Vertical Murphy Bed Hardware Kit Instructions

Step 1: Cut Cabinet Pieces

Cut all cabinet pieces to the dimensions listed for your selected bed size.

Step 2: Mark Drilling Locations

On the right and left cabinet Sides (1), mark the drilling locations for the Threaded Inserts (T) that will be used to attach the Mounting Plates (I). Refer to the Drilling Guide diagram.

Diagram Description (Figure 1):

Figure 1 illustrates the right and left cabinet side panels. It shows specific markings for drilling pilot holes. The diagram indicates two locations on each side panel for installing threaded inserts. Each location requires a 27/64" diameter x 9/16" deep pilot hole.

Notice: Do NOT use other fasteners, such as standard wood screws, to attach the Mounting Plates (I) to the Sides (1). The forces involved in the operation of the bed mechanism could cause less robust fasteners to fail, potentially resulting in serious personal injury.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes

Drill a 27/64" diameter x 9/16" deep pilot hole at each marked location. (See Figure 1).

Step 4: Install Threaded Inserts

Use an 8mm Allen Key (not included) to drive the Threaded Inserts (T) into the pilot holes. Drive the inserts flush to the surface of the Sides, taking care not to strip the hole by driving too far. (See Figure 1).

Step 5: Attach Mounting Plates

Using the #5 Allen Key (S2), attach the Mounting Plates (I) to the Sides (1) with M8 x 16mm Screws (U) threaded into the Threaded Inserts (T). Wait until all screws are installed to fully tighten them. (See Figure 1).

Step 1: Assemble Top and Upper Headboard

Place the Top (2) on a work surface with its inside face up. Position the Upper Headboard (3) on edge against the inside face of the Top (2) to form an "L." Clamp in place. Mark locations for three joint-reinforcing dowels across the back edge of the Top (2) and the back face of the Upper Headboard (3). Also mark drilling locations for four screws on the top face of the Top (2). (See Figure 2).

Diagram Description (Figure 2):

Figure 2 shows how to assemble the Top (2) with the Upper Headboard (3) and the Bottom (2) with the Lower Headboard (4). It illustrates the use of dowel rods and screws for joining these parts. For the Top/Upper Headboard assembly, it shows dowel locations on the edge of the Top and the face of the Headboard, and screw locations on the top face of the Top panel.

Step 2: Drill and Countersink Pilot Holes

While the Top (2) and Upper Headboard (3) are clamped, drill and countersink (if desired) pilot holes for #8 x 2" Screws (not included). (See Figure 2).

Step 3: Prepare for Dowel Joinery

Release the clamps. Use a doweling jig and 3/8" drill bit to bore 3/8" x 5/8" deep holes in the inside face of the Top (2) and 3/8" x 1" deep holes in the top edge of the Upper Headboard (3). These pieces will be joined with 3/8" x 1 1/2" dowels and wood glue (not included). (See Figure 2).

Step 4: Assemble Bottom and Lower Headboard

Repeat Steps 6-8 for the Bottom (2) and Lower Headboard (4), drilling for dowels and screws at the same intervals. (See Figure 2).

Step 5: Join Headboard Assemblies

Assemble the Top (2) with the Upper Headboard (3) and the Bottom (2) with the Lower Headboard (4). Apply glue to the joining edges and dowel holes. Bring the pieces together, ensure the joint is square, and secure with #8 x 2" screws (not included) driven into the pilot holes. Wipe away excess glue with a damp cloth.

Step 6: Position for Side Panel Marking

To mark screw and dowel drilling locations, position the two assemblies so the front edge of the Top (2) and Bottom (2) rest on the floor. Prop up the Upper and Lower Headboards (3 and 4) to keep them vertical.

Step 7: Position Right Cabinet Side

Position the right cabinet Side (1) so its top edge is flush with the Top (2) and its bottom edge is flush with the Bottom (2). (See Figure 3).

