Finding the right spare tire mount for a flatbed or bed-equipped truck is essential for quick tire access and reliable mounting. This guide reviews five top picks, covering bed-mounted, hitch-mounted, and hoist-style solutions to fit a variety of tires and bolt patterns. Each option balances durability, ease of use, and weather resistance, helping you choose a mount that keeps your spare secure on rugged roads and highways alike.
| Brand | ||
|---|---|---|
| Rough Country | Universal Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier | Wide tire size range (33″–40″), top-of-bed access |
| Nilight | Trailer Hitch Spare Tire Carrier | Bolt-on, multiple lug compatibility, corrosion-resistant |
| Rough Country | Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier (Toyota Tacoma) | 40″ tire fitment, rugged steel construction |
| CURT | 24-Inch High Trailer Hitch Spare Tire Mount | Versatile height, 2-inch receiver compatibility |
| Gledewen | Spare Tire Hoist Carrier | Winch-style lift, 150 lb capacity |
Rough Country Universal Bed Mount Spare Tire Carrier
The Rough Country universal bed mount is designed for broad compatibility across popular pickups, supporting tire sizes from 33″ to 40″ and up to 14″ wide. It positions the spare at the top of the bed, enabling quick access when needed—an important feature for off-road adventures or roadside changes. Built from heavy-duty steel with a durable powder-coated finish, it’s engineered for long-lasting corrosion resistance and rugged use.
Key features include universal bed fitment, top-of-bed accessibility, and robust construction. The mount’s wide tire range accommodates many full-size and larger off-road tires, while the top-access design reduces the need to crawl under the vehicle. This option is suitable for drivers who want a straightforward, durable solution that keeps the spare within easy reach during adventures or daily driving.
Considerations: Confirm bed dimensions and bolt pattern compatibility with your truck. Ensure the top-of-bed access aligns with your tailgate and bed rails. The mount is designed for steady off-road use but may require precise alignment for certain bed contours and aftermarket bed accessories.
Nilight Trailer Hitch Spare Tire Carrier
The Nilight spare tire carrier is a bolt-on solution designed for 2-inch receivers, compatible with 4-, 5-, and 6-lug wheels. It emphasizes easy installation without cutting or drilling, and includes all necessary hardware. The unit uses high-quality metal with a powder-coated finish to resist weathering, and it features heavy-duty U-bolts and anti-vibration stabilizers to minimize noise and movement during transit. An all-weather rubber key slot cap helps protect the lock area from moisture and dust.
Highlights include quick installation, robust corrosion resistance, and effective vibration control. This mount works well for trailers, SUVs, and cargo setups where a reliable hitch-mounted spare is preferred. It’s especially advantageous for users who frequently switch between vehicles or require a resilient, low-maintenance mounting solution that’s straightforward to install and service.
Considerations: Verify your hitch class and overall wheel diameter compatibility. Make sure the spare tire’s weight is supported by the carrier and that the locking or securing mechanism is appropriate for your security needs. The product is designed for standard 2-inch receivers and may not fit non-standard hitch sizes without an adapter.
Rigid Hitch In-Bed Spare Tire Bracket
The Rigid Hitch in-Bed Spare Tire Bracket aims to move the spare out from underneath the truck, offering a more accessible location for quick tire changes. This universal design fits a range of truck brands and bed configurations, with additional security through optional locking hardware. The product emphasizes reliability and ease of use, making it suitable for drivers who need a straightforward, in-bed mounting solution that minimizes underbody exposure.
Key points include universal fitment, improved accessibility, and a strong steel build. If you frequently switch tires or operate in remote locations, this option helps streamline maintenance. It’s important to ensure proper alignment and clearance with nearby bed components and to verify whether a lock and security features are desired for your application.
Considerations: Check compatibility with your truck’s bed dimensions and bolt patterns. Consider whether you need additional security features since a lock is not included by default. Verify that the mounting bracket does not interfere with bed rails, tools, or other storage accessories.
Spare Tire Hoist, Gledewen
The Gledewen spare tire hoist offers a winch-style carrier system designed for RVs, trailers, trucks, and motorhomes. It allows you to raise and lower the spare tire with a crank rod, reducing the need to crawl under the vehicle. The system uses a reinforced steel frame and a 150-pound weight capacity with a 46-inch cable length, supporting a wide range of spare tire sizes. The design emphasizes user-friendly installation and a durable build for heavy-duty use.
Advantages include a user-friendly hoist mechanism, a long cable for increased reach, and a robust construction that withstands regular operation. This option is valuable for installations where under-vehicle access is difficult or when a higher mounting point is preferred. Be mindful of the mounting location and the base frame’s compatibility with your vehicle’s chassis or bed.
Considerations: Confirm the mounting hardware and anchor points align with your vehicle setup. Ensure the winch system can be installed securely on your frame and that the crank mechanism has clear access for operation. Inspect the cable for wear over time and replace parts as needed to maintain safe operation.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations And Comparisons
When choosing a spare tire mount for a flatbed or bed-equipped truck, consider these aspects to match your vehicle, tires, and usage scenario:
- Mounting location: Bed-mounted, hitch-mounted, or in-bed/hoist systems each offer distinct accessibility and clearance. Bed mounts are quick to reach; hitch mounts fit standard receivers; hoists provide a hands-free lowering mechanism for heavy tires.
- Tire size compatibility: Ensure the mount supports your largest spare tire diameter and width, as well as bolt pattern compatibility (5×5, 6×5.5, etc.).
- Weight rating and materials: Look for high-strength steel with corrosion-resistant finishes (powder coat, galvanization) and verify weight limits, especially for larger off-road tires.
- Security and locking: Some products offer integrated locking or compatibility with optional lock hardware to deter theft.
- Installation complexity: Bolt-on vs. welded, number of components, and whether drilling or cutting is required. Consider whether you’ll install it yourself or seek professional installation.
- Maintenance: Check for rust resistance, ease of cleaning, and accessibility for periodic inspections of bolts, mounts, and fasteners.
- Vehicle compatibility: Verify bed length, wheelbase, trailing arm clearance, and any aftermarket bed accessories or tool mounts to avoid interference.
- Usage scenario: For frequent off-road trips, a top-access bed mount or a hoist can streamline tire changes under rugged conditions; for occasional highway use, a sturdy hitch mount may suffice.
Comparison highlights:
- Bed-mounted options (Rough Country universal bed mount, Tacoma-specific bed mount) prioritize quick access and compatibility with larger tires, suitable for trucks with active off-road use.
- Hitch-mounted options (Nilight) provide versatile installation with standard 2-inch receivers, good for multi-vehicle setups and trailer use, with added anti-vibration features.
- In-bed hoist systems (Gledewen) offer ergonomic one-person operation for heavy tires, ideal when crawl-space access is limited or back strain is a concern.
- Rear or front hitch-mount designs (CURT) deliver height flexibility on standard receivers, enabling mounting in various vehicle configurations and roles (towing or recovery).
In sum, the best spare tire mount depends on your truck model, bed design, typical load, and how often you need to access the spare tire. Prioritize secure mounting, weather resistance, and ease of use to maintain reliability on long trips, workdays, or off-road adventures.