It seems to me that nearly every Surf overseas has the rear tire carrier option. Personally, I don't think the bodies/structure could possibly differ too significantly from US 3rd gen Runners. Wouldn't it be possible to attach an OEM tire carrier from a Surf to a 3rd Gen? Can't this be done in a 2nd gen by purchasing a mounting plate and welding it in? Anybody looked into this?

Just me thinking out loud!

 

You have to reinforce the Quarter. the second Gen. Runners and surfs have extra bracing in the right rear to support the weight of the tire and carrier, which is close to or more than 100lbs.

 

About reinforcement....Is that a simple part that can be purchased from a dealer and welded on, like a 2nd gen? (or so I've read)

 

3rd gen runners never came with a rear tire carrier, so it is somthing you will have to fab up yourself. some basic plate steel and a rib or two should do the trick.

 

^ 3rd gen runner did not come w/ a carrier, but 3rd Gen SURFs DID come w/ a rear tire carrier... I have no idea about the reinforcement. Do some research and see if there's a kit available for the surf to add it. If it's a factory option, then I'd say that it has reinforcements. If it's a dealer or aftermarket option, then it's more than likely a bolt-on addition.

 

Perhaps Surfs did come with them, but you'd pay an arm and a leg jsut to get surf parts as they have to import them. Not to mention all the work of installing it in the quarter panel. It can't just be a bolt on, since the carrier bolts to the quarter, AFTER you drill holes, and weld reinforments into the quarter.

You're better off going to a local 4x4 shop or welding outfit, and having them make a custom tire carrier, or going aftermarket of some sort.

BTW, the Tailgates on Surfs w/ tailgagte mounted spares are different from non gate mounted spare vehicles...the license plate has to be moved, as do the lights etc...its juas a pain in the ass, and not really worth it IMHO

 

I was cruising a UK Surf site and there were talks about this very mod. Seems like a hadfull of people have done it. I shot out a couple emails for details..Yes, it may be a huge PITA..but I wanna know exaclty..I'm curious like that.