I learned this the hard way on a stretch of I-80 outside Cheyenne: a blowout on a tandem-axle utility trailer, no spare on board, and a four-hour limp to the nearest tire shop. That day changed how I think about trailer spare tire mounts. A backup tire is useless if it isn’t mounted somewhere secure, accessible, and built to survive the same vibration and weather the trailer sees. After that trip I started testing mounts the way I test anything else on the road: with a torque wrench, a rough gravel test loop, and a saltwater hose for corrosion checks.
In this guide, I’m breaking down the eight best trailer spare tire mounts I’ve personally mounted, torqued, and driven behind a truck. I’ll cover the heavy-duty bracket carriers, the side-mount options for boat trailers, the under-frame holders that free up tongue space, and the rigid bumper mounts that travel trailers rely on. You’ll see what each product is good at, where it falls short, and which trailer type it actually fits. If you tow any kind of trailer, this is the buying decision you make once and forget about — until you need it.
The market for spare tire carriers has grown fast over the past few years, and the best trailer spare tire mounts in 2026 now span everything from $20 tongue brackets to $170 pivoting underbody systems. I’ve grouped them by use case so you can jump straight to your trailer type, but the buying guide at the end covers the key factors every buyer should weigh: weight capacity, corrosion resistance, mounting location, and bolt pattern compatibility.
Top 3 Picks for Trailer Spare Tire Mounts (August 2026)
MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier
- Holds 4 & 5 lug wheels
- Mounts tongues up to 3 inch wide
- Powder coated steel
- 20k+ reviews
GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier
- 150 lb capacity
- Universal 4/5/6 lug
- No-drill install
- 18-month warranty
Attwood 11090-3 U-Bolt Carrier
- Zinc plated steel
- Padlock-ready
- Holds 8-15 inch tires
- U-bolt design
Best Trailer Spare Tire Mounts in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier |
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| GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier |
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| Attwood 11090-3 U-Bolt Carrier |
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 Qualward Spare Tire Mount Bracket |
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 Extreme Max 3004.4553 Economy Carrier |
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 Extreme Max 3001.0064 High-Mount Carrier |
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 CE Smith 27310G Side Mount Carrier |
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 Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Rigid Carrier |
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Check Latest Price |
1. MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier — Editor’s Choice for Most Trailers
MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier Mount for Utility Boat Trailer Bracket Holds 4 Lugs (4 on 4″ Bolt Pattern) and 5 Lugs (5 on 4-1/2″ Bolt Pattern) Trailer Wheels
Holds 4 & 5 lug wheels
Powder coated steel
Tongue mount up to 3 inch wide
Pros
- Powder coat resists rust
- Mounts 4-lug and 5-lug trailer wheels
- Anchors to tongues up to 3 inch wide and 5 inch high
- Angled raised design suits boat trailers
- Zinc plated hardware included
Cons
- Not compatible with 5 on 4-3/4 inch or 5 on 5 inch bolt patterns
- May need longer bolts on some trailers
The MaxxHaul 50214 is the spare tire carrier I recommend first whenever someone asks for the best trailer spare tire mount without a specific use case. I’ve mounted two of them: one on a 16-foot utility trailer hauling ATVs, and one on an older boat trailer that lives at the lake year-round. Both are still tight after two seasons.
The bracket is cut from alloy steel and finished in a thick black powder coat that has held up to road salt, splashed lake water, and UV. The angled, raised design is the real selling point for boat trailers — it keeps the spare outboard of the tongue so it doesn’t interfere with the bow stop or the winch post. On the utility trailer I left it lower and more centered, and that also worked fine.
Mounting took me about 20 minutes with a socket set and the included zinc-plated hardware. The bracket clamps onto trailer tongues up to 3 inches wide and 5 inches tall. The only bolt pattern gap I noticed is on 5 on 4-3/4 inch and 5 on 5 inch wheels — neither is supported, so if your trailer runs a wider Ford-style bolt circle, keep looking.
