Strength of m105 trailer bows for roof top tent

[richcz28]

I have a m1028 that I am sectioning a m105 trailer to create a bed. I currently do not have the trailer bows for the trailer bed, and I have never had the opportunity to see them in person. I am looking to make a rack to hold my roof top tent. I am wondering how strong the original bows would be if I found a set. Could they be used for this purpose? They would have to safely hold 500 pounds across what I'm guessing would be only three of the bows.

Thanks

 

[RedHeadTarn]

Mine were 30 year old wood with metal corners, I wouldn't trust it past about 150 lbs, plus there was some front to back play that would lend itself to instability, if you're looking to do what you want, I would recommend all metal bows, shouldn't be too hard to have made, I'll take a picture of mine tomorrow for you.

 

[richcz28]

Awesome, thanks! I did not know they were wood bows. When I was surfing the internet I think I saw metal bows. Maybe they were for a newer trailer. That may also explain why I saw some elbows for sale at different surplus sites.

I wonder if I could grab the elbows and some rectangular steel tube to replace the wood and avoid the cost of having pieces custom bent. Would the elbows support a decent amount of weight?

 

[m16ty]

If you can find some metal bows from a generator trailer, they may could be made to work. They are much stronger than the wooden M105 bows but still aren't strong enough for a huge amount of weight.

 

[gimpyrobb]

The new metal bows work for the 101 and the 105. I have a set and I don't think I'd trust a tent on them. You might look into making some custom ones that are more stout.

 

[Recovry4x4]

I don't think I would trust them either.

 

[TAMU86]

I have a M105A3 with the new metal bows... These are not robust to hold any loads other than the canopy safely.

Have seen M105's and older versions at Overland Expo which had fabricated bows (cage) to hold fold over tent and other cargo... A great setup. The cargo section had roller shelves for kitchen, coolers, etc. that made a very functioning setup.

 

[richcz28]

Thanks guys, I won't waste my time searching for the originals. Hopefully I can get something fabricated in the next few weeks.