Will Hidden Hitch Trailer Hitch # 87161 Fit Around the Spare Tire on a 2002 Ford Ranger Edge

Question:

Hello, I am interested in purchasing the Hidden Hitch part # 87161 for my 2002 Ford Ranger with the Edge package. I have been watching the installation videos you have posted, in particular, the one on youtube which installs this same part on the same truck I am driving. I do have a question about my spare tire though. Will I still be able to have my spare under the truck with this hitch? The installation videos seem to have a great deal of space once installation is complete and I thought maybe they have smaller tires underneath. I have also read some reviews where people who have installed this part have stated they have had to modify parts because it is too tight to install. Currently, I have a 235/75R15 underneath that came with the truck. I measured the gap between the bumper and the spare and there is only 2-1/2 between the two measured at metal behind bumper hitch to spare. Can you tell me if this part with fit my truck with such a small gap or if I am looking at a tight installation? Thank you for your help.

asked by: Justin

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Hidden Hitch regarding the fit of Trailer Hitch # 87161 on your 2002 Ford Ranger with the Edge package. He stated that they have not heard of any fit issues with your model truck fitting with the spare tire in place, as long as it is the factory spare tire and not a larger size. So he stated that it will fit. It would probably be easier to install the hitch by temporarily removing the spare tire, just so you have more room to work. But once the tire is back into place it will be a fairly snug fit without much room to spare.

I have included a link to the installation details for this trailer hitch below along with a couple of installation videos for reference.

If you plan on doing some towing, the recommended ball mount is # 2923 for use with ball # 19260 (1-7/8 inch diameter), # 19247 (2 inch diameter), or # 19287 (2-5/16 inch diameter). For trailer wiring, use T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4 Pole Trailer Connector, # 118344. I have included a link to the installation details below.

expert reply by: Michael H