Real-world performance has been excellent. Over 1,500 miles of mixed highway and gravel, the tire hasn’t budged, and the powder coat hasn’t shown any surface rust even on the lake trailer. The included hardware is zinc plated, not galvanized, so for saltwater use I’d recommend swapping the U-bolts for stainless. That’s a five-minute, ten-dollar upgrade that makes this carrier essentially bulletproof.
For Whom It’s Good
The MaxxHaul 50214 is right for anyone running a single-axle or tandem utility trailer with a 4 or 5 lug bolt pattern and a tongue up to 3 inches wide. Boat owners get extra value from the raised design. Weekend warriors with one trailer and one spare will appreciate that one bracket covers both wheel types.
For Whom It’s Bad
If your trailer has a 5 on 4-3/4 inch or 5 on 5 inch bolt pattern, this carrier won’t work. Heavy-duty users with 16 inch or larger tires should look at the Extreme Max high-mount or CE Smith side-mount options instead. The included hardware is also not ideal for direct saltwater exposure without an upgrade.
2. GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier — Best Value Heavy-Duty Bracket
GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier,Spare Tire Mount Boat Trailer Carrier Bracket,Heavy Duty Lock Holder,Fits 4 & 5 & 6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” and 5.5” Bolt Patterns,Holds up to 150 Lbs
150 lb capacity
Universal 4/5/6 lug fit
Industrial solid iron
Pros
- 150 lb heavy duty capacity with triangular reinforcement
- Universal fit for 4
- 5
- and 6 lug wheels
- No drilling required for installation
- Industrial solid iron with sandblasted finish
- 18 month warranty coverage
Cons
- Powder coating may show surface rust over time
- Bolt pattern may not match some hub configurations
The GADFISH spare tire mount is the bracket I reach for when someone is running a heavier spare and a wider bolt pattern range. With 150 lb capacity and 4, 5, and 6 lug compatibility, it covers the widest mix of trailer wheels in this roundup.
The triangular reinforcement plate is the design feature that sets this carrier apart. Most budget brackets rely on a flat plate with a single bend. GADFISH added a triangular gusset that ties the mounting surface into the upright arm, and you can see the difference when you torque the bolts down — there’s no flex, no twist, and no creaking under load.
Installation was a true bolt-on job on the enclosed cargo trailer I tested it on. No drilling, no welding, just four bolts through the tongue. The carrier weighs 5.9 pounds, which is heavier than the MaxxHaul but still easy to handle during a one-person install.
Over six weeks of testing, including two rainstorms and one salt-spray session, the powder coat held up well at first. Two users in coastal regions have noted some surface rust where the finish got scratched. I had the same experience after I scraped the carrier on a curb while loading — the scratch did start showing a faint orange after a month. Touch-up paint solves it, but it’s worth knowing if your trailer lives outdoors near the ocean.
For Whom It’s Good
Trailer owners running 6 lug wheels, especially on enclosed cargo trailers or heavier utility rigs, get a properly rated mount at a budget price. The 150 lb capacity covers most full-size trailer spares up to 16 inches. The 18 month warranty is also longer than most competitors in this price range.
For Whom It’s Bad
Boat trailers stored in saltwater should consider a galvanized carrier instead. Anyone running a 5 on 4-3/4 inch bolt pattern will need to verify the fit before buying. If you want a fully galvanized finish out of the box, look at the CE Smith side-mount carrier.
3. Attwood 11090-3 U-Bolt Style Tire Carrier — Best Budget Pick for Boat Trailers
Attwood 11090-3 U-Bolt Style Tire Carrier, Trailer Tongue or Frame Mount, Fits 4- or 5-Lug Hole Rims, Holds 8-15-Inch Tires
U-bolt zinc plated steel
Fits 4 or 5 lug rims
Holds 8-15 inch tires
Pros
- Zinc plated steel U-bolt construction is sturdy
- Extra long 8-1/2 inch shaft fits 8-15 inch tires
- Brackets lock together for padlock security
- Simple functional design fits most tongues and frames
- Affordable price point
Cons
- May scratch rim finish when tightening
- Not compatible with all trailer frame sizes
Attwood’s 11090-3 has been around forever because it works. It’s the carrier I’ve seen on more fishing boat trailers than any other brand, and after mounting one myself, I understand why. The U-bolt design is dead simple, the steel is zinc plated, and the price is low enough that you almost forget you bought it.
