I'm working on getting my frame cleaned-up and am considering mounting the spare tire carrier (which has never been on the car) on the back of my Speedster. Problem is, the U brackets that hold the rear springs to the crossmember also hold the carrier, and when they are seated properly on the axle (round tabs in the axle holes), the nuts can't be tightened (see photos). I can get the nuts on if the brackets are moved, but to get them to seat on the axle properly, I'll need to drill new seat-holes in the axle in where the tabs are now located. Please take a look and let me know if you think this will cause any problems, or if you see a better option. I could leave it off entirely. Thanks for all input.
I believe I would use a torch to heat up the angle in the tire carrier and move it over just enough to slightly bend or move the angle outwards to allow the U brackets to line up with the holes in the frame.
It wouldn't take much. Fairly simple fix.
Or pull the bolts back out of the holes put nut on down low and run threads up thru it, nut will be captured can't get out
John K and John D - Thanks to both of you. I did try to put the nuts on low, as the bolt comes through the carrier, but they are large castle nuts, and there's just no room for them to start the thread. Would rather not replace with smaller ones, so I'll think I'll try the torch to open up the carrier brackets a bit. Thanks again.
That looks like a neat after-market bracket. I think I would try what John K said. I would probably add a little brace to the body also.
Drive carefully, and enjoy, W2
Thanks, Wayne. The body is still in need of major work and rebuilding - this was just a test fit to see if the angle of the carrier was about right and how it would mount. Appreciate the input. I'll definitely heat the brackets and open them up some to fit the nuts on the U bolts.