Finding the right spare tire carrier rack for your van means balancing durability, ease of installation, and compatibility. The Surco TS100-B offers heavy-duty steel build and quick rear door mounting, ideal for standard-sized tires on newer Sprinters. The Surco TD100 provides a reliable, hinges-based mount for classic Dodge and Plymouth vans, but requires drilling and model-specific fit. Meanwhile, the Surco TF100 is a rugged choice for Ford E-Series vans, with straightforward installation on the driver side. Lastly, the Surco ATD100S suits classic Dodge/Plymouth models on the passenger side, but demands precise drilling and is limited to standard tires. Each option balances space-saving design with different compatibility and installation needs, so understanding your van’s model and tire size is key.
Key Takeaways
- Heavy-duty welded steel construction ensures durability across all options.
- Installation complexity varies, with some models requiring drilling and others mounting via existing hinges.
- Compatibility is tightly linked to van model and tire size; not all carriers fit oversized tires.
- Side of mounting (driver vs. passenger) impacts accessibility and installation specifics.
- Made in the USA, most options offer corrosion resistance, but not all are suitable for extra-wide tires.
| Surco TS100-B Van Spare Tire Carrier |  | Best Overall for Sprinter Vans | Compatibility: 2001-2006 Dodge, Freightliner, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | Material: Welded steel | Finish: Black powder coat | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Surco TD100 Van Spare Tire Carrier |  | Best for Classic Dodge and Plymouth Vans | Compatibility: 1971-2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans | Finish: Black powder coat | Material: Welded steel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Surco TF100 Van Spare Tire Carrier |  | Best for Ford E-Series Vans | Compatibility: 1980-1991 Ford E-Series Vans | Mounting Location: Driver side rear door | Finish: Black powder coat | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Surco ATD100S Van Spare Tire Carrier |  | Best for Classic Dodge and Plymouth Vans, Passenger Side | Compatibility: 1971-2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans | Material: Welded steel | Finish: Black powder coat | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| spare tire carrier rack for van | Compatibility | Material | Finish | Mounting Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surco TS100-B Van Spare Tire C | 2001-2006 Dodge, Freightliner, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | Welded steel | Black powder coat | Rear door |
| Surco TD100 Van Spare Tire Car | 1971-2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans | Welded steel | Black powder coat | — |
| Surco TF100 Van Spare Tire Car | 1980-1991 Ford E-Series Vans | Welded steel | Black powder coat | Driver side rear door |
| Surco ATD100S Van Spare Tire C | 1971-2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans | Welded steel | Black powder coat | Passenger side rear door |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Surco TS100-B Van Spare Tire Carrier
The Surco TS100-B stands out for its heavy-duty welded steel construction, offering excellent durability for frequent use. Its black powder coat finish resists corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor conditions. This carrier mounts directly to the rear door of 2001-2006 Dodge, Freightliner, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, which makes it a top choice for newer van owners seeking a space-saving solution. Compared with other options, it’s easier to install and provides quick access to the spare, but it’s limited to standard-sized tires and doesn’t accommodate oversized tires. The need for drilling during installation is a minor inconvenience for those seeking a sturdy, space-efficient carrier.
Pros:- Heavy-duty welded steel construction for long-term durability
- Corrosion-resistant black powder coat finish
- Easy to install with stainless steel screws
- Space-saving design increases interior cargo space
Cons:- Limited to standard-sized spare tires
- Requires drilling for installation
- Not compatible with oversized or wide tires
Best for: Owners of 2001-2006 Sprinter vans needing a durable, space-saving carrier for standard tires.
Not ideal for: Those with oversized or extra-wide tires, or who prefer a no-drill installation.
- Compatibility:2001-2006 Dodge, Freightliner, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
- Material:Welded steel
- Finish:Black powder coat
- Mounting Location:Rear door
- Tire Size:Standard spare tires
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“This carrier offers an excellent balance of durability and space efficiency for Sprinter owners with standard tires.”