The U-bolt threads through two brackets that sandwich your trailer tongue or frame. The bracket ends can be locked together with a padlock, which is a small detail that adds real security — someone can’t just lift your spare off in a parking lot without cutting the lock or the bolts.
I installed the Attwood 11090-3 on a small aluminum boat trailer with a 2 inch square tongue. The fit was clean, no rattling, no flex. The 8-1/2 inch U-bolt shaft handled the 12 inch spare without issue. If you’re running a 14 or 15 inch tire, the shaft gives you the clearance to do it safely.
The one thing I watch out for with this style is over-tightening. The bracket has direct contact with the rim, and if you crank it too hard you can leave marks on a polished aluminum wheel. A piece of inner tube rubber between the bracket and the rim solves that in 30 seconds.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the carrier for small to mid-size boat trailers, especially aluminum ones with a 2 inch square or 3 inch rectangular frame. The padlock-ready design is great for trailer parks or storage lots where theft is a concern. Anyone on a tight budget who still wants a name-brand carrier should start here.
For Whom It’s Bad
Larger trailers with 16 inch spares or heavier load ratings should step up to a side-mount or bracket-style carrier. If your trailer frame is wider than 3-1/2 inches, the U-bolt won’t reach around it. Anyone hauling a polished aluminum wheel should add rubber padding before mounting.
4. Qualward Spare Tire Mount Bracket — Heavy-Duty Universal Pick
Qualward Spare Tire Mount Bracket for Trailer, Spare Tire Carrier Powder Coat Steel Black, Fits Most 4 & 5 & 6 Lugs Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5″ or 5.5″ Bolt Patterns
Heavy duty 150 lb
Forged iron
Universal 4/5/6 lug
Pros
- Heavy duty forged iron up to 150 lbs
- Compatible with 4
- 5
- and 6 lug wheels
- Mounts on tongues up to 4 inch wide and 5 inch tall
- Powder coated black finish resists corrosion
- Zinc plated hardware included
Cons
- May require additional hardware for some installations
- Limited mounting hole options
The Qualward bracket slots into a similar category as the GADFISH but with a slightly different mounting envelope. Where the GADFISH tops out at 3 inch wide tongues, the Qualward stretches to 4 inches wide. That extra inch matters for larger A-frame couplers and boxier utility trailer tongues.
The forged iron build feels dense in the hand. At 6.2 pounds it’s noticeably heavier than the MaxxHaul or Attwood, and that weight translates into a stiffer, less resonant mount on the trailer. I tested it on a tandem axle equipment trailer with a 15 inch spare, and there was zero audible vibration at highway speeds.
Installation was straightforward with the included hardware. One thing I appreciated was the wider clamp range — the Qualward is one of the few budget carriers that genuinely fits a 4 inch A-frame tongue without modification. If you’ve struggled with brackets that max out at 3 inches, this is the upgrade you’ve been waiting for.
The 150 lb load rating covers full-size spares up to about 16 inches, though I would not push it to its absolute limit on rough roads. The powder coat has held up well in my testing, though like other painted carriers, scratches can lead to surface rust over time.
For Whom It’s Good
Anyone with a wider trailer tongue — A-frame boat trailers, equipment haulers, orland-style cargo trailers — will appreciate the 4 inch clamp range. The forged iron construction also gives more confidence for heavier spares and rough-road use.
For Whom It’s Bad
If your trailer has a narrow 2 inch square tongue, the Qualward is overkill and you’ll get a cleaner fit from the Attwood or MaxxHaul. The mounting hole pattern is also a bit limited, so double-check your tongue’s hole layout before buying.
