How much is too much?

[Lance M]

I have a question for all the structural engineers out there. How much is too much?
Here are pics of Abby's rusty frame. I know I need to replace some cross members and out riggers, but how about the frame that looks like Swiss cheese? I have welded in a 1 1/2X 1 1/2 angle iron on the top of the frame channel. I would like to weld on a 3X3 C channel to support a gray tank and a larger black tank on the bottom of the 5" frame rail. Is this too much aft weight?

[newroswell]

That's looking rough Lance. Is the whole frame like that or just that section?

[Lance M]

It is just a few spots like this. This is the road side frame rail. Forward of this about 18" and it looks just fine. This is the area that was under the leaking water heater. I have made repairs on the curb side frame rail. Pictures of my completed patch on the curb side frame rail can be seen here.

[overlander63]

If it was me, I'd cut that section of frame out and replace it with some new 5" C channel. It's not that expensive, not that hard, and will save you headaches down the road.

[Splitrock]

I've never done a good job that I regretted.

[DanielB]

I've never done a good job that I know of.

[boatdoc]

Originally Posted by Splitrock

I've never done a good job that I regretted.

Hi Daniel;
The best is to replace the frame with all new Stainless steel 6" frame as I did. Just a joke on this recommendation, although I really did it. In my opinion I would replace the frame, rather than piecing it and having to do it over down the road. Thanks, "Boatdoc"

[Lance M]

Boatdoc,
I just listened to an old episode of the VAP where Rob mentioned your Stainless Steel framed trailer. That would be a nice way to do it. I believe they described it as "tank like". I'd love to see it some day.
As for my frame, I'm going for repairing with angle iron. It will add some weight to the rear. I just don't want to over do it.