Calculation for M416 Lid Weight (1 Viewer)

[77TLCFJ40]

I would like to order lift struts for my M416 build. Unfortunately, for many reasons I am unable to remove the lid and weigh it. I was able to get one measurement that, with your help, may allow a very close estimate for the lid’s total weight.

The lid is hinged on the tongue end of the trailer. The tailgate end of the lid weighs 90lbs when lifted just 2” off of the top lip of the M416. The lid is 74 5/8” long and 51 5/8 wide. Is there a calculation to get close to the total lid weight for the purpose of choosing the correct lift struts? Obviously, it takes 90lbs of force to lift the tailgate end of the lid.

Thanks for any and all help with this.

 

[eatSleepWoof]

Can you hang one of those baggage scales above the trailer, and hook the lid to it?

Something like this: Amazon product ASIN B00TKK5GN2

 

[77TLCFJ40]

That scale would cost as much or a little more than a pair of lift struts and all accessories.

Thanks, but I’m not willing to spend that on a scale I’ll use once. I’m so cheap. I definitely only want to buy lift struts once.

 

[eatSleepWoof]

That scale would cost as much or a little more than a pair of lift struts and all accessories.

Thanks, but I’m not willing to spend that on a scale I’ll use once. I’m so cheap. I definitely only want to buy lift struts once.

Hang a d-ring or something similar above the lid. Run a rope through the d-ring and attach it to the edge of the lid. Attach the other end of the rope to a 50lb weight. If the weight doesn't open the lid, replace it with a 60lb weight. Rinse and repeat until you find a balance between the weight on the string, and the weight of the lid.

 

[bkfj40]

Using simple freshman year statics and not getting into a distributed load calc, I’d assume the weight is 180 pounds

 

[77TLCFJ40]

Strong work @bkfj40.

Thanks!