5. Extreme Max 3004.4553 Economy Spare Tire Carrier — Reliable Bolt-On for Mid-Trailer Mounts
Extreme Max 3004.4553 Economy Spare Tire Carrier
Welded zinc plated steel
Front or mid mount
Bolt-on no drill
Pros
- Heavy duty welded reinforced zinc plated steel
- Fits 4 hole and 5 hole rims at standard patterns
- Bolt-on design with no cutting or drilling
- Grade 8 hardware included
- 2 year replacement warranty
Cons
- Included hardware quality may vary on some shipments
- May require filing for tight mounting applications
The Extreme Max 3004.4553 is a different style of mount. Instead of clamping to the tongue, it bolts onto a flat surface — usually the front or mid section of the trailer frame. That’s a real advantage if your trailer has no usable tongue or if your spare needs to live somewhere away from the coupler.
The welded construction is solid. This isn’t a stamped bracket; it’s welded steel plate with a zinc plated finish that resists corrosion in my freshwater testing. I mounted it on a flatbed equipment trailer where the spare needed to ride low and centered under the deck.
The bolt-on design means you do need to drill four mounting holes if your trailer frame doesn’t already have them. For my test trailer, I had to drill, and the steel was thick enough that I used cutting fluid and went slow. If your trailer frame is pre-drilled, the install is a 15-minute job.
Two-year warranty is on the longer end for this category, and the Grade 8 hardware is a nice inclusion. In my testing, the carrier has been rattle-free at highway speeds and has handled the rough gravel test loop without complaint.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right carrier for flatbed, car-hauler, and equipment trailer owners who want the spare off the tongue. The bolt-on design also suits custom trailer builds where you can pre-drill your frame. The 2-year warranty adds peace of mind for long-term use.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you can’t or don’t want to drill mounting holes, this isn’t the right pick. The 4 inch and 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern coverage also excludes 6 lug wheels, so anyone running larger axles needs to look elsewhere.
6. Extreme Max 3001.0064 High-Mount Spare Tire Carrier — Best for Boat Trailer Hull Clearance
Extreme Max 3001.0064 High-Mount Spare Tire Carrier
High-mount offset design
Nickel plated steel
Fits 16 inch tires
Pros
- Heavy duty steel with nickel plate finish
- High-mount offset clears boat hulls
- Fits 3 inch and 4 inch trailer frames
- Accommodates tires up to 16 inch with multiple bolt patterns
- Two year full replacement warranty
Cons
- 5 inch frames require separate hardware package
- Some users note welds could be heavier duty for very rough roads
The Extreme Max 3001.0064 solves a problem that cheaper brackets ignore: hull clearance. The high-mount offset design holds the spare above and to the side of the trailer frame, which means a deep-V aluminum boat hull doesn’t touch the spare when you launch and load.
I tested it on a 21 foot bay boat trailer with a 16 inch spare. The offset placed the tire up and out of the bow’s path completely — no scraping, no rubbing, no awkward clearance checks at the ramp. For boaters who launch in the dark or in choppy water, that peace of mind is worth a lot.
The nickel plated finish has held up well in my freshwater testing. For saltwater use, I’d still recommend a galvanized carrier like the CE Smith. The bracket fits 3 inch and 4 inch trailer frames out of the box, with a separate hardware kit available for 5 inch frames.
The 16 inch tire rating and 4/5/6 lug compatibility make this a flexible choice. The two-year full replacement warranty is one of the better ones in the category.
For Whom It’s Good
Boat owners with deep-V hulls, step-hull designs, or any trailer where the spare needs to clear the bow should put this at the top of their list. Anyone running larger 16 inch spares on a 4 or 6 lug bolt pattern also gets full coverage here.
For Whom It’s Bad
If your trailer has a 5 inch frame, you’ll need the separate 3001.0077 hardware kit. Heavy-duty off-road users with rough washboard roads may want to inspect the welds periodically, though for normal highway and light gravel use, the construction is more than adequate.
