Strength of Steel Fender to Withstand 200 lb Utilizing as a Step

Question:

Thanks...note this is a boat trailer so there's really not much room to weld. Do you sell a fender that you would recommend for standing on? I understand the bit about brackets, but they will be only on the bottom edge.

asked by: Ted

Expert Reply:

The Single Axle Trailer Fender # HP56VR is made of 14 gauge steel and has one edge that is a 90 degree angle to weld it to your trailer and the other has a more rolled edge. The strength of the fender and ability to hold 200 lbs is based on your mounting. To stand on this fender, you will need to not only weld the edge but also as you stated add brackets which will support the weight. The steel is strong, but I recommend using brackets that can hold the weight on their own to ensure you won't have any deformation on your trailer fender when you step on it. You wouldn't have any issue on the welded side, but the further you move to the outside edge the more risk of deforming without proper bracing for that purpose.

expert reply by: Jason S

Ted

5/8/2018

Jason S.

5/8/2018

We have the plastic fenders with step like the Fulton Single Axle Trailer Fender with Top and Side Steps # F008595 rated for 300 lbs. Another option is to use a separate step like the HitchMate Boat Trailer Step - 5" Wide x 9" Long - 400 lbs # HE4036. This is designed for this use and mount directly to the frame.

Bill G.

7/7/2020

Can I bolt this fender to the side of an enclosed trailer?

Chris R.

7/11/2020

If you wanted to bolt the Fender # HP56VR directly to the side of your trailer you certainly could. Using mounting brackets like the kit # CE26098G-2 would help to make that easier.