Just ordered a 21BHS which we will hopefully get by Mid-March. Thanks for all the great information... Our first trip is already scheduled and campsites reserved!
Based on info here we got the aluminum package, 3 fantastic fans, 20lb tanks, power awning, adding external gas line. The dealers in the PNW were not able to get anywhere close to the dealer prices in the Midwest so we are purchasing from the Midwest. One dealer actually laughed when I told him the numbers I was getting and said he wished he could buy them for that... Apparently they pay a fortune for shipping to here.
So um... is there anything really important we should do/change after getting it home? I have a Honda eu2000 that I'm hoping to attach to the rear bumper somehow. I can't use a hitch based cargo rack because I will have a bike rack there instead...
[font size="3"]Before you put anything on the rear bumper, search this forum for posts on bike carriers and rear bumper mods/upgrades, particularly my posts. The factory installed bumper is inherently weak and needs reinforcement. There is some indication the factory is considering strengthening it, but no confirmation so far. Having just placed the order you may be able to negotiate with them. Several schemes exist but all require aluminum welding. I wouldn't even think about putting a generator back there.
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Yep, I've already read most of the posts (if not all) on it. My dealer is trying to get LL to add the additional support. If not, one of my best friends builds aluminum boats and said he could easily add that support on.
Would you have any concerns with the support added? The genny only weighs 48lbs. My plan for it is to hopefully get it attached to sit right on top of the bumper.
[font size="3"]I think if the added 2x4 AL tube is welded per my previous posts, forward and inside of the existing bumper, and welded to the frame and the existing bumper, you will be OK. The Honda is pretty narrow so you should be able to get it almost directly over the new bumper. Tied down well and with a safety cable, it should ride fine. Same for the bikes. Just keep in mind that back bumper is a wicked ride for anything.
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Thanks Charlie, one thing that isn't absolutely clear to me is the welding schedule. In the pics I have seen, there is a continuous weld along the frame, but then only a few spot welds where it mates with the bumper. How exactly should it be welded?
[font size="3"]Glad you asked that ;) . [/font][font size="3"]The original welds between the top of the frame and original bumper are the most likely to fail. [/font][font size="3"]Any torque from bikes, gens, etc will put those joints in tension which is not a weld's strongest property. [/font][font size="3"]You are trying to get all welds in shear. The new welds connecting to the frame on three surfaces of the added 2x4 are critical. The partial welds along the length of the new 2x4 are only to keep the two 2x4s from moving or slipping relative to each other. They are not as critical so three to five should be adequate. If you're going to add a 2" receiver in the center for a bike rack you should avoid a weld exactly in the center as it may interfere with a snug fit for the bolt-on hitch receiver. Plan carefully and you'll still get it wrong :) .
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Thanks Charlie, that helps a ton!
One other question Charlie... is there any hitch receiver that is better (or should be avoided) ? I'm currently looking at about 3 different ones on etrailer which look like they would work.
Quote from: @tbrady" source="/post/26520/thread" timestamp="1482204855One other question Charlie... is there any hitch receiver that is better (or should be avoided) ? I'm currently looking at about 3 different ones on etrailer which look like they would work.
I'll let Charlie answer for himself, but I think he has a Swagman receiver, which is what we have as well (on our 21BHS). It is very strong, easy to install, and works great!
[font size="3"]Yes. [a href="http://www.swagman.net/product/bumper-adaptor/"]Swagman[/a]
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Hate to be a spoiler, but doesn't he risk violating the warranty if he modifies the bumper. I think I waited til after the one year? to beef up my bumper for my Swagman Bike Rack ( which I LOVE ! ) Correct me if I'm wrong.