Front cargo carrier on a C

PartyOf Five wrote:
Thought about this as well, but by the time we were ready, we'd traveled a thousand miles being about 2000 overweight on the rear axle. We shifted weight to bring the rear down to 800 lbs, but didn't notice any change in driveability. We reduced the "emergency" gear and "must-have kids toys" and haven't had a problem since. But then we've not trekked into the wild as far either.

I put my rig on a "diet" I went through each compartment and thought about what I was carrying. I had 4 pairs of scissors in a 30' rig.

I moved heavier items mid coach and tools to the front compartment. I took the advice of what was posted once that most of what we may

need is available at the next off ramp. Because we travel to desolate desert areas there are certain items that are a must have in case we

need to limp back to civilization.

Try to see how the new front hitch would mount bc they tend to reduce ground clearance as well as the rack itself.

When I was using a front hitch/rack/box setup on my HD p/u , I found that I had to be very careful with driveway aprons and steep street intersections . Sometimes parking in lots where curbs were involved. I once bent my anti-rattle device so bad I had to cut it off.

I ended up changing the rack to an ATV rack with a rise, but it did block the radiator airflow and I noticed the temp difference climbing hills.

I added large diameter bent PVC tubes on the front box sides to redirect airflow towards the radiator but it did not help as much as I hoped.

Drew, add birds and bats to that road dirt list , lol .

I eventually scrapped the idea fearing excessive tranny temp damage. I also had the additional external tranny cooler as well.

End result: Using the riser style ATV rack for me was not a good idea bc it decreased airflow but offered more ground clearance. I guess the box might work better on some chassis and maybe not so much on others ?

Thought about this as well, but by the time we were ready, we'd traveled a thousand miles being about 2000 overweight on the rear axle. We shifted weight to bring the rear down to 800 lbs, but didn't notice any change in driveability. We reduced the "emergency" gear and "must-have kids toys" and haven't had a problem since. But then we've not trekked into the wild as far either.

I do that when I have a trailer hooked up and need more hitch space. Usually just a couple heavy coolers or dry boxes, sometimes a dirt bike. Never had any cooking issues but I’d already added a Tru-Cool max transmission cooler because my Buckstop grill guard did block air to the stock cooler.

I've heard of a few people doing it. It's a viable idea. You do have to pay attention to ensure that you aren't blocking too much airflow through the radiator or obstructing the headlights and turn signals. You also will be subjecting the cargo to bugs, road grime, etc., though that's also broadly true with a rear-mounted cargo carrier. However, if things work out where it's reasonable to do, it can be entirely practical.

You might be able to get some improvement by shifting heavy items from rear cargo compartments and storage locations towards the front ones, and vice-versa for lightweight items if needed.