I Forces applied to trailer hitch

AI Thread Summary
Towing a 10,000 lb. trailer downhill at a 6% grade and braking to a stop in 5 seconds generates significant forces on the trailer hitch, which are critical for determining plate thickness in hitch design. The original poster intends to use Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to model these forces. However, due to safety and liability concerns, forum members advise against providing assistance for such projects. They recommend consulting a professional mechanical engineer for guidance. The thread has been closed for moderation.
MRRM
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If I am towing a 10,000 lb. trailer downhill on a 6% grade at 65 mph and I hit the brakes coming to a complete stop in about 5 seconds, how much force is being applied to the trailer hitch?
I am trying to build my own hitch and the forces applied will help me determine plate thickness. I will be running an FEA model to test it out.
 
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Thread closed temporarily for Moderation...
 
MRRM said:
If I am towing a 10,000 lb. trailer downhill on a 6% grade at 65 mph and I hit the brakes coming to a complete stop in about 5 seconds, how much force is being applied to the trailer hitch?
I am trying to build my own hitch and the forces applied will help me determine plate thickness. I will be running an FEA model to test it out.
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

Because of the liability and life safety issues involved, we can't be of help on a project like that. I'd recommend that you find a local Mentor (preferably a professional ME with this type of experience) to help guide you in your project.

Thread will remain closed.
 
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