Structual Repair with metal components

biggjb wrote:
This is more a theoretical question as I have not seen posts pertaining to using steel 2x4s to replace rotten wooden ones. My camper has some significant repairs and I thought about trying to incorporate metal frame components in order to reduce weight. I can see a problem if the wooden part only needs to be partially replaced, however, if the whole component requires replacement could one use a metal component in its place? Any thoughts would be welcome.

There will be almost no weight savings between metal suds and wood studs . There will be some difficulty using both in the same wall . Metal studs will transfer more heat and cold . Metal strapping and cleats at joints will greatly strengthen the wood framing and repairs . That's about 2 cents worth .

I've read that there is a concern in Tiny Houses, screws in metal studs vibrate loose while being towed. And they are towed less than a RV.
Welding or nuts and bolts would be an option.

I've done a few small projects with metal studs, they're really easy to work with as opposed to wood.
But, for what you plan, wood may be a better choice.

Welded aluminum. Find someo0ne that is good at it. If it is a small job you could probably screw and bolt it together.

2x4 aluminium angle is way lighter than 2x4 fir and much stronger, water resistant and such.
That said where do you see 2x4 in the camper?
I did extensive front end repairs on my Fleetwood and the thickest wood member was 3/4".
Than the slide support on my Lance sag and broke off on 1 end. The wood construction used .75 x 2.5 wood, but it is beech, so much stronger than fir.
Reinforced it with aluminium angle as well, who hid conveniently under siding.
That said such repairs are not easy as going from metal to wood frame require some engineering.
It is not for just anyone.

How is a steel 2x4 going to save weight over a wooden one?