Removing cabinets

Question

My apologies if I missed a previous thread on this topic.  We recently bought a 1994 Sunrise by Cobra (16 ft) travel trailer.  Removed the small overhead bunk in the front of the trailer and the cabinet above the dinette (didn't need/want either one). Now in hindsight, I'm wondering if either or both of these added to the structural integrity of the trailer.  I haven't been able to find a whole lot of information on the topic of cabinetry and structural integrity. What I have found is opposing opinions.  One site says the cabinets definitely add to the structure and the trailer may just come apart being towed down the road if you remove any of the cabinets.  Is there any truth to this?  The last thing I want to worry about is the camper exploding when towing it down the road at 60 mpg.  Thank you.

tyler0215 · Answer

Of course the cabinets and bunk add structural integrity to the TT.
Will it "explode" going down the road? Probably not. But it has been weakened.
OTOH you have removed weight from high inside the TT so that may be a good thing.

boomerweps · Answer

Does the item removed act as a brace between two surfaces, yes. Was that its primary or even secondary function, no.
Depends on how weakly the structure was designed if removing a cabinet or bunk support makes ANY difference.
A definite non-concern in all but exceptional cases.

ssthrd · Answer

If you are that concerned about it, maybe gussets in unobtrusive locations would help both structurally and mentally.

klutchdust · Answer

I removed a small cabinet from my TT and it was no more than a 1x2 with plywood stapled to it. On many  builds cabinets are installed over the existing walls. I doubt they offer much to the structural integrity of the trailer. As far as exploding, learn how to read the date codes on your tires, they explode and would cause significant damage to your rig.

lynnevans · Answer

Thank you for your replies.  The original intention was to to reduce weight by eliminating items we didn't think we'd need.  We will probably put a shelf up where the bunk was and maybe a narrow cabinet replacement above the dinette. It won't be  an exact replacement for either, but perhaps will add a little strength back. Regardless, I definitely feel better about it.  Thanks again for your replies.

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Removing cabinets

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