Why Install a Side Spare Tire Mount?
A side spare tire mount is an external attachment designed to hold a full-sized spare wheel securely on the exterior of a vehicle, trailer, or RV. This positioning makes the spare tire readily accessible during emergencies, preventing the need to unload cargo or access difficult undercarriage storage. Understanding this mechanism is fundamental for any vehicle owner prioritizing preparedness and convenience.
- Externally secures spare tire for easy access.
- Frees up internal storage space.
- Essential for emergency roadside situations.
- Prevents cargo shifting or unloading needs.
Core Benefits of External Tire Storage
The primary consideration for installing a side spare tire mount is accessibility. When a tire blows out, especially on a busy highway or remote route, speed and ease of access are paramount. Unlike under-vehicle or in-trunk spares, a side-mounted tire requires no special tools beyond a jack and lug wrench, and no re-arranging of contents. This physical advantage is critical for swift roadside assistance.
Furthermore, many vehicles, particularly RVs and utility trailers, have limited internal storage. A side spare tire mount effectively repurposes exterior space, keeping the cabin or cargo area clear for gear, supplies, or passengers. This efficient use of available real estate is a significant advantage for long-haul travelers and commercial operators alike.
Our analysis indicates that the perceived security of having a full-size spare externally mounted often outweighs the minor aesthetic considerations for many users.
Such precision is paramount when selecting a mount that matches your tire size and vehicle load capacity.
Choosing the Right Side Spare Tire Mount
What are the key factors to consider when selecting a side spare tire mount? Load capacity, material durability, and compatibility with your specific vehicle or trailer frame are non-negotiable. The mount must comfortably support the weight of your spare tire, often exceeding 50 pounds, without bending or failing. Materials like heavy-gauge steel, often powder-coated for rust resistance, are standard for robust performance.
Understanding this principle is fundamental: your spare tire mount must integrate seamlessly with your existing setup. For example, a spare tire boat trailer mount will have different mounting points than a spare tire mount for RV applications. The latter might need to attach to an existing chassis component or a custom-welded bracket, while the former often bolts directly to the trailer frame's tongue or side rail.
Consider the types of spare tire holders available:
- Vertical Mounts: These attach directly to a flat surface, like the side of an enclosed trailer or RV, holding the tire upright. They are common for utility trailer spare tire mounts.
- Hinged/Swing-Away Mounts: Often seen on RVs or larger vehicles, these swing outward, allowing access to rear doors or storage compartments.
- Frame-Mounted Brackets: These bolt onto the trailer frame, typically near the front, providing a robust mounting point. A spare tire hanger for trailer often falls into this category.
A correctly chosen and installed mount is invisible until needed, but critical when it's called upon.
Verify the exact bolt pattern and lug configuration your spare wheel uses to ensure a perfect fit with the mount's studs.
Installation and Maintenance Best Practices
How do you ensure your side spare tire mount functions reliably for years? Proper installation is the first, and most critical, step. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely. This typically involves drilling holes in the mounting surface (trailer frame, RV wall) and securing the mount with heavy-duty bolts, washers, and locking nuts. Ensure the chosen location provides adequate clearance for the tire and doesn't obstruct necessary vehicle functions.
Our analysis indicates that using a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification is crucial for any tire-related installation, including the spare.
Regular maintenance prevents common issues. Periodically inspect the mount for signs of rust, corrosion, or loose fasteners. Check that the tire itself remains properly inflated and is securely held by the mount's locking mechanism. A loose tire can cause damage to the vehicle, the mount, or pose a significant safety hazard. For specific applications, like a Can Am X3 spare tire mount or a UTV spare tire mount, these checks are even more vital due to the demanding environments these vehicles often encounter.
It is imperative to acknowledge that the lifespan of any external mount depends heavily on consistent, albeit simple, upkeep. Even a simple check before a long trip can prevent a roadside failure.
Apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound to the mount's studs before attaching the spare tire to simplify future removal, especially in corrosive environments like coastal areas.