C2 Tire Tub/Spare Tire

[John Lokay]

I recently purchased a spare tire for my '66 (standard wheel, BFG whitewall bias tire made by Coker) and once I position the tire in the tub I can not get the lid to fully seat against the bottom of the tire tub. While I have been able to close it with the bolt inserted into the "V" shaped support there is about a 3/4 inch gap between the botom of the tite tub and cover at the area where the bolt and "V" shaped support lock. Is this correct? Also, the the front bolts that attach to the frame through the "V" shaped support are the correct length for the standard wheel and I actually loosened each bolt a couple of thread lenghts to drop them down a little to help close the lid (should these bolts be fully seated into the frame?) Am I missing somthing here? Thanks for the help.

[Charles A.]

Re: C2 Tire Tub/Spare Tire

Somewhere in the archives there is a posting about different size bolts that are available to solve the problem. Check the archives under spare tire or tires and you should find it.

[John H.]

Re: C2 Tire Tub/Spare Tire

John -

The reproduction tires are "fatter" in cross-section than the original 7.75-15's, and are also slightly larger in diameter; you might try the longer (10-1/4") front hanger bolts that were used with gold-line tires. Yes, the front hanger bolts should be tightened against the frame or they'll loosen up. In any case, doubt that you'll be able to get the tray completely "flush" with the sides of the upper tub due to the fatter tire cross-section.

[Joe C.]

Re: C2 Tire Tub/Spare Tire

John;

The tire storage tub should never close tightly because if it did, then the spare tire would rattle around inside of it. The tire is slightly compressed when the rear bolt is tightened, and this is an effective antirattle device. Three quarters of an inch is well within the norm.

Joe