What do you carry on your bumper?

[dierkz]

Box with all the gussets and supports weighs ~140kg. Contains 200kg of metallic type recovery gear like chains, Unimog sized shackles, pulleys, jacks, etc. Along with replacement of un-needed generator with fuel tank in front of rear axle (allows running with rear tanks empty) and switch from propane to induction cooktop (removal of 2x30 lb cylinders from behind rear axle), it improved weight distribution from 35/65 to 41/59. Beneficial effects on handling immediately noticeable.

View attachment 673496

That's one heavy front bumper load.

 

[charlieaarons]

I calculated the increase in moment of inertia around the rotational axis/mounting bolts (7x increase!!!), and had diagonal brackets installed towards the rear directly to frame to compensate. The bolts are more than adequate for direct vertical load: 6 x 20mm high grade bolts.
From just behind the top of the box to frame rails, which are 9 + 7mm thick in front. All welded brackets are bolted also for security.
The vehicle is designed for very heavy front implements like massive snowblowers to eat through dense 3m snow. GAWR front 7200kg; max current load 5100. Rear GAWR 8500; max load decreased from 8100 to 7300. Drives a lot better.
A lot of middle of night calculations in my head fueled by homemade coffee ice cream.