Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Install Your FLATED Air Deck

Hello, FLATED friends and family! Ken Hoeve here, one of the co-founders of FLATED. Today, I'm excited to guide you through the simple installation process of one of our most popular products—the Air Deck. Available in three sizes (Cot, Medium, and Large), the Air Deck is perfect for transforming your vehicle into a comfortable sleeping and storage area. Let's get started!

Step 1: Unpack and Prepare for Inflation

1. Remove from Bag: Take your Air Deck out of its carrying bag and lay it flat on the ground.
2. Open for Inflation: Unfold the Air Deck completely and get ready to inflate it.

Step 2: Inflate the Air Deck

You have a few options for inflating your Air Deck:

Option 1: Hand Pump

1. Open the Cap and Close the Valve: Open the inflation cap and ensure the valve is closed.
2. Attach the Hose: Connect the hand pump hose to the valve.
3. Start Pumping: Inflate the Air Deck manually until it reaches the desired firmness.

Option 2: Electric Pump

1. Prepare the Pump: Open the cap and close the valve.
2. Attach and Inflate: Insert the electric pump nozzle, turn it on, and let it inflate the Air Deck. This method is quick and efficient.
3. Final Topping: If needed, use the hand pump to finish inflating to the desired firmness (5-8 PSI).

Option 3: Blower or Shop Vac

1. Initial Inflation: Open the cap and valve. Use a handheld blower or a shop vac (in reverse mode) to inflate the Air Deck. This method provides a quick initial inflation.
2. Final Topping: Close the valve, switch to a hand pump, and finish inflating to the desired firmness.

Step 3: Position the Air Deck

1. Place in Vehicle: Once inflated, pick up the Air Deck and place it in the back of your van or truck bed. It may require some maneuvering to get it in place, especially in smaller spaces.
2. Lay Flat: Ensure the Air Deck lies flat and is positioned correctly.

Step 4: Secure the Air Deck

1. Identify D-Rings: Locate the four D-rings at each corner of the Air Deck.
2. Attach Straps: Use the included straps to secure the Air Deck to your vehicle.
   • Run the straps through the D-rings.
   • Attach the straps to the plastic adjustment points.
   • Clip the metal buckle onto one of the four corner lockouts in your truck bed.

Securing on Rhino-Lined Trucks

If your truck bed is Rhino-lined, the lockout points might be too thick for the metal buckle. Here are two solutions:

1. Use Carabiner Clips: Attach carabiners to the lockout points and clip the straps onto the carabiners.
2. Alternative Strapping: Run the strap through the D-ring and lockout, then secure it with the plastic adjustment clip, bypassing the metal buckle.

Step 5: Make it Comfortable

1. Add a Sleeping Pad: Although you can sleep directly on the Air Deck, adding an air pad or Paco pad on top makes it more comfortable.
2. Set Up Your Bed: Place your sleeping bag and pillow on top of the Air Deck.

Benefits of the Air Deck

• Storage Space: Utilize the space underneath the Air Deck for storing bags, paddles, or other gear.
• Comfortable Platform: Sleep above the wheel wells, providing a wider and more comfortable sleeping area.
• Easy to Store: When not in use, deflate the Air Deck, roll it up, and store it in its carrying bag.

Final Thoughts

The FLATED Air Deck is designed to maximize comfort and utility in your vehicle. Whether you're on a weekend camping trip or need extra sleeping space, the Air Deck is your perfect companion. And when you're done, simply unhook, deflate, roll it up, and store it away.

Stay tuned for our upcoming Air Deck size, designed to fit short bed Tacomas and similar truck beds. Visit our website for more information.

Happy travels, and enjoy the comfort and convenience of your FLATED Air Deck!