spare tire - storage
New User
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: San Diego
spare tire - storage
Anybody ever decide to take their spare tire mount (Gate) off of the rear hatch door and place the spare tire inside like some of the other models. I have already removed the spare tire gate off of my rear and I am keeping the tire in the back laying flat. I want to prop it upright like the other models . My 1988 XLT 2wd has the cut out in the rear seat on the left side to accomodate the inside storage of the spare. But, do I need an additional mount or side panel (plastic - red), or will I have to continue rigging it with buingie cords??? any advice will help.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 13,873
Likes: 3
From: Atlanta GA
spare tire - storage
I believe only 85 or under had the spare tire stored inside, on the left, and it was a mini-spare at that. Since the cargo area is not 27 inches deep, you can not even lay a p235/75r15 down flat, and I think a P235 hits the rear seat when installed in the mini-spare holder. Which might not be strong enough to secure a fullsized spare in a 55 mph front end collision.
IMHO The safest way to store the tire, besides on the tailgate, is on a sturdy safari type roof rack.
IMHO The safest way to store the tire, besides on the tailgate, is on a sturdy safari type roof rack.
Senior User
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
From: Pittsburgh, PA
spare tire - storage
i have my spare (235/75/r15)laying flat in the cargo area. If you offset it a bit it will fit partly inside the indented part of the liftgate and just about touches the rear seat.
