RV Bumper Reciever Hitch

[martoli]

I began pondering how to get the Rear of the Rv not to sag from a ton of gear including the onboard generator. So I started a project that would accomodate a 6000w generator on the Bumper of the rig. This is better for me as I run the generator while driving and don't trust the rear genset in the case of a fire. I knew it would'nt be easy as there are no provisions to hang 300 plus pounds of machine to the weight of the cab. After a few months of thinking about the project this is what I've created to solve this problem. I still have to figure how I want to secure the Generator but that should take the least amount of effort. This generator would run sensitive equipment like large movie recorders and electronics.

[theguapo]

uuum. gotta see the finished product I suppose. Let's see the pics.

[whateg0]

I applaud the initiative to tackle this, but those clamps look a little light for having a generator hanging a couple feet out. The mounting system doesn't just have to be able to support the weight of a 300# generator. It has to do it when the generator is hitting it with 1000#+ of force when you hit a bump. A solidly mounted solution would be better, IMHO.

Dave

[Wyoming]

For a front mounted attachment I would be going over-built. If you don't want to deal with a single mounting point just add a second receiver to the design below. You idea may work, but hanging it off a thin gauge bumper doesn't leave much room for error. Best of luck.

[Hotfoot]

Those RV bumpers are usually pretty wimpy! Always mount to the frame directly!

[martoli]

I know how gimpy wimpy the bumper is. I figured that the physics of the program is that most of the weight will be pushing straight down while the rest will be forced into the chassis. The main reason for the buildout with two draw bars was because of the steering box knuckle and pitman arm was in the way. I plan to finnish the project this summer and take a test drive down Washington Street across the 7th st Bridge here in Phoenix. When you descend from the Overpass on 7th st. You cross a Bump from **** where the Light rail passes. If the generator doesn't fall off or hit the pavement there I suppose I will be O.K. for the test. I'll keep you posted.

[whateg0]

... I figured that the physics of the program is that most of the weight will be pushing straight down while the rest will be forced into the chassis. ....

That is incorrect. The center of gravity is going to be 1-2 ft in front of the bumper. That is leverage! The weight of the generator will be trying to twist the bumper, pulling out on the flimsy upper portion.

Dave