How to Perform a Flawless Spare Wheel Mount?

A UTE, caravan or SUV are perfect for installing the spare wheel outside the vehicle’s interior. There are many benefits to this idea. This is why so many people decide to do it – from increasing the weight distribution to preserving space to improving the aesthetics.

Many people want the rear tray free from anything. If you own an SUV, you want a free trunk to store the luggage, so the wheel should go outside. There are various accessories for UTEs, and combining them is crucial for getting the perfect package.

When deciding to perform the spare wheel mount yourself you must know several things. Perfectly finishing all steps will lead you to a job well done. In this blog post, we talk about the several steps and show you what you must do. Follow up and learn more about it, but first, check what tools are essential for the job.

What tools do you need for the job

In most cases, the spare wheel mount is done with a kit that includes brackets, bolts, nuts, and other things. Aside from this, you will need wrenches and sockets, a jack, screwdrivers, measuring tape, and the wheel itself.

You might also need some other things depending on the type of vehicle and the additional things you must perform. However, these tools are essential for getting a great job done.

Decide where will you mount the wheel

There are various locations for mounting the spare wheel. Decide where the wheel will go before starting any work. The options usually include the rear of the vehicle or the roof, but some cases include the front parts if possible.

You will need a different kit and work, depending on the location. It’s more complicated to mount the spare wheel on the roof than it is in the rear. However, with the right tools and items, nothing is too difficult, especially if you’re skilled and experienced enough.

Make sure the area is ready to work on

When you decide where the wheel is going, you must pay special attention to that location. Clean it from any dirt, dust, or parts that will give you problems while working. The brackets can only go where nothing else is in the way.

Position the bracket

Once you decide where the wheel is going, it is time to position the brackets. Take the tools and place them on a holder or the ground. Ensure they are close enough so you can take them quickly whenever you need them.

Measure precisely and see where you need to drill the holes. Once you have everything set, it’s time to check the tools and the items needed for the job. If everything seems right, start drilling.

Secure the bracket

When the holes are ready, you should start mounting the brackets. The brackets must be perfectly secured, to ensure precision and strength. Place the bolts and the nuts and install the brackets.

Once you’re done make sure there’s no chance for them to get loose or fall off the vehicle. Remember that they must hold the weight of the wheel, so you must not leave anything to chance.

Place the wheel on the bracket

The next step is the obvious one. If you secured the brackets perfectly and everything is ready, it’s time to place the wheel on the bracket, or better said, to mount the wheel. All wheels have holes, perfect for securing, so ensure they fit.

Use the bolts and the nuts to put them on the bracket. That’s how you will successfully secure the entire wheel. Tighten everything perfectly, and you’re at the very end of the entire project.

Secure the wheel and check the stability

Once you screw all the items and tighten every little part, you should check if the wheel is secured and isn’t going to fall at one point. Do this by simply trying to take the wheel off with your hands.

The wheel must feel like it’s part of the bodywork of the vehicle. While driving, you will have multiple situations in which the wheel will be put to the test, so it has to be perfectly secured.

Take it for a test drive

The best way to be sure that the wheel is perfectly mounted is to put it to an actual test. Turn on the key and take the vehicle for a drive around the block. Don’t go too far, and don’t accelerate too much. If there is a problem, you want to experience it without too many problems.

If everything seems fine for short periods and on short distances, it’s probably safe to go on longer trips and have the wheel mounted regularly. Having it mounted means it will be accessible whenever you need it.