Adding gusset/bracing to shackle hangers...

[PnrFab]

Has anyone added gussets or support to their shackle hangers? My 2017 Keystone Passport has me worried they'll rip off. I drew up a diagram in paint to kinda show what I'm talking about. The red would be the gusset/bracing I'd weld to the frame.

[wrgrs50s]

The usual method is to weld a piece of 2x2 square tubing from one spring hanger to the other directly across, above the bolt holes in the hanger and close to the frame. This would transfer any stress to the other side when backing to balance the forces of twisting to both hangers instead of just the one. To be honest you may not need to do anything unless you can see some evidence of excessive flexing while backing.

From your photo's it appears that they used over sized spring hangers and had to pinch them together to fit your springs inside. I also see that a few of your shackle bolts are not pulled down to the shackle all the way. You might want to check those.

[hohenwald48]

If you do it by your sketch you'll need longer bolts. I don't know how hard they might be to find. Also, you need to take precautions to not blow electronic control boards when welding. I can't see any harm in adding braces but I've never heard of anyone having a problem with factory brackets either.