Spare Tire

[Mel]

Hi there,
I just got my T4R yesterday ('95). The spare tire was in the back when I bought it, and I want to place it elsewhere so there is more room inside. I know that the spare is supposed to go underneath, but nothing came with the vehicle to actually hold a spare down there. I hate having a spare underneath anyway - so, I'm wondering, has anyone ever put the spare on the roof? The vehicle came with what looks like a standard roof rack, is there anything manufactured for putting a spare on top? I've seen something manufactured by Thule but am not sure if it would work with the rack. Thanks a lot for your help.
Mel

 

[fourwd1]

H'mm, a 75 lb object strapped to the roof. Sounds like a potentially lethal projectile in a collision.

 

[Mel]

Could be, unless it's bolted down. I suppose no more dangerous (and maybe less so) than my kayak strapped on top? I dunno. So if on top is a bad idea, where do I get the bits and pieces to put it back underneath where it's meant to go? (Which gives me memories of lying in the mud in 100 degree heat trying to get the spare out from underneath a Hilux so I can prove it isn't packed with explosives. This is one reason I have an aversion. )

 

[KidVermicious]

Could be, unless it's bolted down. I suppose no more dangerous (and maybe less so) than my kayak strapped on top? I dunno. So if on top is a bad idea, where do I get the bits and pieces to put it back underneath where it's meant to go? (Which gives me memories of lying in the mud in 100 degree heat trying to get the spare out from underneath a Hilux so I can prove it isn't packed with explosives. This is one reason I have an aversion. )

Tire on the roof is vulnerable to weather and UV exposure, raises the COG, and increases wind resistance significantly. I know lots of folks do, but I don't think it's wise.

Somebody mentioned in another thread, you can still get the undercarriage tire holder assembly new from Toyota. Or find a donor rig being parted, or in a junkyard.

Or get a swingout tire carrier on the rear.

Or carry fix-a-flat, a repair kit, and a 12v compressor and ditch the spare entirely.

 

[Mel]

Tire on the roof is vulnerable to weather and UV exposure, raises the COG, and increases wind resistance significantly. I know lots of folks do, but I don't think it's wise.

Somebody mentioned in another thread, you can still get the undercarriage tire holder assembly new from Toyota. Or find a donor rig being parted, or in a junkyard.

Or get a swingout tire carrier on the rear.

Or carry fix-a-flat, a repair kit, and a 12v compressor and ditch the spare entirely.

Thanks, those are all great ideas. Also, did not think about weather wear and tear if it were on top. Cheers!

 

[Lil Red Yarder]

Since you don't like it underneath and on top isn't the greatest idea, try looking for a tailgate mount. You should be able to find one in a wrecking yard .

 

[n8buddy]

the stock toyota tailgate mounted tire carriers require bracing inside the body, just so you know before going out and buying one. It can be done but its not easy. There is a thread on yotatech about it.

 

[T?@\7]

hitch mounted tire carrier

 

[Mel]

So, I was reading that if you mount one on the tailgate you will also have to add bracing? Hitch mounted - another interesting thought. I've decided to leave it for the time being and make sure all the mechanical issues are taken care of first...of which I have a feeling there are going to be many.

 

[illzoni]

I just finished installing a new receiver hitch/rear bumper. Will post a full write-up later. It includes 2" receivers on each end of the bumper so that I can add items such as a custom tire carrier if/when I get around to it.

 

[Mel]

Very interested to see what you did!