Thule bars, ratchet straps and bike locks - spare on roof?

[UCBerzerkeley]

Ok, let me preface this by saying that funding for a rear carrier is in the works, this is not a permanent solution. But I have a 315 spare I need to carry on outings however. That said, what are my options?

I have removed the stock rack on my rig. Up there right now are two thule bars, attached to the gutters. My worries are safety and theft.

I was thinking I could put the spare on the thule bars, use ratchets attached to the gutter to secure it, and loop a chain/bike lock through the wheel around the thule bar.

So, I am not normally one for redneck ingenuity, but I am tempted by this setup lol.

 

[BrotherRob]

Stand it up in the back and strap it down to the 3rd row mount on the wheel well to the one on the floor. The tire is to damn heavy put on the roof.

 

[80t0ylc]

Another problem with your ratchet strap idea is if you can get the straps attached to your gutter, you're going to have clearance problems opening doors into the hooks where they attach to the gutter. My Yakima bar clamps barely clear my doors. I can't imagine you getting ratchet strap hooks to work. Maybe you have flatter hooks on your ratchet straps than what I've seen.

 

[tlc81]

dude, have you tried to lift a 35 over your head? a spare on the roof equals trip to chiropractor...

 

[UCBerzerkeley]

dude, have you tried to lift a 35 over your head? a spare on the roof equals trip to chiropractor...

Good point, it was bad enough lifting it into the trunk. I guess that will have to be the plan for now.