Is Moving the Spare Tire Necessary??

[docsnavely]

Plus, these tires weight a lot, I like to keep weight as low as possible to help center of gravity. Moving it from that location is something I strive against doing.

Same reason I haven't added a water tank to my roof rack.

You make a very good point. The only reason I want to move my spare up to the bumper in the future is to put either a water tank or integrated fuel tank in the spare well. That way I can ensure my weight is low and I’m making use of the space instead of gaining marginal to no extra clearance.

It looks sweet having a rear spare, but I’d rather spend money on functionality than instagram likes.

 

[Zahman]

Check out Spare Skid Plate - Skid Plates, Off Road Tires, 4x4 for an inexpensive way to protect your spare while off-roading. Beats buying a rear bumper or placing it on your roof.

 

[Ogre75]

so the thickness really isn't a problem for me when it comes to that clearance. Seems to tuck in there pretty well.

(couldn't help myself)

 

[Jetboy]

I'd also say no to rear tire unless it won't fit underneath. Otherwise underneath it's a better spot for it. If it came on the back, you'd be better off to move it underneath, not the other way around.

 

[Sp00ner]

I've been under the impression that the two main reasons for moving it was:

Bigger tires and it no longer fits
Access to the spare when you need it in an off road scenario.

 

[mteolus]

Check out Spare Skid Plate - Skid Plates, Off Road Tires, 4x4 for an inexpensive way to protect your spare while off-roading. Beats buying a rear bumper or placing it on your roof.

Actually pretty cool idea. You can also air down your spare tire so if it hits something it won't rip the tire.

 

[tjones2k9]

Actually pretty cool idea. You can also air down your spare tire so if it hits something it won't rip the tire.

Has anyone deflated a larger tire so it would stuff in there? Like a 285/75?

 

[rayofsi]

Has anyone deflated a larger tire so it would stuff in there? Like a 285/75?

not necessary.
i fit a 285/75 nitto ridge grappler at regular inflation, no KDSS though

 

[d1nguyen]

I keep my 33" in the stock spot and have done some crawling already without issues in moderate to difficult scenarios. If you need the clearance later then that will be the time to move it. I believe still enough room for 34" tire in that spare slot.

 

[Zahman]

No need in removing the spare or to purchase a swing out. Check out spareskidplate.com. They have a pretty cool spare tire skid plate.

 

[SpeedyKevin]

Has anyone deflated a larger tire so it would stuff in there? Like a 285/75?

Actually going to test if a 285/75 Yokohama M/T G003 fits there on a stock rim. Will report back on that. I do have kdss so that could make it a tight fit.

 

[maxp0wer]

I've been under the impression that the two main reasons for moving it was:

Bigger tires and it no longer fits
Access to the spare when you need it in an off road scenario.

Ditto this. It's hard to get to an undermounted spare if you are on bad terrain, mud, etc. This is also why you bring a stable platform for your jack.