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Didn’t think I’d like it, but came across some orphaned Thule bars and thought I’d give it a go. I have a carriage bolt in the center and angle iron across the bars in addition to the straps. May be overkill.
Pretty easy to get my 31s on and off the back myself. Also, plenty of room for my Plano box too. May keep it for a while. 😛
i didn’t realize how much room this thing was taking in the back hatch til now. 😳
Last edited by Lynn Gräber; Apr 8, 2021 at 05:08 PM.
you were able to fit that wheel in the back? was it laying down? My stock wheel comes within an inch of the tailgate structure, I was pretty sure my 31's would not fit but didn't try it
they definitely take up alot of room in the back. My 31 fits in the stock location just barely. I had to do a few tricks I read here years ago. Is say its easily 25% of the rear storage area
you were able to fit that wheel in the back? was it laying down? My stock wheel comes within an inch of the tailgate structure, I was pretty sure my 31's would not fit but didn't try it
my 31 fit in the spare tire spot in the back when my headliner was out and if I left the one side of the seat back unlatched. Now that my redone headliner is back in, no go. :/ definitely feels like it takes more space laying on the floor.
Do y’all have any experience with whether I’d get a little better gas mileage by having the spare more forward or more toward the rear? Seems like it should be better toward the rear right? Also hella lot easier to get it on and off.
For wind drag, yeah, in the back might be better. plus in the back will give a bit more weight over the back wheels for traction. Id add something to that wingnut, that rattles loose and that tire can fly off and kill someone. The angle used is pretty thin shet metal, with holes, Id worry about that folding too, causing the wing nut to loosen. At least use a double nut up there to better secure the tire from a loose nut. is the wheel being held by a plastic center cap? why not use the wheel lug holes for mounting?
I maybe over reacting, but I like super secure mounts. The one shown is marginal from what I see.
For wind drag, yeah, in the back might be better. plus in the back will give a bit more weight over the back wheels for traction. Id add something to that wingnut, that rattles loose and that tire can fly off and kill someone. The angle used is pretty thin shet metal, with holes, Id worry about that folding too, causing the wing nut to loosen. At least use a double nut up there to better secure the tire from a loose nut. is the wheel being held by a plastic center cap? why not use the wheel lug holes for mounting?
I maybe over reacting, but I like super secure mounts. The one shown is marginal from what I see.
appreciate the input. Some great ideas. Definitely going to double up a few things. For now, I have been also strapping it down (first photo) when I’m actually in motion in addition to the hardware in these last photos.
Finally put the tire on the roof.
