TomG2 wrote:
I see a frame that has a underslung connector as something that a freshman welding class might come up with when they realize the trailer needs some connection to the tow vehicle. Yes, it can be strong, that is not my point. When I look at the workmanship in the typical trailer, I buy what has the fewest welded on pieces.
While I understand your thinking what you may be inadvertently doing is getting the Less strong structure. Of course it depends on the design and the materials. They have to be consistent with the expected loads and the safety factor.
Properly welded joints are often stronger than the surrounding material. As was evident by the pics of the failure posted here.
Sometimes the actual best condition for loading a beam is not the intuitive one. As in the case of the A-frames on trailers.
