Using a Stake Pocket Spare Tire Carrier on an Aluminum Trailer

Updated 04/16/2026 | Published 04/09/2026

Question:

Any concerns with this mount being used on an aluminum trailer?

asked by: Ben F

Expert Reply:

Hi Ben, that’s a great question, and you’re right to think about it ahead of time because aluminum trailers can flex more than steel, especially when you hang weight off the side like a spare tire.

The Brophy part # SPTC will work on an aluminum trailer, but theres a few things to keep in mind. One thing to consider is how strong that stake pocket area is. If it’s well supported and tied into the frame, you’ll likely be in good shape. If they are not, some customers will add triangular gussets or additional aluminum braces to minimize flex and strengthen the connection point.

It also needs to be installed properly to avoid galvanic corrosion between the dissimilar metals. To help prevent corrosion, you’ll want to isolate the steel from the aluminum. The simplest way to do that is to line the inside of the stake pocket or wrap the insert on the spare tire carrier. A thin rubber strip, adhesive-backed rubber tape, or even a layer of heavy duty electrical tape on the outside of that insert works well. You don’t need anything thick, just enough to prevent direct metal to metal contact while still letting it slide in snug and prevent corossion.

What do you haul? Boat, ATV or work gear?

expert reply by: Heather A

Jimmy

4/16/2026

This is a great product and works well. Easy to install and very rigged to accommodate the spare tire. I have it on a 2023 Rice car trailer and have seen no issues with it. I believe with the proper dissimilar metals, the proper treatment to avoid corrosion would not be an issue.