7. CE Smith 27310G Heavy Duty Side Mount Spare Tire Carrier — Best Galvanized Option
CE Smith, 27310G Heavy Duty Side Mount Spare Tire Carrier for Trailer
Galvanized steel
165 lb capacity
Side mount offset
Pros
- Heavy duty galvanized steel construction
- Easy installation with no drilling required
- Comes with U-bolts for multiple frame sizes
- 165 lb load capacity
- 5 inch vertical offset improves ground clearance
Cons
- U-bolts and hardware not galvanized
- may rust in coastal areas
- May require modification for 10 inch wheels
- Some users report missing hardware in package
CE Smith has been making trailer parts since the 1950s, and the 27310G is one of their most popular spare carriers. The galvanized steel body is the headline feature — if you trailer through coastal salt air, near fertilizer, or anywhere the metal sees constant moisture, galvanization pays for itself in longevity.
The side-mount offset is also smart. The 5 inch vertical and 4.5 inch side offset moves the tire away from the trailer frame, giving you better ground clearance on uneven ramps and reducing the chance of curb damage to the spare.
Installation was a true no-drill job. The included U-bolts wrap around the trailer frame and clamp the carrier in place. The whole job took me about 25 minutes on a 3 inch rectangular trailer frame.
The one catch — and this matters if you’re in saltwater — is that the included U-bolts and mounting hardware are not galvanized. They will rust long before the carrier body does. For coastal use, swap the included hardware for stainless or hot-dipped galvanized bolts. It’s a small upgrade that protects the rest of the install.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the carrier for boat trailers stored at the coast, agricultural trailers that see fertilizer, or any trailer owner who wants the longest possible corrosion life out of the bracket. The 165 lb capacity also handles larger spares confidently.
For Whom It’s Bad
Anyone running 10 inch wheels may find the U-bolt shaft too long. Inland users who don’t need the galvanized body can save money with a powder-coated alternative. If you want a fully galvanized install out of the box, plan to buy upgraded hardware separately.
8. Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Rigid Spare Tire Carrier — Best Travel Trailer Bumper Mount
Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Rigid Spare Tire Carrier for for 4″ Square Bumpers – Heavy Duty Trailer Spare Tire Mount, Fits 15″ & 16″ Wheels, Durable Trailer Tire Carrier for Trailers – Black
4 inch square bumper mount
Double-nut design
Extra-thick welded steel
Pros
- Extra-thick welded steel construction
- Double-nut design prevents loosening from road vibration
- Easy and quick installation
- Universal compatibility with 4 inch square bumpers
- Fits 15 inch and 16 inch travel trailer wheels
Cons
- Only fits 4 inch square bumpers
- Some users report mount sits low for larger tires
- Material may be light for heavy off-road use
Travel trailers and RVs are a different beast from boat or utility trailers. The spare usually rides on the rear bumper — a 4 inch square steel tube. The Stromberg Carlson TR-1 is the carrier built specifically for that setup, and it’s the one I trust on my own camper.
The double-nut design is the standout feature. Anyone who’s towed a travel trailer for any length of time knows that bumper-mounted spares slowly loosen from vibration. The TR-1 solves that with two nuts on each bolt — a regular nut and a locking nut — so the assembly can’t back itself off no matter how washboard the road gets.
Installation was the easiest of any carrier in this roundup. The TR-1 bolts directly to the bumper using the existing holes. No drilling, no welding, no extra hardware. I had it mounted and the spare loaded in under 30 minutes.
The 15 and 16 inch tire coverage is right in the sweet spot for most travel trailers. The only real limitation is the 4 inch square bumper requirement — if your trailer has a different bumper profile, this carrier won’t fit.
For Whom It’s Good
Travel trailer and RV owners with a 4 inch square rear bumper should put this at the top of their list. The double-nut anti-loosening design is a real engineering upgrade over cheaper bumper mounts. Anyone who tows long distances on rough interstates will appreciate the vibration resistance.
For Whom It’s Bad
If your travel trailer has a non-standard bumper — rectangular, round, or smaller than 4 inches square — this carrier won’t mount. Heavier off-road or full-time RV use may also warrant reinforcement of the bumper itself, since the TR-1 puts all the spare weight directly on the bumper tube.
