frame tube sizes

[metoady]

just wondering about the strength of using 2x2 .125 square tubing for the ends and side rails and 1 1/2 .090 for cross braces.
im trying to make a td like the outback td.
just a thought....
thankyou






the voices in my head may not be real,
but they have some good ideas!!!

[JunkMan]

That's similar to what I am thinking about, only I am going to use the 2" for the entire perimiter, and the 1 1/2" X 1" rectangular tubing for the 3 cross braces.

After reading some of the other posts about frames, I am thinking about possible using 2" angle for the whole frame (except the tongue), but I have to figure out if I will save a signficant amount of weight (I'm towing with a VW Beetle), since I already have the 2" and 1 1/2" X 1" tubing.

[angib]

My Tongue Strength page has got a list of typical frame sections with their weight per foot (and strength) shown.

If you're interested in less usual square/rect tube, angle or channel, download the spreadsheet which can calculate the weight (and strength) of any section you want.

Andrew

[JunkMan]

Thanks Andrew, I forgot about that page. It looks like I could save about 20-30 pounds using 2"x2"x3/16" angle iron instead of 2"x2"x1/8" square tubing (I don't have the weight of the 1 1/2" X 1" tubing to get an exact figure). I'll have to check the price of the angle, since I already have the square tubing, although I am sure that I could use the square for something in the future.

[angib]

(I don't have the weight of the 1 1/2" X 1" tubing to get an exact figure).

If you don't want to use the spreadsheet on my tongue strength page, I find Online Metals always quotes linear weights, though their stock range can be a little limited. Here is their rectangular tube page.

Andrew