Metal type and thickness for bracing?

[PJK]

Making an X brace to box my frame. Truck is HEAVY, 4700 aprox.

My question is what material and thickness do I use?

I prefer to use channel or square tube over round stock if it will do the same job.

Could someone tell me what size and thickness will carry the load. I don't to overkill it and adding too much weight.

Will the smaller sq tube 1"X1" by .120 work if I keep the span under 36 inches?

Thanks..

Pat

[Mathius]

Making an X brace to box my frame. Truck is HEAVY, 4700 aprox.

My question is what material and thickness do I use?

I prefer to use channel or square tube over round stock if it will do the same job.

Could someone tell me what size and thickness will carry the load. I don't to overkill it and adding too much weight.

Will the smaller sq tube 1"X1" by .120 work if I keep the span under 36 inches?

Thanks..

Pat

If you're using tubing, 1/8" is the minimum I'd go on any kind of braces because tubing is boxed, but that's just me. Some guys will go as small as 16 gauge. Obviously if you use a c-shaped design or angle where it's not a boxed design, the strength will probably be less.

But given the choice, I'd use the same material thickness as the factory crossmembers or frame just to be safe.

I'm no engineer though, so don't try to be taking me to court if you follow my advice and it fails. ;)

Mathius