Flutterby™! : RV Mods

I didn't rationalize buying a TIG welder and making it all myself from scratch, but I did recycle a lot of parts from the venerable Fiesta Trailer and do a fair job of bolting it all together. The only part I bought was the tool box and some bolts. All of the rest of the project was from the old rig, and stuff I had laying around (yes, I have lots of 1" aluminum square t-slot frame laying around). I re-enforced the top mount side door aluminum tool box, and placed it on an aluminum frame that replaced the bumper and bumper mounts. It only sticks out 12" more than the original bumper. There is a support rail behind the bikes to keep them from rubbing against the RV. The rear view camera is recessed in the tool box lid, and I added two 10watt backup/work lights and a license plate light to the box. Problem solved, total out of pocket about $475, and it adds a lot of storage for grungier outdoor things to the RV without them being in the way. And I think it all weighs less than the factor bumper, but it's not as sturdy either. We'll just have to be careful backing up, but adding the rear view camera (part of the "stereo" upgrade) should help.