Jim
Seasonal RV’er
Ready to Camp!
Posts: 210
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Post by Jim on Jun 20, 2021 11:18:59 GMT -5
Robertl,
The Sonic has a BAL NXG frame, so my thought is to consult with them and see if they have a suggestion about bumper and mounting options for you.
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marjim
Weekender RV’er
Retired EE, Vietnam Vet, God, Faith, Family & Flag. St. Louis area
Posts: 99
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Post by marjim on Jun 26, 2021 20:35:37 GMT -5
Hello Roberti,
I have the same trailer. My 4" box tube is 8ft long. Mine is not damaged but there is overweld in the ID of one end. When welding the box tube bumper to the frame, the shop got the welder too hot. The overweld extends into the ID of the box tube. Therefore the ID is rendered useless for storing the black sewer hose because of that mistake. I can use it to store poles and other long things. My spare tire is also mounted via tube brackets to the middle of the bumper.
To replace the exact bumper (like stock) you will need 11ga minimum 4"x4" x 8' box tube. Steel is expensive in today's market. from $3.50 to $5 per foot depending on who and where you get it from . If you want to replace it to look stock, then get the 4" box tube ($187-$260) and have a welder make brackets on the outside to fit your trailer frame. That way your tube will not be obstructed and you can use the inside for the black hose. (If you can find 8-10ga box then you will have a much sturdier bumper and can have the best of both worlds.) my attachment is from a local STL steel supplier and its 7'6" ,but more important it has 1/4" thick wall. 
With no ID obstruction, the stock bumper does a better job of holding black sewer hose than as an actual bumper. Think hard if you want to replace it as a bumper or just square tube. On one hand you could buy old round pipe 4" dia (like old clothes line poles) wire brush and rustoleum paint it. Then have brackets made and have it welded, that would be a great bumper and still hold your spare. Stay away from galvanized or Stainless. Its expensive and requires a Tig or Mig welder rather than good ole stick.
My preference would be to use an old, round, steel thick pipe scavenged from a steel yard. Its stronger, thicker, will survive better in a low MPH bump and easier to weld things too. I would also weld a gusseted bracket and permanently mount the spare tire. If you are still wanting to store black hose, then I suggest you might look into thick wall PVC pipe (5"dia) so your black hose and fittings will go in easy and the pipe can be clean and won't rust.
Hopes this helps your decision!
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