Tuesday, March 31, 2020

The Silver Subie Grows Up



With the new, larger tires on the Silver Subie, I needed to make a better spot for the spare tire to ride since it doesn't fit in the tire well. I really wanted a swing-away tire mount on the back but it would require a custom build and more dollars than I wanted to invest in a 15 year old vehicle. Finally, after much dithering on my part, a pallet with a big black container showed up on the doorstep.

I added a piece of baltic birch (because that's what I had in stock) plywood to make an attach point for the spare tire and to spread the load.

I wanted a long eye bolt but settled for a hook bolt since that was all I could find. Turns out, it holds very securely and it's easier to get the spare tire held in place.

The cargo box was bigger than I wanted but the smallest I could find that had enough width to accept the spare. I could have gone with an open (and cheaper) roof rack but I think this solution will have less drag thanks to its streamlined shape.

This little gizmo is wonderful. It lives under the front passenger seat but makes access to the rooftop cargo box much easier.

As best I can tell, the roof top solution costs me about 1 mile per gallon, but this is still more than 50% better gas mileage than the truck so I'm happy.

10 comments:

  1. Looking good. I'm still looking forward to riding shotgun on a trip around the desert.

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    1. I expect we'll be able to arrange that next time you're in the desert.

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  2. As usual your skills come up with a great solution. We too have a similar door step, these things are great!
    Good to see you back on the blog. Stay safe!

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    1. Thanks, Jeff. That step is a brilliant, simple idea. Wish I'd had one years ago!.

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  3. I love how you accessorize! Gotta now find me an excuse to get me a gizmo!

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    1. Glad you decided to head home when you did! Travel seems to be something to dream about right now. :-(

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  4. How have I never known about that little gizmo? A bit spendy but could save some kayak loading frustration.

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    1. I was a bit surprised at the price but I really like it. Would be great for tying down boats as long as you could get them into the rack before you tried to use it.

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  5. Edit - That little orange step gizzmo is soooo cool!

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