BAL Hide A Spare Install

[bsmith0404]

I finally installed the BAL Hide A Spare to my 5er, (sorry, didn't take pics). The hardest part of the install was finding a good place to put it. With a front drop frame it would be too low. The OE spare is on a cable a bit behind the axle. There was room to put the BAL between the axles and OE spare, but removal would have been difficult with the stairs and 6 point levelers in that area. Although I didn't want anything further back due to clearance issues that come into play at the rear, I didn't have any choice.

The installation was very easy. The brackets sit on the frame rail, I quick drop of the colorplast to make sure there isn't anything on the backside, some 1/8" pilot holes, and then #14 self tapping screws with a little lock tite and done. Total time was about 2 hours. The new spare tucks up nice, actually has more clearance than the OE, which helps with my concerns of it being a little further back.

I will say it is nice to drop the bracket and slide the spare out on the telescoping rails vs crawling up under to pull the OE tire out after lowing the cable. Will definitely be appreciated if changing a flat in the rain. Definitely worth the $85 I paid for it.

[Tbos]

Sounds like you made a good investment.


2016 Passport GT 2810BHS, 2016 F350 CC DRW

[bsmith0404]

Here's a pic of the install. The tire to the right side is the OE hanger, the BAL actually has more clearance than the OE so even though its further back, I still feel pretty good about the clearance.

[jmart273]

So you have 2 spares now? Did you purchase the 2nd? If so, why?

[bsmith0404]

I do have two spares and yes I purchased the second one and the BAL Hide A Spare to carry it. I carry two spares because it's not a good feeling to have to travel over 200 miles without a spare on a Sunday afternoon in the middle of no where. I live in New Mexico so the middle of no where is just about every where. Last year I picked up a nail and got a flat on a Sunday afternoon. I was 200 miles from home and not a single tire shop open anywhere. Even if there had been one open, the chance of a small tire shop out in the middle of no where carrying a LRF or LRG 235/85R16 probably isn't great. Having a second spare gives me the freedom and comfort to continue on without as much worry until I can find a Discount Tire and replace the flat.

[jmart273]

Never thought of that! Sounds like a great idea. My spare is on the bumper and was looking at moving it underneath with the BAL unit. I like their products.

[bsmith0404]

Originally Posted by jmart273

Never thought of that! Sounds like a great idea. My spare is on the bumper and was looking at moving it underneath with the BAL unit. I like their products.

The BAL unit was the best $85 I've spent for upgrades.