Diagram Description (Figure 3):

Figure 3 shows the assembly of the cabinet sides (1) to the Top/Bottom (2) and Headboard (3, 4) assemblies. It illustrates top-down and front views, indicating where dowel rods and screws are used to join the side panels to the horizontal and vertical cabinet components. It also shows the screw and dowel locations on the back edges of the side panels connecting to the headboards.

Step 8: Mark Right Side Panel Connections (Top and Upper Headboard)

Clamp the right Side (1) in place. Mark locations for two joint-reinforcing dowels across the top edge of the right Side (1) and the top face of the Top (2). Mark drilling locations for three screws on the outside face of the right Side (into the Top). Also mark locations for two dowels across the back edge of the right Side (1) and the back face of the Upper Headboard (3), as well as three screws on the outside face of the right Side (into the Upper Headboard). (See Figure 3).

Step 9: Mark Right Side Panel Connections (Bottom and Lower Headboard)

Move to the bottom of the right Side (1). Mark locations for two dowels across the bottom edge of the right Side and the bottom face of the Bottom (2). Mark drilling locations for three screws on the outside face of the right Side (into the Bottom). Also mark locations for three dowels across the back edge of the right Side (1) and the back face of the Lower Headboard (4), as well as four screws on the outside face of the right Side (into the Lower Headboard). (See Figure 3).

Step 10: Drill and Countersink Right Side

While parts are clamped, drill and countersink (if desired) pilot holes for #8 x 2" Screws (not included).

Step 11: Repeat for Left Side

Repeat Steps 12-15 for the left Side (1).

Step 12: Prepare for Dowel Joinery (Sides)

Release the clamps. Use a doweling jig and 3/8" drill bit to bore 3/8" x 5/8" deep holes on the inside faces of the Sides (1) and 3/8" x 1" deep holes in the edges of the cabinet Top (2), Bottom (2), Upper Headboard (3), and Lower Headboard (4). These pieces will be joined with 3/8" x 1 1/2" dowels and wood glue (not included).

Step 13: Attach Sides to Top/Bottom Assemblies

Attach the Sides (1) to the Top and Bottom assemblies using dowels, wood glue, and screws. Drive screws fully to secure all pieces. Check for squareness as you proceed. Screw holes can be concealed with wood filler for painted applications or with screw plugs/buttons for stained or clear-coated projects.

Step 1: Position Cabinet

With the help of another adult, move the bed cabinet to the installation site. If the wall has base molding, cut the molding to allow the cabinet to sit flush to the wall. Position the bed cabinet against the wall.

Step 2: Locate and Mark Studs

Determine and mark the locations of wall studs using a stud finder on the Upper and Lower Headboards (3 and 4). Mark at least two stud locations for Twin and Full beds, and at least three for Queen beds.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes in Headboards

Make a cross mark at each stud location, 3" down from the top of the Upper Headboard (3) and 3" up from the bottom of the Lower Headboard (4). Drill 3/16" diameter pilot holes through the headboards and into the wall and studs. (See Figure 4).

Diagram Description (Figure 4):

Figure 4 shows a front view of the bed cabinet against a wall, illustrating stud locations and where lag bolts should be installed. It indicates lag bolt locations on both the upper and lower headboards, emphasizing that these bolts must go into wooden wall studs. The diagram highlights the importance of securing the cabinet to multiple studs for larger bed sizes.

Notice: Check the front edges of the bed cabinet with a level to ensure they are plumb. If not, use shims behind the cabinet on both sides to make them plumb.

Step 4: Secure Cabinet to Wall

Drive 1/4" x 3" Washer Head Lag Bolts (KK) through the pilot holes and into the wall studs to fully secure the headboards.

Step 1: Mark Stud Centerlines

Carefully working from a step stool or ladder, determine and mark the centerlines of the wall studs above the cabinet. Extend these marks 90° out onto the bed cabinet Top (2). Mark at least two stud locations for Twin and Full beds, and at least three for Queen beds.

Step 2: Mark Bracket Hole Location A1

Along each stud centerline drawn in Step 1, mark Drilling Location A1. (See Figure 5).

