Storage Rack

[Super Thirty]

We did our first real trip of any distance at the beginning of August and we thoroughly enjoyed our time. Learned a few things about timing arrivals and planning fuel stops(RV's apparently don't fit in every gas station). We also learned a few things about what to store for easy access and where to store it. We had several discussions about different ways to approach this and I was thinking of a rear bumper rack for the RV. We have a 2" hitch on ours so a metal basket type would fit. Does anyone have a bumper mount storage rack on the back of their trailer? I am looking at purchasing one to carry things like our sewer tote, outdoor equipment etc. I am just wondering what others have done and what worked well before I go purchase one.


Sent from my iPad using Forest River Forums

[jwedell]

This is what we use, got it at walmart for about $50.00. Just be careful how much weight you put on it. The rack can carry it but the hitch is limited. I also have one made out of aluminum for long trips to cut down on the weight.




Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

[Super Thirty]

Originally Posted by jwedell

This is what we use, got it at walmart for about $50.00. Just be careful how much weight you put on it. The rack can carry it but the hitch is limited. I also have one made out of aluminum for long trips to cut down on the weight.

Attachment 60736


Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

Thanks for the reply. Hey that looks like a pretty sweet set up. I have a hitch for pulling my boat behind the RV so that would definitely work for my tote or even my generator if the capacity allows. Is there a weight capacity on the rack?


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums

[jwedell]

On Long Island we have no camping with sewer hook ups. Most is beach camping on the Atlantic Ocean. When we go we carry the tote tank on the rack because it is lite and carry 2 Honda 2K generators in the truck. When we get there we put the tote tank in the truck and the generators on the rack off the sand. We have a macerator pump with a switch to pump the grey water into the tank and drive it to the dump station. Works great for us. The rack is rated for 500 lbs.


Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

[Super Thirty]

Okay. That would definitely work for us. Wouldn't be hard to secure to trailer either. Thanks for the info.



Sent from my iPad using Forest River Forums

[DaGrinch]

I had a 2" receiver welded on the top of my rear bumper of my '08 Roo 23SS - had my friendly neighborhood welder also weld a support piece between the rear of the frames, which the receiver was also welded to. I then used this..



You'll notice the wheel and some blue behind the softside - that's our Barker.

But after awhile, I ditched the softside and went with a box from Tractor Supply ... TSC Heavy-Duty Poly Utility Storage Box, 44 in. - Tractor Supply Co.

Just bolted the corners of the box with nuts/bolts & fender washers. Stored all kinds of stuff in there. Strapped the Barker behind the box.

[Super Thirty]

That's a nice set up too. Sounds from your description that my hitch is mounted like yours is. I really like the idea of the box. Lots of choices by the looks of it.
Thanks


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums

[DaGrinch]

Originally Posted by Super Thirty

That's a nice set up too. Sounds from your description that my hitch is mounted like yours is. I really like the idea of the box. Lots of choices by the looks of it.
Thanks


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums

Just remember, you may have to counter-balance, depending on how much weight you put back there.

[jwedell]

For each pound of cargo on the rack offset it with 1 pound of beer in the front.


Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

[Super Thirty]

For sure. That's why we were thinking a rack would work because I'm finding that my front storage is getting fairly full. Be nice to balance the weight out a bit.
Thanks


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums

[Super Thirty]

I like the way you plan your weight distribution. Lol.


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums

[DaGrinch]

Originally Posted by Super Thirty

I like the way you plan your weight distribution. Lol.


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums

X2!

[jwedell]

Now if I could only find a way to keep the fresh water tank cold enough for beer.


Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

[richp]

Hi,

After seeing posts here and there warning people about weight issues on the rear bumper, I have a couple of questions.

For those who have actually had bumper breakage or seen it in person, what actually breaks loose? What is the point of vulnerability in that area?

My 2014 Silverback has a small receiver hitch below the bumper, which evidently is intended for bike racks only. On my old Jayco fiver I bolted a 2" receiver fitting on the bumper itself, and never had a problem with heavier items being carried back there.

Is the CC frame/bumper attachment method that much more susceptible to fatigue or breakage?

Thanks.

Rich Phillips

[jwedell]

Most of the problems come from bumper mounted hitches like the one below

http://www.delcity.net/cartviewitem?...FWwQ7AodtxIAaw

The levered twisting force causes the bumper welds to separate. The hitches attached to the frame are much stronger. All Mfgs. Void the frame warranty if bumper hitches are installed.
If you use one keep an eye on the welds.








Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

[richp]

Hi jw,

That's a variant on the type I used on my Jayco for years with no trouble. I never would have thought this to be a problem on my new one. Guess I'll have to slide under there, take a look, and then revise my thinking on how and what I use that location for.

I seem to recall that the "bike only" receiver on mine is welded to the frame. If the bumper/frame welds are that puny, then I suppose I better look at the receiver setup every now and then as well.

Thanks.

Rich Phillips

[jwedell]

The warrantees on these things are a joke. If you're not worried about the 1 year warranty then I would have a local welding shop look and see if they can make the bumper stronger. I only use the rack for local camping and when we go to any further I leave it home.


Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

[Super Thirty]

Originally Posted by jwedell

Now if I could only find a way to keep the fresh water tank cold enough for beer.


Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

If you figure it out let me know before you patent it. Lol


Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums

[garbonz]

I your rig has a receiver then it is good for what it is rated for. If there is no hitch receiver than the bumper is to thin. Don't do it


Sent from my iPad using Forest River Forums

[DaGrinch]

Originally Posted by jwedell

Most of the problems come from bumper mounted hitches like the one below

Curt Trailer Hitches Details - Del City

The levered twisting force causes the bumper welds to separate. The hitches attached to the frame are much stronger. All Mfgs. Void the frame warranty if bumper hitches are installed.
If you use one keep an eye on the welds.

Started Out With Nothing,
Still Have Most Of It Left!

Which is why I had a piece welded between the frames, behind the bumper. I kept the receiver close to the rear edge of the bumper, but it was welded to the support piece as well as the bumper. Carried 3 bikes to Myrtle Beach and back. Then carried the poly toolbox mentioned in a previous post. Never had an issue. But on the other hand, I tried to not overload things.

I do know some people strongly advise against doing anything or attaching anything to the rear bumper. Know the risks before hand.