Packing a Spare

[davidfkon]

I've only done some scenic off roading (getting there though) and was wondering how you folk w/out racks or swing-away carriers pack your spare in the back. Securing it laying doen in the back works, but taks a lot of space . . .

 

[CMGRover]

Usually just have someone hold it I bet...

 

[davidfkon]

At least the rig gets DIRTY!!! (well sorta . . .)

 

[nwoods]

David, I lash mine to the tie down points in the rear. I place it vertically up against the passenger side bulkhead, and use two ratchet (not cam lock) tie down straps, one fore and one aft of the tire. It is a secure hold, relatively out of the way, and easily accessible should you need it on the trail.

This is not a very good picture, but it might give you the general idea:

 

[davidfkon]

The lashdown points are low . . . doesn't it tilt if I don't pack it tight with gear?

 

[nwoods]

The lashdown points are low . . . doesn't it tilt if I don't pack it tight with gear?

That's why I use Ratchet straps. Start at the forward tie down point, loop the strap outside the tire (towards center of vehicle) and up through the center hole of the rim, and back down to the same forward tie down point on the inside of the tire, and then tighten them up nice and snug. Do the forward one first, so that it pulls the tire up tight against the back of the seat. Then do the rear tie down point the same way. I have thousands of miles off rigorous off road activity with the tire stowed this way. No problems.

 

[davidfkon]

most excellent.
Thanks.

 

[Team Jeff]

Although I don't keep my spare in the cargo area, I think this would work well for keeping it secure. It took about 20 min to chop the track to the correct length & drill the holes for mounting - super easy mod that had proven to be extremely useful!

 

[nwoods]

Nice idea using the existing hardpoints for the hold downs. I use those same tracks in my Jeep. Very handy indeed.

 

[davidfkon]

Looks really useful . . .
Where does one get the "track"? . . . is it "whackable" w/a hacksaw or do I need to go buy REAL MAN tools?