How to fit a 33 inch oversized tire underneath with hitch

[ODSTbee]

My 2005 LX 470 has a hitch that limits spare tire size to less than 32". The limit is from the panhard to the center of the hitch. I have 285/70R17 tires... 32.71 inches. First, here are some pics

It's welded on which defeats my current tools and skillset.

Here are the options I've put together:

a. Cam/ratchet strap the spare inside standing up [like bellsport fab tire carrier, but $5 instead of $500]
b. trim the hitch carrier
c. remove the hitch carrier
d. remove the hitch carrier, aftermarket bumper with hitch and tuck the tire underneath

I have been doing option (a) for a month. It works great, but not what I want long term due to the interior space and weight placement. I'd like to keep a quality hitch since I see a cross country pull of a u-haul trailer in my future. Plus, the hitch makes a great rear slider.

I'm starting to think I might need to find a fabricator and do some sort of trimming and reinforcement. Anyone have recommendations or ideas other than a swingarm bumper?

 

[ODSTbee]

Here's the status quo.

I recommend cam straps over ratchet straps to anyone attempting. Ratchet straps are too easy to over-tighten.

 

[Trunk Monkey]

It looks like you're also hitting the panhard as well. That really sucks they welded the hitch to the frame. It may be that it's not even a 100 series hitch, mine kind of follows the bends of the rear crossmember. So, that's one consideration, cut that hitch out completely and get the correct one. I would try to not have it in the cab without it more securely anchored, it would be a 200lb projectile in an accident.

If not, I guess I would try to cut out the cross bar, mount the spare, and see what additional plate would need to be fabbed in to move that cross bar out so it clears the spare.

 

[TahoeZ]

33.5” tire fits with the standard bolt on hitches I have seen. 35” fits with the hitch removed. Both are tight. You’ll have to at least cut the existing hitch off.

 

[GTV]

It's welded on which defeats my current tools and skillset.

You only need an electric grinder (not battery powered), discs and some PPE. Cutting welds is not rocket surgery. That thing needs to come off first.

 

[ODSTbee]

Great, thank y'all. It does appear to be a Hitch Crafters brand hitch.

Thanks GTV for the tool recommendation.

I can deal with not having a weight-bearing hitch for the time being, so I'll cut it off then start the search for a stock hitch.