2016 308BHDS fifth wheel bumper support

[Benbrig]

I am trying to add extra support to my bumper. I have a 2016 hideout 308bhds fifth wheel. The bumper is welded under the I beam. I guess I need to add extra support to two locations. Where the bumper is welded to the square tube and where the square tube is welded underneath the I beam. I saw where they make support brackets for the bumper end so not a big deal there but haven’t found nothing the support the square tubing to the I beam. I already carry about 100lbs and need to carry about 200lbs and extend the weight out a little more. I’m sure the welds are strong enough but want the extra support.

[flybouy]

Welcome to the forum. My advice .. Don't do it. It's usually not the welds that fail but rather the thin metal number itself. Two ways to do this, one is to replace the number with a heavier wall box and reinforce or Two, weld a receiver hitch to the frame.

Do a forum search and you will see many posts on this subject.

[Canonman]

I agree with Marshall. If you you think you'll be carrying 200+ pounds, cantilevered off the "stinky slinky storage tube" (it's not really a bumper) and are considering welding in supports, just spend the money on a good receiver hitch attached to the frame of your 5er. The metal is just too thin on the tube to fight the forces involved with supporting any substantial cargo, especially if the weight is loaded behind the tube. Our son-in-law loaded the family bicycles this way and the tube simply tore away from the welds at the frame. Save yourself the trouble and get it done right the first time.

[sourdough]

I agree with the above. That bumper is just not strong enough to support that kind of bouncing weight regardless IMO. I've seen one of them, metal literally ripped into, with 2 bicycles dangling at a 45 degree angle behind the trailer waiting to fall off in front of whoever was behind them. Get a receiver welded to the frame would be my suggestion.

[Benbrig]

Okay sounds good, ya I’ve never had a problem before carrying 250+ pounds but doesn’t mean I won’t have a problem in the future. so it sounds like I will install a hitch and mount it to the frame. Does anyone know if they sell a bolt on hitch that mounts to the frame or does it have to be custom made? Thanks.

[Canonman]

There are several bolt on receiver hitches on the market. Etrailer sells one under $400