Surco TD100 Van Spare Tire Carrier
The Surco TD100 excels in providing a rugged, hinges-based mounting solution for full-size Dodge and Plymouth vans from 1971 to 2003. Its black powder-coated welded steel ensures durability, and it mounts directly to the passenger side rear door using existing hinges and bolts—eliminating the need for complicated modifications. Compared to the Sprinter-focused TS100-B, this model is more suited for older vans, but its installation is more involved, requiring drilling and precise alignment. It’s ideal for owners who value a sturdy, reliable carrier but are comfortable with a more involved setup process.
Pros:- Heavy-duty welded steel for durability
- Corrosion-resistant black powder coat
- Mounts securely using existing hinges and bolts
- Space-saving design improves interior cargo capacity
Cons:- Requires drilling and precise installation
- Limited to specific van models and years
- Not suitable for oversized or wide tires
Best for: Owners of vintage Dodge or Plymouth full-size vans seeking a robust, hinge-mounted spare tire solution.
Not ideal for: Owners of newer vans or those seeking an easy, no-drill installation.
- Compatibility:1971-2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans
- Finish:Black powder coat
- Material:Welded steel
- Installation:Mounts to passenger side rear door, drilling required
- Tire Compatibility:Standard spare tires
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“Best suited for vintage van owners prioritizing durability and a secure hinge mount, despite installation complexity.”
Surco TF100 Van Spare Tire Carrier
The Surco TF100 is tailored for Ford E-Series vans from 1980 to 1991, mounting on the driver side rear door. Its heavy-duty welded steel construction and black powder coat finish guarantee longevity and resistance to the elements. This model is straightforward to install using existing hinges and bolts, similar in ease to the Sprinter TS100-B, but it’s specifically designed for classic E-Series vans. Compared with other options, it offers a good balance of durability and ease of access, though it’s limited to standard spare tires and requires drilling during installation.
Pros:- Heavy-duty welded steel for durability
- Corrosion-resistant black powder coat
- Easily mounts using existing hinges and bolts
- Space-efficient design
Cons:- Limited to standard-sized tires
- Requires drilling for installation
- Restricted to Ford E-Series vans
Best for: Owners of Ford E-Series vans needing a durable, easy-to-install spare tire carrier on the driver side.
Not ideal for: Those with oversized tires or seeking a passenger side mount.
- Compatibility:1980-1991 Ford E-Series Vans
- Mounting Location:Driver side rear door
- Finish:Black powder coat
- Material:Welded steel
- Installation:Requires drilling
- Designed for:Standard spare tires
Our verdict“This carrier provides a sturdy, straightforward option for Ford E-Series owners looking for reliable rear door mounting.”
Surco ATD100S Van Spare Tire Carrier
The Surco ATD100S is a heavy-duty steel carrier designed for Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans from 1971 to 2003, mounting on the passenger side rear door. Its welded steel construction and high-quality black powder coat finish ensure durability and corrosion resistance. Installation involves drilling and mounting using hinges, bolts, and stainless steel screws, making it somewhat involved. Compared to side-specific options, this carrier is ideal for those who prefer passenger side access for convenience and want a tough, long-lasting solution. However, it’s only suitable for standard-sized tires and may not fit all van configurations.
Pros:- Heavy-duty welded steel construction
- Corrosion-resistant black powder coat
- Easy to install with existing hinges and bolts
- Made in the USA for quality assurance
Cons:- Requires drilling during installation
- Limited to standard-sized tires
- Compatibility varies across van models
Best for: Classic van owners needing a durable, passenger side spare tire carrier.
Not ideal for: Owners of oversized tires or those seeking a no-drill solution.
- Compatibility:1971-2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans
- Material:Welded steel
- Finish:Black powder coat
- Mounting Location:Passenger side rear door
- Installation:Requires drilling
- Designed for:Standard spare tires
Our verdict“This carrier is a reliable choice for classic van owners prioritizing durability and passenger side access, despite installation complexity.”
