Altering/Reinforcing Rear Bumper of Nomad 23 Foot Travel Trailer for Receiver to Carry Bike Rack

Question:

The bumper on my Nomad 23 foot trailer is only 1 1/2inch by 3 1/4inch and is not a full square. Does that probably mean it is an aluminum bumper? It is reverse C-shaped. could I just put a six inch plate on the top and bottom of the hitch to give it support? I planned on using a two bike carrier, total weight probably 100 lbs. Thanks for any input....

asked by: Ted T

Expert Reply:

The Swagman RV Bumper Receiver you mentioned, part # S64025 is designed for a 4 inch square continuously welded steel tube bumper. I couldn't say what you're bumper is constructed of, but you could easily determine if the bumper is steel by sticking a magnet on it. If the magnet sticks, the bumper is steel. If it doesn't, it's likely aluminum.

It is theoretically possible that you could alter your existing bumper to 'provide support' but it would have an unknown effect on the weight capacity of the bumper. If you decided to do this, you would be responsible for doing all the engineering work to ensure the set-up had the proper weight capacity.

In my opinion, a better (not to mention much safer) solution might be the Stromberg Carlson bike bunk, part # CC-275. This would allow you to carry the bikes at the front of the trailer, using what's typically wasted space between the trailer and the rear of the tow vehicle.

expert reply by: Mike L