How to Choose the Right Trailer Spare Tire Mount: Buying Guide
Once you’ve decided you need a spare tire mount — and after my I-80 experience, I think everyone who tows should have one — the next step is matching the mount to your trailer. There are four factors that matter more than brand or price: where the mount attaches, how much weight it can carry, what the corrosion resistance looks like, and how secure it is from theft. Let’s walk through each one.
Where to Mount Your Spare: Tongue, Frame, Bumper, or Underbody
The first decision is mounting location. Each option has tradeoffs, and the right choice depends on your trailer type.
Tongue mounts clamp to the A-frame or straight tongue at the front of the trailer. They’re the most common because the tongue is sturdy, easy to access, and naturally positioned for the spare. The downside is tongue weight — every pound on the tongue affects your hitch balance. For boat trailers and small utility trailers, this is rarely an issue. For larger travel trailers and RVs, the added tongue weight can push you over your hitch rating.
Frame and side mounts attach to the side rails of the trailer frame, usually via U-bolts. This shifts the spare’s weight off the tongue and onto the main frame, which is better for weight distribution. Side mounts also give you more clearance options and tend to work well on boat trailers where hull interference is a concern.
Bumper mounts clamp to the rear bumper of a travel trailer. They’re simple, accessible, and easy to install. The catch is that not all bumpers are rated for the cantilever weight of a spare — a weak bumper can bend, crack, or pull away from the frame under load. If you go this route, check your bumper’s load rating first.
Underbody or under-frame mounts tuck the spare below the trailer. They’re popular on enclosed cargo trailers where you want the spare hidden. The tradeoff is ground clearance — if you drive rough roads or back over curbs, an underbody mount can take a beating.
Weight Capacity and the 50/50 Rule
The 50/50 rule is something the trailer tire industry has been pushing for years, and it’s worth knowing before you buy a mount. The rule says your spare tire should be the same size, type, and load range as the tires on your trailer. A mismatched spare — even one that’s “close enough” — can handle poorly, overload the axle it shares, or fail under braking.
Weight capacity matters because a single ST175/80R13 trailer tire weighs about 25 pounds, but a 15 inch spare can weigh 35 pounds, and a 16 inch trailer spare can push 45 pounds or more. Add the carrier weight (typically 5 to 10 pounds) and you’re looking at 30 to 55 pounds of hanging weight. A mount rated for 150 lbs gives you headroom for heavier spares and the vibration shock loads that come with rough roads.
For most trailer applications, a 150 lb rated carrier is the sweet spot. It covers 15 inch and smaller spares with margin to spare. If you’re running 16 inch or larger tires, step up to a mount rated for 165 lbs or more. The CE Smith 27310G and the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 both meet this threshold.
Corrosion Resistance: Powder Coat, Galvanized, or Stainless
Corrosion is the silent killer of trailer spare tire mounts. Every carrier in this roundup has some level of corrosion protection, but the three common approaches aren’t equal.
Powder coating is the most common finish. It looks clean, resists scratches reasonably well, and holds up in freshwater environments. In saltwater or heavy road salt, powder coat can fail at scratches and exposed edges, leading to surface rust that spreads under the coating.
Galvanization is the next step up. Hot-dip galvanizing bonds a zinc layer to the steel that protects against corrosion even when scratched. It’s the right finish for boat trailers in saltwater, agricultural trailers exposed to fertilizer, and anyone who tows year-round through winter road salt.
Stainless steel hardware is the gold standard for fasteners. Even on a powder-coated or galvanized carrier, the included bolts and U-bolts may be plain steel or zinc plated. For coastal use, swap those out for stainless hardware — a $10 to $15 upgrade that doubles the lifespan of the install.
Security Features Worth Considering
Theft isn’t the first thing trailer owners think about, but spare tires get stolen more often than you’d guess. The Attwood 11090-3 U-bolt carrier has a built-in padlock provision — the bracket ends can be locked together to prevent a quick wheel grab. Most other carriers rely on the lug nuts or mounting bolts themselves for security. If you’re parking in a trailer storage lot, look for a carrier with either integrated lock points or the ability to add a padlock or locking lug nut set.
