Spare tire bracket/mount can it be removed?

[Positive Vibes]

I want to mount my air compressor where the spare is. I want to remove the bracket/mount for the spare tire. Is this bracket needed or support of the frame or anything. I don't see any need for it now and the higher I mount the air compressor the better. So what you people think?

 

[hydroxy]

the stock compressor for my air ride suspension is mounted above the spare tire holder... It is the metal plate piece that connects right next to the spare tire wench. top left corner of the picture.

Here are the compressors fit nice and snug up there.

The mounting plate is in the top-center of the picture.

Middle left side.

I'm sure you could go take one off an explorer and just mount yours there.

 

[JPA1982]

no the bracket does nothing, has 2 bolts, takes less then 5 mins to take out, just lower the holder about 6 inches, then undo the bolts and slide it out

 

[Positive Vibes]

Thanks for the replies. Mine is rivited to the frame. So I will have to grind it or chisel it off. I want it as high as possible. I was in water this weekend up to the doors.

 

[hydroxy]

if you just get the air compressor plate off a ltd explorer you wouldn't have to worry about taking anything off... And it is pretty high up.

 

[Positive Vibes]

hydroxy, understood. But I'm into wheeling and with the mud and water I need it as high as possible. I'm still thinking it will be too low and I will have to install a switch in the cab so it doesn't turn on when in deep water. Its a Quick air 2 and I have an old metal first aid kit I'm going to use to protect it. It will also store the air line and regulator.

 

[Rhett]

no the bracket does nothing, has 2 bolts, takes less then 5 mins to take out, just lower the holder about 6 inches, then undo the bolts and slide it out

The bracket is riveted on all the 1st gens and most 2nd gens I've ever seen.
So removal is a little more involved, with a grinder and such...

 

[jimbo74]

if you are really worried about it, and do a lot of hardcore wheeling, mount it inside the passenger cabin.... or under the hood....

 

[JPA1982]

didn't know some have rivets sorry, mine didn't and just assumed were the same, it did take me under 5 mins. guess i got lucky.

 

[Positive Vibes]

if you are really worried about it, and do a lot of hardcore wheeling, mount it inside the passenger cabin.... or under the hood....

There isn't room under the hood and the only space in the cab is the storage where the stock jack is. And thats packed full of spare parts etc.

I just wanted to make sure that its only purpose was for the spare and not structural integrity. Where did everyone else mount thiers?

 

[jimbo74]

d, off topic, but it seems you go wheeling a lot... do you do it locally? like up here in SC or travel places? If its local, i might have to join you with my 4x2 yota once its fixed up sometime, if thats ok with you

 

[Positive Vibes]

Jim, yes I try to go wheeling as often as possible. I don't know anyone (besides on this board) that has a capable vehicle or is willing to take it on the trials. So its Frank Raines, La Grange and Hollister. Still haven't been to Carnagie. We also do a lot of primitive camping way up in the Sierras where we find some great wheeling. Sure you can come.

 

[jimbo74]

well my truck is a 4x2, so it will only be somewhat capable... carnegie is kinda boring... but its ok... hollister is much better.... have you heard of deer creek? i have heard its nice out there..... its out by del valle..... but my truck will have 31s and 4.10s and a locker once im done with it..... so semi capable... i have front towhooks, and a 30' tow strap

 

[Positive Vibes]

I've run deer creek. Thats a fun day!!

 

[Hartman]

Does your Ex have skidplates at all? I know there is room on the passenger side inside of the framerail right by a skidplate on my truck that would be perfect for mounting a compressor.

 

[Positive Vibes]

Does your Ex have skidplates at all? I know there is room on the passenger side inside of the framerail right by a skidplate on my truck that would be perfect for mounting a compressor.

Yes, I have skid plates. I will check but the highest point without mounting in the cab or under the hood is where the spare was (I think).

I will check and see. Thanks.

 

[Positive Vibes]

I got the spare tire bracket removed (heated the rivets up and air chisled them out). Mounted the old metal first aid kit. Cut holes for the air and one for air flow. I mounted the box by drilling holes thru the bed. I like it! Its out of harms way. Also the box quiets the compressor down. Still have a few tiny leaks in the bumper, takes over an hour to leak from 105psi to 85psi. Woohoo! I can now air up at the end of the trails now!