ATF: Big Country - Frame mounted rear hitch

[Bob Vaughn]

I bolted a hitch to the rear of my 2011 Big Country. Twice over the past couple of years the hitch has ripped out of the frame. I used grade 8 bolts but I think because the frame ends so far from the actual rear the camper with the extension into the receiver it is like a fulcrum and the weight of 2 bicycles bouncing in the carrier just bends the frame. I wonder if it is possible to have extensions welded to the frame in order to better support the receiver?

 

[Jesstruckn/Jesstalkn]

Yes I did a custom 2" hitch with 20" rectangle tubing on both sides with a 20" weld on the outer seem.
https://heartlandowners.org/showthread.php/54076-Project-LM-365?p=439083&viewfull=1#post439083

 

[cookie]

Many people have welded a hitch to the rear of their camper.
In my opinion I feel it would be best to grind off the brackets that your hitch is welded to and start over by having someone (welder) fabricate a new hitch.
There would be no need for an extension, only a sturdy hitch.

Peace
Dave