Diagram Description (Figure 5):

Figure 5 shows the top surface of the bed cabinet and the wall above it. It details the drilling locations for mounting the Wall Brackets (HH). It illustrates how to mark the stud centerlines on the cabinet top and then specific points (A1 through A6) for drilling. Location A1 is where the steel dowel of the bracket inserts. Locations A2, A3, A4 are for screws into the cabinet top, and A5, A6 are for lag bolts into the wall studs.

Step 3: Drill Hole for Steel Dowel

Drill a 13/64" diameter x 5/8" deep hole at each A1 location. Take care not to drill all the way through the bed cabinet Top (2).

Step 4: Position Bracket and Mark Other Holes

Position a Wall Bracket (HH) at each location, inserting the steel dowel into the A1 hole. Mark Drilling Locations A2, A3, and A4 on the bed cabinet Top, and Drilling Locations A5 and A6 on the wall. (See Figure 5).

Step 5: Drill Hole for Cabinet Top Screw

Drill a 5/16" diameter hole through the bed cabinet Top (2) at Drilling Location A2 on each centerline. (See Figure 6).

Diagram Description (Figure 6):

Figure 6 shows a top view of the cabinet top and the wall stud. It illustrates the placement of a Wall Bracket (HH) and the corresponding drilling locations (A1-A6) for securing it. It shows the steel dowel at A1, screws at A2, A3, A4 into the cabinet top, and lag bolts at A5, A6 into the wall stud.

Step 6: Drill Pilot Holes for Cabinet Top Screws

At Drilling Locations A3 and A4 on each stud centerline, drill a 5/32" diameter x 5/8" deep pilot hole. Take care not to drill all the way through the cabinet Top (2). (See Figure 6).

Step 7: Drill Pilot Holes for Wall Lag Bolts

At Drilling Locations A5 and A6 on the wall, drill 3/16" pilot holes for the 1/4" x 3" Washer Head Lag Bolts (KK). Remember, each Wall Bracket (HH) MUST attach to the wall with TWO lag bolts. (See Figure 7).

Diagram Description (Figure 7):

Figure 7 shows a side view of a Wall Bracket (HH) attached to the cabinet top and the wall. It details the hardware used: lag bolts (KK) securing the bracket to the wall stud, washer head screws (JJ) securing the bracket to the cabinet top, and an Allen head screw (II) from underneath the cabinet top into the bracket. It also shows the relative positions of the wood stud, wall, and cabinet top.

Warning: Do NOT use an impact driver to drive fasteners; the added torque of an impact driver increases the risk of stripping the pilot holes and weakening connections. Do NOT overtighten screws.

Step 8: Secure Brackets to Cabinet and Wall

Return the Wall Brackets (HH) onto the bed cabinet Top. Secure each bracket to the Top with two #12 x 3/4" Washer Head Screws (JJ). Secure each bracket to the wall by driving two 1/4" x 3" Washer Head Lag Bolts (KK). (See Figure 7).

Step 9: Secure Brackets from Underside

Working from inside the bed cabinet, insert a 1/4"-20 Allen Head Screw (II) into the hole on the underside of the cabinet Top at each bracket location and thread it into the tapped hole in the Wall Bracket (HH). Tighten the bolt with the #4 Allen Key (NN). (See Figure 7).

Step 1: Attach Half Frame Supports to Side

Ensure that the mounting plates of the Upper/Lower Half Frame Supports (B) are pointing toward each other. Also, ensure that the tabs and corner braces on the Left/Right Side of the Frame (A) are at the bottom. Attach Upper/Lower Half Frame Supports (B) to one Left/Right Side of the Frame (A), using M8 x 50mm bolts (BB) and M8 Lock Nuts (FF).

Step 2: Attach Middle Frame Support to Side

Attach a Middle Frame Support (C) to the Left/Right Side of the Frame (A), using M8 x 50mm bolts (BB) and M8 Lock Nuts (FF).

Step 3: Repeat for Other Side

Repeat Steps 1 and 2 for the other Left/Right Side of the Frame (A), Upper/Lower Half Frame Supports (B), and Middle Frame Support (C).

