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bacmb · 05-09-2016, 08:46 PM

This is our first camper, so be gentle! We purchased a used 2012 Open Range Roamer 266RLS. I'd like to attach a trailer hitch receiver for a hitch cargo carrier, primarily for our waste tank and a couple other odds and ends.

I did my homework, read up on them, and checked out the options on etrailer. Hooking up a bolt-on seemed to make the most sense, so that we could easily get to the underside of the trailer if necessary later. It made sense, at least, until I looked under the trailer. What I'm seeing looks nothing like the beams described in various forums, and in the installation guide.

Do I need to take the undercover shroud off in order for this to be clear? I see foam at the edges, so don't want to make more trouble than I have to. I don't mind diving in, just don't want to do anything stupid.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Mr_D · 05-09-2016, 08:49 PM

A lot of rigs do not have a heavy enough frame to attach anything to. And yes, you will need to take the fabric off to see the frame.

SmokeyWren · 05-09-2016, 09:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bacmb

Do I need to take the undercover shroud off in order for this to be clear?

Yes. You need to install a receiver that's bolted to the frame of the trailer. But if the underside at the back of your trailer is covered with an insulated cover, then you must remove that cover in order to see the frame. Be nice to the cover when you remove it, then plan to glue it back on using construction glue such as Liquid Nails.

Lots of TTs don't have enough frame at the back of the trailer to install a receiver hitch. However, DO NOT be tempted to bolt the receiver to the rear bumper of the trailer, In that case, your local farmer's welding (blacksmith) shop will need to extend the frame and reinforce it so it can handle the weight of your
cargo carrier. The receiver needs to have a weight-carrying (WC) weight rating of at least 500 pounds, but no need to have a class IV receiver with a weight-distributing weight rating. Some RV shops can also add a receiver to the tail end of a TT, but I prefer to use the experienced welders at a blacksmith shop that caters to farmers and ranchers.