Snap up bracket question.

[wilnis]

Since I got a TN60A tractor last summer, I "had" to buy a new trailer to haul it around. I got a 12,000# capacity Mustang and have a question about how to use my weight distribution hitch. The snap up brackets have a capacity of 2 1/2" which fits fine over the L shaped angle iron front that extends to the hitch on the horse trailer I currently use it on, but the new trailer has I beam front bars, 8" high and 4" wide so the brackets won't fit and the "I" shape makes it so there is no place to brace the brackets. I'm open to suggestions, Please, and while my skill set does not include welding at this point, I have a buddy who is a pro and would help. Thanks-Bill

 

[George2615]

You might check with a camping trailer dealer who sells WD hitches with your situation. Maybe he sells the snap up brackets that will fit your trailer frame. If not I'm sure your welder friend can adapt your existing brackets to fit the I-beam trailer frame by welding in a piece of C-channel to take up the gap. You might be able to drill down through the frame top and bolt your existing brackets in place. If the correct brackets you need aren't readily available thats what I'd do.

 

[Boomerang1]

You might be able to drill down through the frame top and bolt your existing brackets in place.

If you have to drill on the frame, you should drill on the side and never on the top or bottom.

 

[George2615]

Boomerang,
Just a question as to why not to drill on top or bottom? He has an I-beam type frame. I don't see were a couple of 3/8" holes to mount something would affect the structural strength of the frame. What is your thought on this?
George

 

[LBrown59]

If you have to drill on the frame, you should drill on the side and never on the top or bottom.

WHY ?

 

[Boomerang1]

You should always drill or weld through the web on a frame and not the flange. There is a lot of stress on the flanges and you could weaken the frame. It is the same reason why you should never weld on the top of an axle tube. You may be ok doing so on a light duty trailer or truck with a mild steel frame but never on a high carbon steel frame.