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ZUKIWORLD Model Specific Suzuki Forum => Suzuki Sidekick, Vitara, Geo Tracker (Gen. 1 Platform) 1989-1998 => Topic started by: Mkhedr on December 11, 2011, 05:51:03 AM

Title: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: Mkhedr on December 11, 2011, 05:51:03 AM: Chaps,

Is there any way to install a full size spare wheel (31x10.5R15) without any bodylifts on OEM bumpers????
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: Drone637 on December 11, 2011, 10:59:35 AM: If you have access to a shop you could modify the spare tire mount, move it up several inches. That would be the best bet to make it work. You will also have to move up your third brake light though, or just remove it.
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: Mkhedr on December 11, 2011, 11:38:27 AM: Thanks for the reply. Any photos available?
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: Warn Industries on December 12, 2011, 08:54:08 AM: What's the largest that'll fit? I test-fit my 235/75/15 BFG AT (on a 15x7 wheel), and it fit. Is that the largets that'll go on w/o modificaiton?

- Andy
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: fuzzy1 on December 12, 2011, 12:55:09 PM: Quote from: Warn Industries on December 12, 2011, 08:54:08 AM
What's the largest that'll fit? I test-fit my 235/75/15 BFG AT (on a 15x7 wheel), and it fit. Is that the largets that'll go on w/o modificaiton?

- Andy

I'd have to say yes. I have the same tires & also 15x7 rims. Mine has ~1/4" clearance to the 3rd brakelight & ~1/2" to the bumper cover. Just fits.
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: Mkhedr on December 12, 2011, 01:50:45 PM: I have tried to install the 31x10.5R15. Wouldn't fit. I am thinking of cutting the original bolts on the mount and welding a new plate with the bolts shifted upwards around 1.5".
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: talonxracer on December 12, 2011, 03:46:14 PM: Make a simple plate adaptor out of thick steel plate and a few bolts(or actual studs) that merely moves the pattern upwards a few inches, there should be enough clearance to do that
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: nprecon on December 12, 2011, 03:57:53 PM: I like the idea of welding a new wheel mount plate over the existing one and 1 1/2" higher.

On my '91 Sidekick I actually mounted a round trailer brake light (designed for trailers) inside the opening of the hub in the spare tire carrier. So I had a 'third" tail light on my 91' when it wasn't even a requirement. It was tucked in and out of the way from damage and away from alot of moisture as well. Lasted as long as I had the truck and was still on it and working when I sold it.

Of course if you run a tire cover of any type... it wouldn't do you much good.

Come to think of it... that would be a good place to mount a white 'work light'/back-up light for the rear of my current Tracker as well!
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: talonxracer on December 18, 2011, 07:54:17 AM: Here is a adaptor ready made, from the UK, http://www.bits4vits.co.uk/store/vitara-/-x90/spare-wheel-spacer/prod_479.html (http://www.bits4vits.co.uk/store/vitara-/-x90/spare-wheel-spacer/prod_479.html)
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: suzukiboyoz on January 01, 2012, 05:09:08 PM: This is how I fitted my 30" MTR

(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d136/suzukiboyoz/Suzuki%20Vitara%204WD/sparewheelbracket.jpg)
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d136/suzukiboyoz/Suzuki%20Vitara%204WD/30mtr.jpg)
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: Drone637 on January 04, 2012, 10:08:18 AM: Looks good, as does the rest of the Vit. :)
Title: Re: Full size spare Wheel
Post by: Mkhedr on January 06, 2012, 11:26:27 PM: suzukiboyoz,

Many Thanks for the info here. Is it possible to send the plate dimensions?