Step 4: Attach Flat Bars and Upper/Lower Frame Supports to Center Support

Ensure that the metal tabs protruding from the Upper/Lower Frame Supports (E) and the Long Center Frame Support (D) are at the bottom. Attach a Flat Bar (F) and an Upper/Lower Frame Support (E) to each end of the Long Center Frame Support (D), using M8 x 50mm bolts (BB) and M8 Lock Nuts (FF).

Step 5: Position Center Support Assembly

Position the Long Center Frame Support assembly between the two side frame assemblies, ensuring that all tabs are at the bottom. The Flat Bars (F) bolted to the Upper/Lower Frame Supports (E) should remain on the outside of the Left/Right Sides of the Frame (A).

Step 6: Fit Assemblies Together

Bring the assemblies together, fitting the narrowed ends of the Upper/Lower Frame Supports (E) into the open ends of the Left/Right Sides of the Frame (A).

Step 7: Attach Side Assemblies to Center Support

Attach the side assemblies to the Long Center Frame Support (D) with M8 x 50mm bolts (BB) and M8 Lock Nuts (FF).

Step 8: Complete Frame Assembly

Complete the frame by installing M8 x 50mm Bolts (BB) through the Flat Bars (F) and the Left/Right Sides of the Frame (A) near the corners, securing them with M8 Lock Nuts (FF).

Diagram Description (Frame Exploded View):

This diagram shows an exploded view of the bed frame assembly. It labels parts A (Left/Right Frame Sides), B (Upper/Lower Half Frame Supports), C (Middle Frame Supports), D (Long Center Frame Support), E (Upper/Lower Frame Supports), F (Flat Bars), and indicates the use of M8 x 50mm Bolts (BB) and M8 Lock Nuts (FF) for connections. It shows how the side frames connect to the center support structure and how the flat bars are integrated.

Step 1: Begin at the Head

Start at the head of the bed, nearest the pivot points on the Left/Right Sides of the Frame (A).

Step 2: Prepare Slat Pairs

Take two Slats (O) and place a Slat Cap (P) on one end of each. Connect them by inserting the other ends into a Double Slat Cap (Q).

Step 3: Install Slat Pairs on Frame

Install the slats on the frame by inserting the pins on the Slat Caps (P) and Double Slat Cap (Q) into the corresponding mounting holes in the frame. You might need to bend the Slats slightly and use a rubber mallet to tap the Slat Caps and Double Slat Cap into place. (See Figure 8).

Diagram Description (Figure 8):

Figure 8 shows a close-up of the frame's pivot point area and the installation of slats. It illustrates how to connect two slats (O) using a Slat Cap (P) on one end and a Double Slat Cap (Q) on the other. It shows the pins on the caps fitting into holes on the frame.

Step 4: Install Remaining Slats (Partial)

Repeat to install all Slats, except those in Rows 8 and 20 for Twin and Full beds, and Rows 8, 11, and 20 for Queen beds. These specific slats will be installed later. (See Figure 9).

Diagram Description (Figure 9):

Figure 9 provides a schematic view of the bed frame with numbered rows indicating slat placement. It highlights specific rows (8, 11 for Queen, 20) where slats are not installed initially, indicating they are installed in a later step. Row 11 is specifically noted as not being placed for Queen Size Beds.

Step 1: Attach Pistons to Bed Frame

Attach the Pistons (G1) to the bed frame on each side. Fit the opening on the end with the internal rod onto the threaded stud beyond the pivot point at the head of the frame. Secure the Pistons to the frame with M8 Lock Nuts (FF). (See Figure 10).

Diagram Description (Figure 10):

Figure 10 shows the connection point of the Piston (G1) to the bed frame near the pivot point. It illustrates the piston's rod end fitting onto a threaded stud and being secured with an M8 Lock Nut (FF).

Step 2: Install Frame into Mounting Plates

Install the frame into the Mounting Plates (I) by positioning the bearing of the pivot point on the Left/Right Sides of the Frame (A) into the saddle of each plate. (See Figure 11).

