I wonder why the folks that designed that Colorado thing didn't use more links in their design. What a waste. :pat:

 

Thanks for the great replies fellas. I failed to consider whether the trailer will prevent the carrier from opening enough to gain access to the rear. I'll have to head out this week-end and get some measurements but my gut feeling is that it is going to be mighty tight.

I tend to access the back quite a bit since the majority of my gear is stored there (my dogs own the back seat) - not a problem unless the trailer is hooked up.

The tire on the rack isn't really an option (I store my gas, chainsaw, tent, chairs, etc up there) - and frankly, I'm too old to heave that spare up there LOL.

The potential failure of the hinge is a concern so I will have to contact BCC to get some reassurance (and some discussion regarding long-term metal fatigue). Also, the eventual game plan was to use the spare tire space under the truck for an auxillary gas tank.

I'm still on the fence on this decision but the great replies have given me a lot of great information to consider.

Thanks again;

James

 

the ONLY option for a single-point pivot/hinge is the Slee Hinge. No others compare.

 

you could always just get runflat tires and AAA.... jk. bamachems bumper if by far the best in my opinion. I really want to put a tire carrier on mine. Once i buy a welder ill get it done

 

I had a rear tire carrier on mt 1989 4runner for 8 years & loved it. It held a 33x14.50x15 TSL SSR. It was mad by Bonarue mfg. and was mounted into the reciever hitch. It pivoted down about 45 degrees allowing access to the back. At less than $200 at the time, a purchase I'm glad I made.