The ideal location for mounting a spare tire on a utility trailer balances accessibility, security, and weight distribution. Ultimately, the best spot is typically on the trailer’s A-frame tongue near the coupler, utilizing a purpose-built spare tire mount.
Understanding Spare Tire Placement Importance
Mounting a spare tire might seem like a minor detail, but its placement significantly impacts several crucial factors. Incorrect placement can affect your trailer’s handling, accessibility of the tire in an emergency, and even its overall structural integrity. Prioritizing thoughtful placement is crucial for safety and convenience during travel. A properly mounted spare ensures you can quickly and efficiently handle a flat tire, minimizing downtime and potential hazards on the road.
Popular Mounting Locations and Their Pros & Cons
Choosing the right mounting location is a critical decision. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
A-Frame Tongue Mounting
- Description: Attaching the spare tire to the A-frame tongue near the trailer coupler, usually with a dedicated mount.
- Pros: Excellent accessibility, minimal impact on weight distribution if properly positioned, readily available mounts.
- Cons: Can obstruct access to the coupler, especially with larger tires; may require drilling into the trailer frame (check manufacturer’s instructions); exposed to the elements.
Trailer Side Mounting
- Description: Mounting the spare tire along the side of the trailer, typically using brackets or a pre-existing rail.
- Pros: Keeps the tongue clear, distributes weight more evenly across the trailer’s width.
- Cons: Can increase the trailer’s overall width, making maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging; potentially less accessible than tongue mounting; may interfere with trailer lights or other components.
Trailer Bed Mounting
- Description: Securing the spare tire directly within the trailer bed.
- Pros: Keeps the tire out of the elements (if the trailer has a cover), provides secure storage to deter theft.
- Cons: Takes up valuable cargo space, can be difficult to access quickly in an emergency, requires robust tie-down points.
Under-Trailer Mounting
- Description: Utilizing a custom-built or adapted mount to suspend the spare tire beneath the trailer bed.
- Pros: Frees up space in and around the trailer, provides a relatively hidden location.
- Cons: Low ground clearance can lead to damage, difficult access for tire changes, requires specialized mounting hardware, and potentially more maintenance due to road debris.
Choosing the Right Mounting Hardware
Selecting the appropriate mounting hardware is as important as choosing the location. Consider these factors:
- Material: Opt for heavy-duty steel or aluminum mounts to withstand the elements and the tire’s weight.
- Compatibility: Ensure the mount is compatible with your trailer’s frame and the spare tire’s bolt pattern.
- Security: Choose a mount that offers locking mechanisms or can be secured with a padlock to deter theft.
- Ease of Installation: Look for mounts that are easy to install and remove, allowing for quick tire changes.
Installation Best Practices
Proper installation is paramount for safety and longevity.
- Consult the Manufacturer: Always refer to the mount manufacturer’s instructions for specific installation guidelines.
- Proper Drilling: If drilling is required, use the correct drill bit size and apply rust-inhibiting paint to prevent corrosion.
- Secure Fastening: Use high-quality bolts, nuts, and washers, and tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.
- Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect the mount for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage, and replace any worn components immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Will mounting the spare tire on the tongue affect my trailer’s handling?
Yes, it can. Adding weight to the tongue increases tongue weight, which generally improves stability if done correctly. However, too much tongue weight can negatively impact the towing vehicle’s handling and rear suspension. Aim for a tongue weight of approximately 10-15% of the trailer’s gross weight. Proper placement of the tire on the tongue, closer to the trailer bed than the coupler, minimizes this effect.
FAQ 2: Can I just throw the spare tire in the trailer bed?
While technically possible, it’s not ideal. An unsecured tire becomes a dangerous projectile in the event of a sudden stop or accident. Additionally, it takes up valuable cargo space. Always secure the spare tire if you choose to store it in the bed, using robust tie-down straps or a dedicated storage container.
FAQ 3: Is it okay to weld a custom spare tire mount to my trailer?
Welding is an option, but it should only be performed by a qualified welder. Incorrect welding can weaken the trailer frame. Moreover, welding can void any warranties. Consider bolting a prefabricated mount instead for ease of maintenance and compliance.
FAQ 4: What size spare tire mount do I need?
The mount should be appropriately sized for your spare tire’s diameter and width. Most manufacturers specify the tire sizes their mounts are designed for. Consult your tire’s specifications and the mount’s documentation to ensure compatibility.
FAQ 5: How can I prevent my spare tire from being stolen?
Theft is a real concern. Use a locking spare tire mount or secure the tire with a heavy-duty chain and padlock. Consider painting the tire a bright color or etching an identifying mark on it to deter theft and aid in recovery. Wheel locks, similar to those used on cars, can also be effective.
FAQ 6: Should I cover my spare tire to protect it from the elements?
Yes, covering the spare tire is highly recommended, particularly if it’s mounted in an exposed location. UV rays, rain, and road debris can degrade the tire’s rubber and shorten its lifespan. A tire cover provides added protection and keeps the tire looking its best.
FAQ 7: How often should I check the spare tire’s pressure?
Check the spare tire’s pressure at least every six months, or before any long trips. A flat spare tire is useless in an emergency. Inflate it to the maximum pressure recommended on the tire sidewall.
FAQ 8: Can I mount the spare tire on the trailer’s rear bumper?
While possible, mounting on the rear bumper is generally not recommended. It can significantly alter the trailer’s weight distribution, potentially leading to dangerous swaying or instability. The bumper is often not strong enough to support the tire’s weight, and it increases the trailer’s overall length.
FAQ 9: Are there any legal requirements regarding spare tire placement on trailers?
Specific legal requirements vary by state or region. However, it’s generally required that the spare tire doesn’t obstruct lights, license plates, or other essential components. Check your local regulations to ensure compliance.
FAQ 10: What tools do I need to change a tire on my utility trailer?
Essential tools include a lug wrench that fits your trailer’s lug nuts, a jack that’s rated for the trailer’s weight, wheel chocks to prevent rolling, and a tire pressure gauge. Consider adding a breaker bar for stubborn lug nuts and gloves to protect your hands.
FAQ 11: Is it better to have a matching spare tire or a smaller, temporary spare?
A matching spare tire is always preferable. It allows you to continue your journey without limitations on speed or distance. Temporary spares are designed for emergency use only and typically have speed and distance restrictions.
FAQ 12: What should I do with the flat tire after installing the spare?
If the flat tire is repairable, take it to a reputable tire shop for inspection and repair. If it’s beyond repair, dispose of it properly at a tire recycling facility. Never leave the damaged tire on the side of the road.