Rear frame cross member

[pineneedle]

I don't know where to post this question, but here goes. I have doubts about the strength of the factory cross-member that closes off the frame on my '67 Scout 800. It looks to me to be bent up out of 12 ga. Steel. I intend to mount an after market rear bumper with a hitch and a swing-away tire carrier. Will this somewhat flimsy cross-member be able to take the stress? I am tempted to scrap it and replace it with a piece of 6 in. Channel. I am interested in your experiences and opinions.
Pineneedle

 

[RobertC]

Do not know anything about 800, but any tow hitch, bumper with hitch, etc should be mounted to the frame rails - not just a rear cross member.