Tensile Strength of 4 square RV Bumper

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SUMMARY

The tensile strength of a 4" square RV bumper with a wall thickness of 0.090 inches is under scrutiny for its ability to support loads up to 3,500 lbs and a tongue weight of 350 lbs. The bumper is welded to box frames spaced 60 inches apart, and the hitch will be mounted at the center. The discussion highlights the need for a scientific method to calculate tensile strength and suggests that the current wall thickness may be insufficient for the intended load. Participants recommend providing detailed drawings for better evaluation.

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  • Understanding of tensile strength calculations
  • Knowledge of welding techniques and structural integrity
  • Familiarity with RV hitch specifications
  • Basic engineering principles related to load distribution
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for calculating tensile strength of materials
  • Learn about structural analysis for RV hitches
  • Investigate alternative materials or wall thicknesses for increased strength
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RV enthusiasts, engineers, and fabricators involved in hitch design and load-bearing structures, particularly those interested in towing capabilities and safety assessments.

LuvToFish
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Tensile Strength of 4" square RV Bumper

I'm building a Class II style hitch for mounting on a 4" square RV Bumper. The RV bumper wall thickness is around .090 thousands. The bumper is welded perpendicular to a couple box frames on 60" centers. I intend to mount the hitch directly to the center of the bumper. My question is simply this, does this 4" box bumper have enough tensile strength to withstand loads up to 3,500 lbs and a tongue weight of up to 350 lbs? I would like to be able to pull my Boat behind the RV. Nothing like going camping without the boat, right?

My gut tells me no, but without the necessary knowledge to scientifically compute tensile strength of the box frame, I have no way of proving my theory.

Does anyone have a quick and dirty method for determining this? If this setup will not work, what wall thickness would be required to withstand the loading of the boat?

Thanks in advance for any assistance provided!
 
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Hi fish. If you attach a drawing of what you plan on doing, it would be a whole lot easier to evaluate. Please include as much detail as you can.
 

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