Spare tire mount

[Sparky97LX]

I'm looking at purchasing either an ARB or Kaymar rear bumper utilizing the swing away spare tire mount. Having the option of either left or right side mounting which is preferable? Seems the right side mounting would cause a blind spot in the rear view mirror from the driver's seat while the left side mounting wouldn't be as noticeable from the driver's seat and still have good visibility in the rear view mirror. I do not desire dual spares or jerry can holders. Is there any disadvantages to either side for mounting? I'm also considering what might be more noticeable for the to see incase she forgets to close the tire rack.:whoops:

 

[80t0ylc]

I'm looking at purchasing either an ARB or Kaymar rear bumper utilizing the swing away spare tire mount. Having the option of either left or right side mounting which is preferable? Seems the right side mounting would cause a blind spot in the rear view mirror from the driver's seat while the left side mounting wouldn't be as noticeable from the driver's seat and still have good visibility in the rear view mirror. I do not desire dual spares or jerry can holders. Is there any disadvantages to either side for mounting? I'm also considering what might be more noticeable for the to see incase she forgets to close the tire rack.:whoops:

I agree with your thoughts for mounting swingout on left side. Mine is on the right side only because I followed what I knew was offered as an option (JDM) to be on the right. For road shoulder stops, on the right side has it's advantages here in the USA for safety clearances. No other advantages can I think of for right side. I don't know what to tell you for tips on forgetting to close or latch the swingout. I've only forgot once and luckily had kids in the car that noticed it on the first corner. "DAD, YOU FORGOT TO CLOSE THE SPARE!!!" It was a left turn and I thought that I felt something had shifted. I vaguely remember a blur in the mirror, but it didn't really grab my attention like the voices. I think that cured me - time will tell!

 

[Sparky97LX]

I had the swing away spare on my old 85 Bronco and found that it caused a little bit of a blind spot from the rear view mirror although the PS mirror could see it all. How much does your right hand mount block your vision from the rear view mirror? Any at all? Hadn't thought about the JDM versions although I've contacted MOT to see about buying a complete JDM spare mount and found out that the costs add up quickly and not too far off what a complete Kaymar or ARB costs. Funny you responded, I've been using your rig as my "template" on what I want mine to look like.

 

[80t0ylc]

I had the swing away spare on my old 85 Bronco and found that it caused a little bit of a blind spot from the rear view mirror although the PS mirror could see it all. How much does your right hand mount block your vision from the rear view mirror? Any at all?

Maybe it's the window tinting, but with 3 mirrors, I don't even notice the spare. The only mirror I can even see the spare in is the interior(center) and what is blocked by the spare, I can see in the passenger side mirror. Generally when I'm backing up off road, where visibility might be a problem, I'll get out and eyeball the path first. So, it has not been an issue for me. Can't speak for others, though. Seems like a left hand mount would give you an edge, since then it would be directly behind the driver, which is a natural blind spot anyway.

Funny you responded, I've been using your rig as my "template" on what I want mine to look like.

You've PMd me with a question or two before. I think you were asking about the OME springs. Thank you for your kind words! I have been captivated by the 80's lines ever since I've seen them. The performance they give is a real bonus - it rounds out the package, doesn't it?
PS: I had an '84 Bronco II with a factory spare swingout. The latch was more user friendly than the Kaymar, but not near as sturdy. Could say that for the swingout, too. Don't remember visibility being an issue on it, either.