Trailer Hitch for a 2010 Forest River Sandpiper 345RET 5th Wheel Trailer to Carry Generators

Updated 07/31/2013 | Published 07/29/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs, 22" to 72" Wide

(582)

$484.15

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(673)

$17.77

Question:

I purchased our Forest River Sandpiper 345RET 5th wheel a couple weeks ago and am planning a trip out west live in NC. I want to hang 2 Honda eu2000i generators on the back bumper to keep the AC running and the RV cool for our dog when we stop at attractions. I talked to the chasis/frame manufacturer Lippert today. The back bumper is only rated to hold 110lbs. So, by the time I fabricate a small carrier and add fuel Ill be well over the 110lbs. The manufacturer, because of liability concerns, offered no suggestions on how to beef up the bump or frame to enable carrying the generators. With all that said, are you familiar with the 345RET Lippert frame and do you feel the 13703 will provide the function that I need? My biggest concern is that I dont want to lose the generators running 65mph down the road and hurt someone.

asked by: Larry P

Expert Reply:

In order to be able to carry enough weight you will need to use a frame mounted trailer hitch like # 13703 or another, see link. The Curt hitch # 13703 is the most versatile but you will need to also use a stabilization strap, # 18050, for use with a cargo carrier or any other non-trailer load. The tongue weight capacity of this hitch is 350 pounds so the combined weight of the carrier you use plus the generators cannot exceed 350 pounds.

I am not all that familiar with the different trailer frames that are out there but I can tell you that the frame will need to extend all the way to the back of the trailer in order to safely use a hitch for your application. Welded on extensions are not strong enough. You would also want to contact Lippert again to ask them about the capacity if a hitch was used. If they can quote you a tongue weight capacity then which ever is lower, the quoted capacity, hitch, or carrier you use, is the weight capacity you have to go by.

expert reply by: Michael H