When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Crap! I got looking at this picture
And think I see why the spare tire cross member lug wrench lift point hits the hitch
From the looks of it the side frame plates could had been flipped side to side so the plates sit out farther and that lift point would then clear.
I also see on the picture you posted they sit out farther and the spare tire is in place.
I may need to look this over and see how I feel on swapping it around
Dave ----
And think I see why the spare tire cross member lug wrench lift point hits the hitch
Dave ----
The one I'm looking at just clears the bottom of the bumper. But it is a 7" step bumper. On the lift point for the spare tire bracket, it's tucked in the corner but low enough that the lug where you insert the wrench is lower than the hitch frame. The"ears" on the frame mounting brackets, as you can see in the photo above, are pointed inward. It is very similar to the one you have and probably a multi application piece too.
All the hitches I have installed on these trucks, I have had to drill the frame. I found it easiest to get it bolted up with the ones that line up, and then take a big drill and sit it on top of a floor jack and slowly jack the drill into the frame. Be sure to wear gloves, the hot metal chips are hard on bare hands holding the drill. I always use 6 bolts.
The one I'm looking at just clears the bottom of the bumper. But it is a 7" step bumper. On the lift point for the spare tire bracket, it's tucked in the corner but low enough that the lug where you insert the wrench is lower than the hitch frame. The"ears" on the frame mounting brackets, as you can see in the photo above, are pointed inward. It is very similar to the one you have and probably a multi application piece too.
That little nib that the lug wrench fits into hits the part bolted to the frame on my truck, lug wrench was not even in the cross member.
I am sure if I turn them frame brackets so they point in the nib will clear.
I will have to get under and check it out better but I think next time I have a 2 days off from work in case I run into issues I will turn them around.
I can also look to see if it can be tucked in a little with out to much trouble.
Dave ----
Yesterday I was able to swap the hitch frame plates from side to side so the bolt ears are pointing in.
This moved the plates out wider and the tire cross member now fits.
The lift nib just hits the hitch with the tire up tight to the tank so it is good.
I also moved the hitch back under the truck more so it dose not hang out beyond the bumper as much.
When I first mounted the hitch I did not have the bumper mounted so did not know how far out the hitch sat till I got everything on the truck.
I like where it is sitting now.
Dave ----
This Hennessey Takes the Expedition Tremor's Off-Roading Capability to the Next Level
Slideshow: The VelociRaptor Expedition gains a lift, upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, and trail-ready equipment while retaining the stock 440-horsepower EcoBoost V6.
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.