Diagram Description (Figure 11):

Figure 11 shows the pivot point of the bed frame being seated into the saddle of the Mounting Plate (I). It details how to secure the pivot bearing using a Saddle Locking Plate (J), an M5 x 15mm Screw (Z), and an M5 Nut (EE).

Step 3: Secure Pivot Bearing

Secure the bearing on each side with a Saddle Locking Plate (J). The tab at the front of the plate fits into an opening in the saddle, and the plate is secured to the saddle with an M5 x 15mm Screw (Z) and M5 Nut (EE). Tighten the Screw fully.

Notice: The application of a thread-locking liquid to the M5 x 15mm Screw (Z) is recommended to ensure the M5 Nut (EE) remains securely tightened.

Step 4: Attach Pistons to Mounting Plates

Warning: Once the pistons are attached to the Mounting Plates, the unit is under pressure. Do NOT let go of the mechanism if you have pulled the bed frame down; the bed frame could snap up suddenly, possibly causing serious injury.

Carefully tilt the frame upward past the front edge of the cabinet and hold it there. (See Figure 12). On each side, fit the end of the Piston (G1) onto the threaded stud on the Mounting Plate (I) and secure with an M8 Lock Nut (FF). (See Figure 13).

Diagram Description (Figure 12):

Figure 12 shows the bed frame being tilted upward and pulled out beyond the front edge of the cabinet, illustrating the position required to attach the pistons to the mounting plates.

Diagram Description (Figure 13):

Figure 13 shows the Piston (G1) being attached to the threaded stud on the Mounting Plate (I) with an M8 Lock Nut (FF), after the frame has been tilted forward.

Step 5: Install Temporary Stops

Pull the top of the bed frame out beyond the front of the cabinet and install the Temporary Stops (GG) on the top corners of the cabinet. (See Figure 14).

Diagram Description (Figure 14):

Figure 14 shows the bed frame pulled forward, with Temporary Stops (GG) placed on the top corners of the cabinet to hold the frame in position. It also shows the Permanent Stop (6) being positioned and secured to the cabinet.

Step 6: Install Permanent Stop

Position the Permanent Stop (6) where you want to install it. Ensure it is centered and set back from the front edge far enough that the frame will be plumb when closed. Drill pilot holes and secure with three #8 x 1 1/4" screws (not included). (See Figure 14).

Step 7: Attach Legs to Frame

With the Temporary Stops (GG) still holding the top of the frame out from the cabinet, fit a Nylon Washer (DD) onto the threaded stem of the left Leg (M) and fit the threaded stem into its hole in the frame. Fit another Nylon Washer onto the stem and secure with an M8 Lock Nut (FF). Do not overtighten, or the leg might not pivot correctly. (See Figure 15).

Diagram Description (Figure 15):

Figure 15 shows the attachment of the Legs (M) and Leg Tube (N). It illustrates the use of Nylon Washers (DD) and M8 Lock Nuts (FF) for the legs, and M6 x 30mm Screws (AA) for connecting the Leg Tube (N) to the Legs (M).

Step 8: Repeat for Right Leg

Repeat Step 7 for the right Leg (M).

Step 9: Attach Leg Tube

Attach the Leg Tube (N) to the Legs (M) with four M6 x 30mm Screws (AA), driven with the #4 Allen Key (NN). Drive the Screws through the Legs into tapped holes in the Leg Tube. (See Figure 15).

Step 1: Determine Bracket Locations

Refer to Figure 16 to determine Door Bracket (L) mounting number and locations for your bed size. Note that the brackets need to point downward when installed, and the locations shown are for the bottom mounting hole on the Door Brackets.

Diagram Description (Figure 16):

Figure 16 shows the dimensions and placement for attaching Door Brackets (L) to the Door Panels (5). It provides measurements for Twin and Full beds (requiring 2 panels) and Queen beds (requiring 2 panels). The measurements indicate specific distances from edges for bracket mounting holes, ensuring correct alignment when the door panels are attached to the frame.

