ryanb-72 wrote:

GeoRoo, That is way cool!! I would love to do that to our Jayco. Unfortunately it does not have a square bumper though. HHHMMMMMM.....

Great job bet that will really come in handy!

Jeremy626 wrote:

Not sure if I missed this in the post, but nice job on welding up the frame for the truckbox, looks beefy to support the weight and looks like it's securely mounted to the square bumper. However the square bumper to trailer frame is the weakest connection point in that whole setup (unless you reinforced the bumper to frame connection and I missed it).

My fear would be driving down the road and that whole assembly would crack the welds and it would come flying off..still attached to the bumper!

I'd also be nervous about road clearance with the spare tire below.

Besides that, it looks nice.

GeoRoo wrote:

Wow, thanks for the feedback all, I appreciate the comments...

First, I am waiting on a custom crank assembly for the spare, which will go under the trailer (closer to the front/middle). My friend who welded the frame is TDY for several weeks and I won't have the part until he returns (later this fall). The trailer is currently in storage and will be there until Sep/Oct (for our next two outings). and yes, it did clear the driveway! ;p

Background: we historically have used a single hitch receiver and hitch-haul carrier (manufacturer's max capacity of 500lbs, which we NEVER tested). This hitch haul carrier forced us to stow the spare in either the tow vehicle or trailer. This temp location of the spare frees up some space and is very safe. It clears very well and the departure angle only changed by a degree or two (which is negligible for a trailer). Besides, I avoid uneven terrain and obstacles even with a clean bumper... And, I mission plan my routes to and from the camp site prior to departing and choose only level sites... I admit, that it is a bit of a challenge removing/mounting the spare (but it is only temporary). While performing the truck box mod, I was surprised to discover that the spare fit underneath... I never meant for it to be permanent.

Secondly, this year model trailer's bumper ties directly into the I beams/frame (6", running full length), and upon consult with the manufacturer; they have determined it to be safe. I can reinforce it but the total weight of the mod (with gear) is less than 120lbs (majority of it being the frame and truck box). The distribution of weight along the dual-hitch receivers and welded frame are very sufficient (imo). I don't have engineering analysis, or data to prove this to you but it is very solid. I have planned on adding a bike carrier to the frame but I am reconsidering a new location... Where, I don't know. I am brainstorming...

I will need to add reflectors to the frame to finish the mod (some states require it, some do not) and would like to add a backup camera as well... TBD...

I've learned so much from this forum and appreciate all of the technical analysis, positive feedback, brilliant ideas and encouragement. That's why I'm a member here, and hopefully one day I can encourage others to get the most out of their rig and camping experience... Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Vr, Geo