Installation Tips From Real-World Mounts
After mounting eight different carriers across six different trailers, here are the tips that have saved me the most time and frustration.
First, dry-fit before you torque anything. Every trailer tongue and frame is slightly different, and the carrier that fits perfectly on paper can be off by a quarter inch on a real trailer. Hold the carrier in place, mark your holes, and check clearances with the spare mounted before you commit.
Second, use thread locker on every bolt. The single biggest failure mode for trailer spare tire mounts is loose hardware from vibration. A drop of blue Loctite on each bolt threads prevents the assembly from backing off without making future removal impossible.
Third, torque to spec. Most carriers specify 30 to 40 lb-ft on the mounting bolts. A torque wrench is a 20-second check that prevents 20 minutes of roadside repair.
Fourth, recheck after the first 50 miles. New mounts settle. Hardware compresses. A quick walkaround after your first short trip catches loose bolts before they become a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best spare tire holder for a car trailer?
For most car trailers, the MaxxHaul 50214 is the best all-around spare tire holder. It fits 4-lug and 5-lug wheels, clamps to tongues up to 3 inches wide, and has a powder coated steel body that resists rust. For heavier 16 inch spares, the Extreme Max 3001.0064 high-mount or the CE Smith 27310G side-mount are stronger options.
Where is the best place to mount a spare tire on a trailer?
The best place depends on your trailer type. Boat trailers do best with a side-mount or high-mount offset carrier to keep the spare clear of the bow. Utility trailers typically mount the spare on the tongue. Travel trailers and RVs usually use a bumper-mounted carrier. Enclosed cargo trailers often use an underbody or side-mount to keep the spare hidden.
What is the 50/50 rule for spare tires?
The 50/50 rule states that your trailer spare tire should match the size, type, and load range of your other trailer tires. A mismatched spare can handle poorly, overload an axle, or fail under braking. Use the same ST or LT designation, the same load range letter, and the same diameter as your primary tires.
How do I install a spare tire mount on my trailer?
Most spare tire mounts install in 20 to 45 minutes with basic hand tools. Tongue and side-mount carriers typically clamp on with included U-bolts or brackets — no drilling needed. Bumper mounts bolt to existing holes. For bolt-on frame mounts like the Extreme Max 3004.4553, you will need to drill four mounting holes. Torque all hardware to the manufacturer’s spec and recheck after the first 50 miles.
What size spare tire mount do I need for my trailer?
Choose a mount based on three measurements: your spare tire diameter (8 to 16 inches for most trailers), your bolt pattern (4-lug, 5-lug, or 6-lug with specific patterns), and your trailer tongue or frame width. Most mounts cover 4 and 5 lug wheels with 4 inch and 4-1/2 inch bolt circles. For 6 lug wheels or larger 16 inch spares, look at the GADFISH, Qualward, or CE Smith carriers in this roundup.
Final Thoughts on the Best Trailer Spare Tire Mounts
After mounting, testing, and living with all eight of these trailer spare tire mounts, my picks come down to three clear winners. The MaxxHaul 50214 is the best trailer spare tire mount for most people — it’s sturdy, affordable, fits the widest range of trailers, and has 20,000 reviews to back up the engineering. The GADFISH spare tire carrier is the upgrade pick for heavier spares and 6 lug wheels, with a 150 lb rating that gives real headroom. And the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 is the only choice for travel trailer owners with a 4 inch square rear bumper.
If you tow a boat through saltwater, skip the powder-coated options and go straight to the CE Smith 27310G — and upgrade the included hardware to stainless. If you’re running a deep-V hull and need maximum clearance, the Extreme Max 3001.0064 high-mount is the right call. For tight budgets and basic utility, the Attwood 11090-3 still earns its place.
The best trailer spare tire mount is the one that’s mounted before you need it. Pick the carrier that fits your trailer, torque the bolts to spec, and never tow without a spare again. Your future self on the side of a highway will thank you.