179 dinette table size

Thanks StephenH now I know what the 2 angle cross bars were used for!! 

As far as I can see, the slide-out does not rest on the two ends. There is not much room though, so there is no access to the compartments while the slide-out is in. That could be remedied by adding a door though.

As for taking off the ends, you could easily do so with the one close to the bed. The other end next to the refrigerator contains too much to simply remove. You would need to find a way to cover the wiring that would then be exposed. I don't see there being a great deal of benefit to removing the one next to the refrigerator.

I don't think so. Since the seats do not perform a support function, they are not affecting the slide one way or another. Removing the one by the bed should not affect the performance of the slide.

The problem with the idea of a double recliner is that there really isn't room. If the wheel were not in the way, the slide-out could be made with a full floor to ceiling length that would allow it. However, the reason we have a dinette is that the long bench seat sits on the bottom of the slide-out which can't be lower because of the wheel. What we have is really the only viable option unless the kitchen were put there. Then there would be room to put a couple of recliners where the kitchen is currently. However, you would lose the storage. Everything is a trade-off. Some people re-do the cushions to make them more comfortable. That might be something you could try.

I tried going to the Ikea link, but it takes me to a Balkarp Sleeper Sofa, not a futon. My wife and I were looking at the tables, but she wants to stick with the one we have. She says that it is better for her sewing machine because it is more stable than the folding one would be.