Let’s Dive into Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long
The Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long isn’t exactly the sort of product that sets your pulse racing, but for those who haul trailers, secure equipment, or need a reliable mounting solution, it’s an unsung hero. Reese, a name synonymous with towing and cargo management, offers this bracket and clamp as a seemingly simple solution, but as any experienced hauler knows, the devil is in the details – and the durability. This long bracket and clamp promises to be a robust solution for a myriad of applications, boasting durable materials and easy installation.
My journey to this particular product stemmed from a frustrating experience with flimsy, unreliable mounting hardware that consistently failed under the stress of off-road adventures. I needed a rock-solid solution to secure auxiliary fuel tanks to my overland rig, and the Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long appeared to be a promising contender. Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive: the bracket and clamp felt substantial, with a reassuring heft that hinted at quality construction.
While I considered other options, including custom-fabricated brackets and universal mounting kits from brands like Buyers Products and Curt Manufacturing, the Reese offering stood out due to its seemingly straightforward design and the brand’s reputation. I picked this over other universal style options because it looks beefier than most. My first impression was cautiously optimistic, I was excited at the prospects.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test for the Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long was during the installation of my auxiliary fuel tanks on my heavily modified Jeep Wrangler. This involved mounting the tanks to the frame rails, requiring precise placement and a secure hold. The installation, as Reese claimed, was surprisingly quick and easy.
The bracket and clamp performed admirably under the initial load, exhibiting no signs of slippage or bending. I even put it to the test on a very bumpy dirt road. The ease of use was noteworthy, requiring only basic tools and a minimal amount of fuss.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of rigorous use, including multiple off-road expeditions and extended highway driving, the Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long has proven its mettle. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the bracket remains firmly in place. A little rust, but that’s expected in the salty air.
The finish has held up remarkably well, resisting corrosion despite exposure to mud, water, and road salt. Maintenance has been minimal, consisting of occasional cleaning and tightening of the clamp bolts. It outperforms my previous mounting solutions by a significant margin.
Breaking Down the Features of Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long
Specifications
The Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long boasts the following key specifications:
- Durable Construction: Composed of durable and quality materials for longevity. This is crucial for withstanding the rigors of outdoor use and heavy loads.
- Black Finish: Color: Black, providing a clean and professional look while also offering some degree of corrosion resistance.
- Easy Installation: Installation is quick and easy, saving time and effort.
- Universal Fit: Designed to fit a wide range of applications, making it versatile and adaptable.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the bracket’s strength, durability, and ease of use. The durable materials ensure that it can withstand significant stress and environmental factors, while the easy installation simplifies the mounting process.
Performance & Functionality
The Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a secure and stable mounting platform for a variety of equipment. The bracket’s robust design and the clamp’s strong grip ensure that whatever is being mounted remains firmly in place, even under harsh conditions.
While the design is straightforward, it’s undeniably effective. The bracket and clamp meet my expectations. I think that for the price point, it does great!
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long is commendable. The materials used are sturdy and well-finished, and the bracket feels solid and well-constructed. The design is simple and functional, prioritizing strength and ease of use over aesthetics.
The weight is appropriate for its intended purpose. This contributes to the bracket’s overall stability. There is no learning curve, it’s a simple clamp!
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and durable materials, the Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long is likely to last for many years with proper care. The finish is resistant to corrosion, and the bracket itself is designed to withstand significant stress and wear. Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving occasional cleaning and tightening of the clamp bolts.
Occasional lubrication of the threads can also help to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. The steel used can rust, but it is easy to paint!
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long is a fairly basic product and doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, its universal design makes it compatible with a wide range of mounting hardware, allowing for customization based on specific needs. For example, users can add rubber isolators to reduce vibration or use different types of bolts and nuts to fine-tune the clamping force.
The bracket can also be easily modified to accommodate different mounting configurations. It is after all, just a steel bracket!
Pros and Cons of Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long
Pros
- Provides a very secure and stable mounting platform for various equipment.
- Simple and straightforward installation process saves time and effort.
- With durable construction and resistant finish to corrosion ensures longevity.
- Designed for universal fit makes the bracket versatile for different applications.
- Affordable price offers great value.
Cons
- Finish could be more resistant to rust in harsh environments.
- Limited customization options without modifications.
Who Should Buy Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long?
The Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long is perfect for individuals who need a reliable and versatile mounting solution for trailers, trucks, and other equipment. Those needing to mount auxiliary fuel tanks, toolboxes, or other accessories will find this bracket to be an invaluable asset. It’s also well-suited for off-road enthusiasts, overlanders, and anyone who requires a robust mounting solution that can withstand harsh conditions.
Those seeking a highly refined or aesthetically pleasing mounting solution should skip this product. This is a functional piece of hardware, not a decorative accessory. Must-have accessories include a good set of wrenches and sockets.
Conclusion on Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long
In summary, the Reese 118136 Mounting Bracket & Clamp Long is a reliable, durable, and versatile mounting solution that delivers on its promises. The price is absolutely justified. This is a worthwhile investment for anyone who values quality and dependability.
I would personally recommend it to anyone in need of a solid mounting solution for their equipment or vehicles. Don’t hesitate to secure your gear with Reese.