Can E-Track Mounted Spare Tire Carrier be Used on the Outside of a Trailer

Updated 10/10/2012 | Published 10/09/2012

Question:

I have a small utility trailer that has E-Track rails welded to both the inside and outside walls. I want to mount my spare tire on the outside wall, but item RA-16HST E-track spare tire carrier states it is for enclosed trailers. Is this because it is unsafe for outside mounting in case it falls off or is it because it is not safe due to its easy removal theft? I am no concerned with theft of the spare, but I dont want it to fall off in traffic either. Thank You for your help.

asked by: Neil W

Expert Reply:

The spare tire carrier for E-Tracks, # RA-16HST, would hold and secure a spare outside of a trailer but it would not be ideal. The issue is that there will be some movement of the tire since the E-Track connection is not tight. It is secure, but there would be some bouncing.

What I recommend is a frame mount spare tire carrier, see link. You can bolt these to the frame nice and tight and secure the spare to the carrier tight as well so you will not get near the amount of movement that you would with the E-Track mount.

expert reply by: Michael H