurface as needed. High grade plywood (marine grade will work very well) is also an option as is going with a plastic like HDPE or UHMWPE.

It really depends on you budget and how accurate you want things to be. With that type of frame the bed, will add a good bit of rigidity to the whole structure. If on a rather tight budget I would save up and get the HDPE (15 - 20 mm thick would do), surface it and then bolt it down to the bed. As that will allow you to bolt to the bed rather easily and also give strength that will rival the aluminum bed; without the cost of the aluminum. Now saying that HDPE is not cheap either in large sheet sections so sit down and look at the budget before you jump into anything.

Good Luck

Michael