How We Picked
To select the best spare tire carriers for vans, I examined compatibility with popular van models, material durability, ease of installation, and space-saving benefits. I prioritized products with steel construction and corrosion-resistant finishes for long-lasting performance, while also considering mounting options that minimize vehicle alteration. I balanced cost with features, ensuring each pick offers real value for different types of van owners—from those with newer Sprinters to classic full-size vans. The goal was to identify solutions that deliver reliable performance, straightforward installation, and compatibility with standard spare tires, while clearly delineating tradeoffs like size limitations and installation requirements.
| spare tire carrier rack for van | Mounting Location | Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Surco TS100-B Van Spare Tire C | Rear door | — |
| Surco TD100 Van Spare Tire Car | — | Mounts to passenger side rear door, drilling required |
| Surco TF100 Van Spare Tire Car | Driver side rear door | Requires drilling |
| Surco ATD100S Van Spare Tire C | Passenger side rear door | Requires drilling |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Spare Tire Carrier Rack For Vans
Selecting the right spare tire carrier for your van depends on your vehicle model, tire size, and installation preferences. To make a smart choice, consider whether you prefer a rear door mount on the driver or passenger side, and whether your van’s specific model supports drilling or hinge-based mounting. Durability and corrosion resistance matter if you plan to use the carrier frequently or in varied weather. Compatibility with standard versus oversized tires can influence your options, especially for classic versus modern vans. This guide helps you weigh these factors to match your needs with the best available product.
Compatibility and Vehicle Model
Ensure the carrier you choose matches your van’s make and year. Some models are tailored for specific vehicles, like the Sprinter or Ford E-Series, while others are designed for classic full-size vans. Double-check the compatibility list to avoid installation issues or incompatible mounting points.
Installation and Mounting Options
Consider whether you’re comfortable with drilling or prefer a hinge-based mount that uses existing hardware. Hinge-mounted carriers tend to be easier to install and remove, but they are limited to specific models. Drilling provides a more permanent and secure attachment but involves more effort and precision during installation.
Durability and Material
Steel construction with a corrosion-resistant finish ensures longevity, especially if you plan to use your van in harsh weather conditions. Powder coating adds an extra layer of protection, preventing rust and extending the life of your carrier.
Size and Tire Compatibility
Most carriers are designed for standard-sized spare tires. If you own oversized or wide tires, verify the carrier’s capacity before purchasing. Some models are not suitable for larger tires, which could limit your options if your vehicle has custom or heavy-duty tires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a spare tire carrier on any van?
Not all vans are compatible with every carrier. It’s important to check your van’s model, year, and rear door configuration. Some carriers are designed specifically for certain models or require specific mounting points, so verifying compatibility before purchase is essential.
Is drilling necessary for all spare tire carriers?
Most carriers, especially those mounted on rear doors using existing hinges, do not require drilling. However, many models—particularly those mounted on the outside of the door—do need drilling to secure the carrier. Always review the installation instructions for your chosen model.
Will a spare tire carrier fit oversized tires?
Typically, most standard carriers are designed for regular-sized spare tires. If you have oversized or wide tires, you should verify the carrier’s maximum tire width and diameter before purchasing. Many carriers are not rated for larger tires, which can lead to fitment issues.
How durable are these carriers in harsh weather?
Steel carriers with powder-coat finishes generally resist rust and corrosion, making them suitable for outdoor use. Look for models made in the USA or with high-quality coatings for the best longevity, especially if you frequently drive in wet or salty conditions.
Are these carriers easy to remove if needed?
Hinge-mounted carriers are often easier to remove since they use existing hardware and require less disassembly. Carriers that require drilling may involve more effort to detach, but many designs allow for removal with basic tools if needed for maintenance or vehicle modifications.
Conclusion
This roundup offers options tailored to different owners: those with newer Sprinters should consider the Surco TS100-B for its ease and durability; vintage van owners will find the Surco TD100 a reliable choice despite its installation complexity; Ford E-Series drivers will appreciate the Surco TF100 for straightforward rear door mounting; and classic Dodge or Plymouth owners needing passenger side access might prefer the Surco ATD100S. Carefully matching your van’s model, tire size, and installation preferences will lead to the best fit.
