Introduction

Want a functional, space-saving spare tire carrier on your Ford Bronco II or similar SUV without welding?

This guide shows you how to build a folding tire carrier and receiver mount using off-the-shelf parts, basic hand tools, and a bolt-on receiver hitch.

By following this tutorial, you’ll learn how to:

  • Assemble a folding tire carrier using a Curt Manufacturing 31006 Spare Tire Mount and a folding receiver bar
  • Modify the carrier to fit your vehicle and receiver hitch
  • Mount your spare tire securely with carriage bolts and hardware
  • Maintain rear hatch clearance while using a receiver-mounted spare

This step-by-step guide is perfect for DIY SUV enthusiasts who want a reliable, easy-to-install spare tire solution without specialized welding equipment.

Parts used in this build are readily available from Amazon and automotive suppliers, making it an accessible upgrade for most Bronco II owners.

Parts Needed

Hitch Haul Folding Receiver Bar

Curt Manufacturing 31006 Spare Tire Mount

(3) Carriage bolts, nuts, washers, and lock washers to retain your spare tire to the carrier.

Explanation / Process

The tire carrier you’re going to build is made up from a Curt Manufacturing Spare Tire carrier, and folding receiver bar.

You’ll need a receiver hitch on the back of your vehicle. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to buy one. You can buy a complete bolt on hitch:

Or add one on to a step bumper:

The folding receiver bar is shown below with a receiver mount hitch haul tire carrier attached to it.

You’re going to modify the tire carrier by cutting the receiver bar off if it.

Once you cut the receiver bar off, you’ll need to drill a 1/2-inch hole up 2-inches from the bottom.

Once this is done, you can bolt the tire carrier into the folding receiver.

Once the receiver is mounted to the vehicle, you’ll need your (3) carriage bolts and hardware to bolt your spare tire on to the mount. You may want to cut off the section where a hitch ball mounts if your tire hits it and keeps your rear hatch from opening all the way.

 

Where To Get The Parts

Folding Receiver Bar – Amazon

Curt Manufacturing 31006 Spare Tire Mount – Amazon

Update

Since this article was originally written I see that there are companies making a Folding Tire Carrier like the one below.

 

Last Updated:

About The Author

Jim Oaks is a longtime Ford truck and SUV enthusiast and the founder of The Ranger Station and Bronco II Corral. With decades of hands-on experience, he writes both technical and non-technical articles covering the Ford Bronco II, including mechanical systems, factory engineering, common upgrades, and detailed feature vehicle write-ups.

In addition to technical content, Jim documents Bronco II history, rare factory and aftermarket models, production details, and original Ford marketing materials. His work is based on firsthand experience, original documentation, and long-term involvement in the Ford enthusiast community.

Through his sites, Jim has built comprehensive reference libraries that serve owners, builders, restorers, collectors, and historians, helping preserve the Bronco II’s technical knowledge and historical significance.