Step 2: Drill Pilot Holes and Attach Brackets to Doors

Drill 5/64" diameter x 5/8" deep pilot holes at the determined locations on your Door Panel(s) (5) and attach each Door Bracket (L) with two #8 x 15mm Screws (W).

Step 3: Mount Door Handles

Mount your door handle(s) (not included) to the front face of your Door Panel(s) (5) at a height that will allow you to comfortably pull down the bed. About one-third of the way down from the top of the door is a good rule of thumb.

Step 4: Hook Door Panels onto Frame

Hook the Door Panel(s) (5) onto the frame and push down until they are firmly in place. Center and fine-tune the position of the Door Panel(s). (See Figure 17).

Diagram Description (Figure 17):

Figure 17 shows the Door Panel (5) being hooked onto the bed frame. It illustrates the process of aligning the attached brackets with the frame and pushing down to secure them.

Step 5: Hold Bed Frame Down

Warning: The bed will not stay down without the weight of a mattress. You MUST have an adult helper hold down the bed to avoid the risk of serious injury from the bed suddenly slamming shut.

Pull the bed frame down and have an adult helper hold it down.

Step 6: Check Door Panel Clearance

Before permanently attaching the Door Panels to the frame, ensure their outside edges will not contact the Mounting Plates or any of their hardware. Door Panels MUST NOT hit the hardware when the bed legs are retracted and the bed is lowered beyond the normal horizontal position. If they do, you MUST either fine-tune the position of the Door Panels on the frame, or the Door Panels' width MUST be reduced.

Step 7: Permanently Attach Frame to Door Panels

Permanently attach the frame to the Door Panel(s) (5) by driving #8 x 15mm Screws (W) through the mounting tabs on the frame into the Door Panel(s). You will drive 20 screws for a Twin bed and 28 screws for a Full or Queen bed. (See Figure 18).

Diagram Description (Figure 18):

Figure 18 shows the final attachment of the Door Panels (5) to the bed frame. It indicates the locations where #8 x 15mm Screws (W) are driven through the frame into the door panels. It also shows the locations for reinforcing #10 x 55mm Screws (V) around the frame, excluding the Long Center Frame Support (D).

Step 8: Reinforce Connection

Reinforce the connection by driving #10 x 55mm Screws (V) through mounting holes in the full frame at 26 locations around the frame. (See Figure 18). Do NOT drive screws through the Long Center Frame Support (D).

Step 1: Install Remaining Slats

Install the remaining Slats (O), Slat Caps (P), and Double Slat Caps (Q). These will go in Rows 8 and 20 in Twin and Full beds, and Rows 8, 11, and 20 in Queen beds. Use a rubber mallet to tap the Slat Caps and Double Slat Cap into place, if necessary. (See Figure 19).

Diagram Description (Figure 19):

Figure 19 shows the installation of the final set of slats, Slat Caps (P), and Double Slat Caps (Q) into the designated rows on the bed frame.

Step 2: Install Mattress Supports

Install the Mattress Support(s) (H) at the head of the frame by inserting the ends into the appropriate holes in the frame. Twin beds will have one Mattress Support; Full and Queen beds will have two. (See Figure 20).

Diagram Description (Figure 20):

Figure 20 illustrates the placement of the Mattress Support(s) (H) at the head of the bed frame, showing where they insert into the frame.

Step 1: Deploy Legs

Once the bed unit has been assembled correctly and secured to the wall, pull the bed down. While holding the frame securely, pivot the Leg assembly so that it will support the frame when it is fully lowered.

Step 2: Install Mattress

Have an adult helper hold the bed frame down while you slide the mattress onto the frame.

Step 3: Retract Legs

To return the bed to the cabinet, hold the frame and pivot the Leg assembly up and over the end of the mattress. The Leg assembly serves as a mattress retaining system.

Step 4: Stow Bed

Using the handles on the Door Panels, slowly and carefully allow the bed to tilt up into the cabinet.