How to Determine If Swagman RV 2-Bike RV Bumper Mount Rack is Right For Your Application

Question:

I have a Dutchmen Coleman Lantern Lt 16FB travel trailer how would I find out if this bike rack would work on my bumper. What does continuous welded steel square bumper mean? The bumper is metal it holds my waste hose and spare tire. How do I know if this bike rack will work? If you could tell me how to find the information. Didn't buy trailer from dealer.

asked by: Debbie

Expert Reply:

Many RV bumper manufacturers construct their product with a plastic cap or a hinged door instead of endcap, allowing bumper to be used for storage; apparently you have this type. Open that end piece to examine if the seam has spot welds (short welds at a number of separate points) or one continuous weld running the full length of the bumper; take note of the thickness of the metal while doing so. Some bumpers, frequently identified as heavy duty, will not have a weld seam at all but are constructed of one piece square tubing without a weld/seam. This is more commonly found on the larger RV's such as 5th wheels. Smaller travel trailers will more commonly have a bumper constructed of flat steel, sometimes aluminum, shaped/bent into a square tube and welded at the seam. A continuous weld will offer greater strength than a spot weld. It is advised to contact the manufacturer for ratings of the bumpers they installed, if you purchased this used it is not a big deal, most all manufacturers will still support inquiries.

The above will help you determine if the RV Bumper 2 Bike Rack, # S80605 can be used on your specific travel trailers bumper. If you determine that for your specific application you would prefer extra support, the Mount-n-Lock SafetyStruts Standard RV Bumper Support Brackets - 4" to 4-1/2", # MO22FR or # MO34VR, can be added. This is designed to strengthen the OEM supports. Note the attached product review and installation videos for these items.

If in after all examinations and considerations of bumper you decide the RV Bumper 2 Bike Rack, # S80605 is not your preferred route, then we have the option of the Curt Adjustable Hitch # 13703 along with a trailer/RV approved rack like the excellent Swagman Trailhead 4-Bike Rack # S63381. The Curt hitch will mount to any box frame, C-channel frame, or I-beam frame that is between 22 inches and 72 inches wide. The included hardware can be used to bolt the hitch to the trailer or it can be welded on for a no-drill application. I have attached an installation video that you can use for reference.

expert reply by: Michael R