Answering the most common buyer question: which spare tire carriage bolts kits provide reliable mounting hardware for trailers and spare tire mounts? This guide highlights five solid options, focusing on kits that include carriage bolts, hex nuts, and washers. Each choice suits different needs—from stainless steel for outdoor use to complete sets that save time and prevent missing parts. Ideal buyers include trailer owners, DIY upfitters, and repair technicians seeking durable, ready-to-install hardware.
| Product | Thread Size | Material | Includes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spare Tire Mounting Hardware Kit for Utility & Cargo Trailers | Not specified | Generic | Carriage bolts (as listed) | Budget upfits, simple trailer mounts |
| OUSCHR 1/4-20 x 1 Carriage Bolt Kit | 1/4-20 | 304 Stainless Steel | 12 bolts, 12 nuts, 12 washers | Corrosion resistance, outdoor use |
| Scott Drake C4ZZ-14244862-K Spare Tire Mounting Kit | Not specified | Unknown (Scott Drake quality note) | Spare tire mounting carriage bolts (kit) | OEM-inspired mounting hardware |
| 5/16-18 x 5 Inch Carriage Bolt Kit (Glvaner) | 5/16-18 | 304 Stainless Steel | 6 bolts, 6 nuts, 6 washers | High-strength, corrosion-resistant outdoor use |
| 15 Sets 1/4-20 x 2 Carriage Bolt Kit (kvohlum) | 1/4-20 | Carbon steel with black coating | 15 bolts, 15 nuts, 15 washers | Budget-friendly, complete kit |
Spare Tire Mounting Hardware Kit for Utility & Cargo Trailers
This generic kit provides the carriage bolts commonly found on trailer spare tire mounts. It is best for budget-conscious buyers assembling or repairing trailer tires where standard hardware fits existing mounts. Selection is straightforward, with minimal parts for quick installation.
Best for: Basic trailer setups, lower-cost projects, and quick replacements that require standard carriage bolts.
Caution: Verify compatibility with your specific spare tire mount pattern to avoid fit issues.
OUSCHR 1/4-20 x 1 Carriage Bolt Kit
This stainless steel 304 bolt kit offers excellent corrosion resistance and a complete package: 12 bolts, 12 hex nuts, and 12 washers. The round head square neck design helps prevent spinning during installation. Best for outdoor applications where moisture resistance matters.
Best for: Outdoor trailers, environments with humidity or salt exposure, and users who want a complete, ready-to-install set.
Limitation: Stainless steel can be more expensive than basic zinc options, but longevity justifies the cost in weathered conditions.
Scott Drake C4ZZ-14244862-K Spare Tire Mounting Kit
From Scott Drake, this kit emphasizes quality construction for spare tire mounting. While explicit material details aren’t specified, the brand association suggests a focus on fit and finish for automotive applications. Best for: Enthusiasts seeking OEM-style hardware and a trusted brand name.
Caution: Check exact thread requirements for your mount because the listing does not specify the thread diameter or pitch.
5/16-18 x 5 Inch Carriage Bolt Kit (Glvaner)
This kit delivers robust stainless steel carriage bolts with a 5-inch length and 5/16-18 threads, including hex nuts and flat washers. Engineered to ANSI B18.5 standards, it ensures precise threading and a reliable fit for demanding outdoor use. Best for: Heavier spare tire mounts and projects needing longer carriage bolts for thick mounting plates.
Limitation: The set is sized around 5-inch bolts; ensure your mounting hardware requires this length to avoid over-penetration or insufficient engagement.
15 Sets 1/4-20 x 2 Carriage Bolt Kit (kvohlum)
This bundle provides 15 bolts, 15 hex nuts, and 15 flat washers with a 2-inch length and coarse 1/4-20 threads. The black-coated carbon steel construction offers solid strength at a reasonable price. Best for: Complete sets for quick upfits or replacements where color matching to existing mounts matters.
Limitation: Carbon steel with black coating may not withstand extreme moisture as long as stainless options; consider environment when choosing.
Buying Guide
What thread size do I need?
Spare tire mounts commonly use 1/4-20 or 5/16-18 threads. Verify your existing hardware or the spare tire wheel stud pattern to select the correct size. Mismatched threads can strip or fail under load.
Which material lasts longest outdoors?
Stainless steel (like 304) offers the best corrosion resistance for outdoor trailer use. Carbon steel with a protective coating is a budget-friendly alternative but may require more maintenance in harsh environments.
How many parts should be in a kit?
Look for kits that include bolts, nuts, and washers. A complete kit reduces the risk of missing parts during installation and ensures compatibility with standard spare tire mounts.
Are longer bolts better?
Longer bolts can secure thicker mounting plates but may protrude past the mounting surface. Ensure the bolt length fits the total stack-up of your mounting hardware without interference with wheel components.
What about warranty and replacement parts?
Some kits advertise warranties or are backed by regional distributors. If a warranty is important, choose a kit from a reputable brand or one that explicitly states coverage terms.
Installation tips
- Align the bolt holes before tightening to prevent cross-threading.
- Use the appropriate hex nuts and washers to spread load and prevent loosening.
- Check torque specs if provided by the mounting hardware to avoid over-tightening.
FAQ
- What is a carriage bolt’s main advantage for trailer tires?
Carriage bolts feature a square neck that locks into the mounting surface, helping prevent turning during tightening and providing a secure fit.
- Are stainless steel bolts compatible with galvanized mounting plates?
Yes, but confirm that the bolt length and head type match your plate. Stainless bolts are favored for outdoor exposure and reduced corrosion risk.
- Can I mix bolts from different kits?
Mixing is possible if thread size, length, and head type match. Use caution to ensure uniform load distribution.
- Do these kits include all necessary hardware for spare tire mounting?
Most listed kits include bolts, nuts, and washers. Verify the exact contents in each product description to avoid missing parts.
- Which kit is best for budget trailer maintenance?
Budget-friendly options with carbon steel and black coatings (like the kvohlum kit) offer good value, but stainless steel variants provide longer life in harsh conditions.