How to attach receiver to RV

Question

This is our first camper, so be gentle! We purchased a used 2012 Open Range Roamer 266RLS. I'd like to attach a trailer hitch receiver for a hitch cargo carrier, primarily for our waste tank and a couple other odds and ends.

I did my homework, read up on them, and checked out the options on etrailer. Hooking up a bolt-on seemed to make the most sense, so that we could easily get to the underside of the trailer if necessary later. It made sense, at least, until I looked under the trailer. What I'm seeing looks nothing like the beams described in various forums, and in the installation guide.

Do I need to take the undercover shroud off in order for this to be clear? I see foam at the edges, so don't want to make more trouble than I have to. I don't mind diving in, just don't want to do anything stupid.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

mudchucker · Answer

Best to post a photo. Many units don't have I beams any more.  When we buy that's the first thing we look for as we triple tow.  You may have to remove the coroplast belly cover to expose the frame...

westend · Answer

Your biggest consideration will be how the bumper is attached to the frame, i.e. it's strength and the strength of the bumper material. If you are going to install the receiver yourself, you'll need to know a bit about metal and how it can be supported. There are more than just a couple of disengaged bumpers and torn bicycle racks I've seen on this Forum.

It may be in your best interest to visit a frame shop and get their opinion. Usually, a good welder can have the receiver installed quickly and have it durable for your purpose.

apt · Answer

Attaching something like this recevier to the frame should be fine.  I recommend both bolts and weld.

beemerphile1 · Answer

bacmb wrote:This is our first camper, so be gentle!  We purchased a used 2012 Open Range Roamer 266RLS.  I'd like to attach a trailer hitch receiver for a hitch cargo carrier, primarily for our waste tank and a couple other odds and ends.  I did my homework, read up on them, and checked out the options on etrailer.  Hooking up a bolt-on seemed to make the most sense, so that we could easily get to the underside of the trailer if necessary later.  It made sense, at least, until I looked under the trailer.  What I'm seeing looks nothing like the beams described in various forums, and in the installation guide.Do I need to take the undercover shroud off in order for this to be clear?  I see foam at the edges, so don't want to make more trouble than I have to.  I don't mind diving in, just don't want to do anything stupid.Thanks in advance for any advice!Yes, the panel covering the bottom will need removed and then modified to accommodate the receiver.You are probably looking at the universal adjustable RV receivers.  It should work well for you.  Stay from the receivers that only attach to the bumper.

houtrz · Answer

I am double towing my travel trailer with a single Jet Ski so I took my trailer to a local man here who builds low boy and goose neck trailers. I felt more comfortable with that since that's his line of work.

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How to attach receiver to RV

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