Question about bows

[hwcurtice]

So I was able to get a bow and canvas kit for my trailer.

I have a questions about the bows. They all have a metal part attached on the legs with two nut and bolt sets, but I'm not seeing what they actually do. The bow already sit right on the rails. They don't look like they clamp onto anything.

What are they for?

Real reason I'm asking? I'm missing one and I need nuts and bolts for some of the others. So, do I really need them?

 

[MWMULES]

If you are referring to the thin strip of metal the wraps around the wood. It keeps the wood from getting eaten up from vibration in the metal pocket going down the road. A picture would really help.

 

[hwcurtice]

No, these are metal bows.

Pictures.... mmmm wheres my camera....?

 

[srodocker]

yea pics will help heheh

 

[hwcurtice]

Here you can see them all side by side, with the metal part and one without.

You people and wanting pictures.... Sheesh....

 

[MWMULES]

These

 

[srodocker]

not familiar with those bows

 

[CARNAC]

The metal strip around the outside keeps them from sliding on down inside the braket on sideracks. Without it, when the weight of the canvas and any snow load is added, you might not be able to pull the rack back out when you need to.

 

[papercu]

You'll need to find some carriage bolts, at very least for the ones in contact with the canvas. Those square head will wear holes very quickly in a cover. Wayne

 

[hwcurtice]

The metal strip around the outside keeps them from sliding on down inside the braket on sideracks. Without it, when the weight of the canvas and any snow load is added, you might not be able to pull the rack back out when you need to.

So what you're saying is, I need to find that missing one...

Anyone got a spare?

hmmm or ask the guy I got it from and see if he still has it.

I don't think I have to worry about carriage bolts on the sides, because the canvas doesn't rub there. The top already has them.

 

[Pawnshop]

If you can't find another one you can have one made. Take one of your existing pieces to a sheet metal shop, they should be able to replicate it easily. That part is pretty much necessary!