Maximum FWC Advised Load Weight On Roof...Up or Down

[DesertDog]

Thanks Craig!

Agree, I see that it is welded. But becomes a moot point since there are no aluminum cross ribs to weld. I count 3 cross round tubes, and if these are same as the picture in "Snow Broke My Roof" these appear to be galvanized steel (guessing electrical conduit as a low-cost material to use) which obviously cannot be welded to aluminum. However, they do stretch across full width of the camper which by itself should increase the load capability.

How much more? Hard to say without know the dimensions and thickness of the parts and made more difficult since deflection of the longitudinal stringers is now tied to deflection of the steel cross tubes and this will vary at each junction.

 

[ckent323]

Desert Dog,

Have you tried to contact FWC about the construction of your specific camper model and year?

I am confident that FWC camper frames are all Aluminum and that FWC does not use galvanized steel in the camper frame construction.

Here is another WTW post on FWC camper frame construction that might be helpful

Stan: Question about FWC frame weldment

I am thinking of mounting a TV mount next to the louvered passenger side window towards the back in my 2010 Hawk. I tapped on the area and it feels solid. I ran a stud finder across the area and it looks like there is a sheet of aluminum welded in place. When I looked at the only picture that I...

www.wanderthewest.com

Here is a generic reference to the issue of galvanic reaction between Aluminum and (various) steels.

Can Stainless Steel and Aluminum Be Used Together?

When aluminium makes contact with stainless steel fasteners, corrosion can occur. However, the two metals can be used together, read more!

marshfasteners.com

 

[DesertDog]

Hi Craig,

Good info, especially about SS in Al.

Here is the photo I'm basing my comments on. Can't swear that is it galvanize steel but neither does it look like aluminum to me. Color difference is not as stark in the link you provided.

PS: My camper is fine, nor do I live in snow country. I'm just trying to answer the OP question if the roof can carry more weight in down position.