Removal of 'Backpack'

[bsdmom]

I have a 2010 Wildwood 18bhxl and would like to save some weight. Can the backpack (extended bumper and flip down tray) be removed?

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Forest River Forums mobile app

[Bob T]

I ordered a Wildcat 262RKX a few weeks ago. My model has the rack and extended bumper you are talking about. The rack on mine is removable as it is held in place with pins. I decided not to buy the rack which is an option, however the extended bumper is not. I was told by FR that I will have to get welder to cut the bumper off, shorten the ends of the frame and reweld the bumper. I don't know what impact that will have with frame warranty. I want to do this to install a hitch receiver to hold a bike rack.
Hope this helps
Bob

[pt1655]

Hello,
We have probably the same setup on our FR Surveyor 220. Not needing the rack, I took it off and its in storage. I then mounted the spare tire, stock location under the chassis in the front, onto the back bumper, which made it easier to get to and saved tongue weight (although I suspect the weight of the rack and spare tire were probably very close and cancelled each other out). In any case, the spare tire is now easier to access and I don't have that heavy rack on the back that we don't use.
Happy Camping!