BAL Hide A Spare Install
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.
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Brent
2013 Alpine 3500RE
2019 Silverado 2500HD Duramax
U.S. Air Force Retired (25 yrs)
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