A strong van spare tire carrier fits your exact van and hinge or door layout, holds the spare securely, and puts it where you can reach it; that makes vehicle-specific rear-door mounts the best starting point for most van owners. The Surco TF200 leads this roundup because it fits several Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, and GMC Savana model ranges and can mount on either rear door. Other choices serve narrower needs, including newer Sprinters with 180-degree hinges, older full-size vans, and vans with a 2-inch receiver.
Before choosing, confirm the carrier’s model-year fit, mounting side, hinge requirements, wheel pattern, and whether installation calls for drilling. The list compares those differences rather than treating every carrier as interchangeable.
The Surco TF200 Van Carrier is the best overall choice for many van owners because its listed fit covers Chevrolet Express models from 1996–2025, Ford E-Series from 1992–2013, and GMC Savana from 1996–It mounts to either rear door, uses stainless steel screws, and has welded steel construction with a corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish. If you own a newer Sprinter with 180-degree hinges, the VANNCAMP No-Drill Carrier is a more targeted alternative, but it does not fit 3500 dually models.
Our Top Picks

Fits Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, and GMC Savana ranges and mounts to either rear door, with welded steel construction and stainless steel screws.
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Best No-Drill SprinterTargets 2019–2026 Sprinters with 180° hinges and uses a no-drill bolt-on design; it also excludes 3500 dually models.
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Best Older SprinterProvides a rear-door option for 2001–2006 Dodge, Freightliner, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, fitting either door with stainless steel screws.
View on Amazon- Best Capacity Surco TC100 Chevy Carrier
- Best Hitch Mount CURT 31006 Hitch Carrier
Compare Van Spare Tire Carriers by Fit and Mounting Style
| # | Product | Weight | Material | Compatible with Vehicle Type | dimensions | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Surco TF200 Van CarrierBest Overall | 10 lb | Stainless Steel | — | 38 x 25 x 8 in | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. VANNCAMP No-Drill CarrierBest No-Drill Sprinter | — | — | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Surco TS100-B CarrierBest Older Sprinter | 1.1 lb | Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel | Van | 3 x 34 x 41 in | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Surco TC100 Chevy CarrierBest Capacity | 9.2 lb | Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel | Van | 9 x 27 x 30 in | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Surco TF100 Ford Carrier1980–91 Ford E-Series owners | 1.6 lb | Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel | Van | 38 x 25 x 9 in | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Surco TD100 Dodge CarrierClassic Dodge van owners | 1.57 lb | — | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. Surco ATD100 Dodge CarrierDodge van bolt-on choice | — | — | Van | — | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. VANNCAMP Drilled CarrierSprinter owners accepting drilling | — | — | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. CURT 31006 Hitch CarrierBest Hitch Mount | 16 lb | Alloy Steel | Sport-Utility-Vehicles, Trailer, Truck, Van | — | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Dyno Racing Hitch CarrierAdjustable multi-vehicle carrier | 11 kg | Metal | Car | 33 x 7.87 x 22.13 in | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Van Spare Tire Carrier

#1 · Best Overall
1. Surco TF200 Van Carrier
- Weight: 10 lb
- Material: Stainless Steel
- dimensions: 38 x 25 x 8 in
Best for: Flexible rear-door van fit.
Why it ranks #1: Fits Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, and GMC Savana ranges and mounts to either rear door, with welded steel construction and stainless steel screws.
Mounting on either rear door is the TF200’s key advantage, giving owners a choice of side for carrying the spare while keeping it accessible outside the van. Its stated fit covers Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, and GMC Savana model-year ranges, making it a broad option across several full-size van families.
The welded-steel carrier has a corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish, pairing a sturdy structure with a surface intended to resist corrosion over time. It attaches to the driver- or passenger-side rear door using stainless-steel screws, so the mounting side can suit the van’s layout. Moving the spare to the rear door can free interior space and make the tire easier to reach. The listing includes mounting hardware and specifies fit ranges for three van lines.
- Mounts to either rear door
- Fits listed Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, and GMC Savana years
- Welded-steel construction
- Corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish
- The listed fit does not include Dodge or Sprinter vans.
Skip it if you own a Dodge or Sprinter van; the Surco TS100-B is listed for 2001–06 Sprinters.
Choose this Surco for a listed Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, or GMC Savana when flexible rear-door placement and reclaimed interior space matter. Its stated fit ranges are specific, so it is not a universal van carrier.
Full product details
| Brand | Surco |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Mounting hardware |
| Item Dimensions | 38 x 25 x 8 inches |
| Item Weight | 10 pounds |
| Dimensions | 38 x 25 x 8 inches |
| Manufacturer | Surco |
| Part Number | TF200 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 90 Days against manufacturer defect |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Model Number | TF200 |
Listed on Amazon as: Surco TF200 Van Spare Tire Carrier – Compatible with 1996-25 Chevrolet Express; 1992-13 Ford E-Series; 1996-24 GMC Savana; Mounts to Either Rear Door; Black Finish
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #2: Targets 2019–2026 Sprinters with 180° hinges and uses a no-drill bolt-on design; it also excludes 3500 dually models.
A no-drill bolt-on design is the defining advantage of this VANNCAMP carrier, enabling rear-door spare storage without drilling into the door. It is specified for 2019–2026 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter high-roof vans with 180° hinges, and moves the tire from underneath for easier access and inspection.
The driver-side rear-door mount is limited to Sprinters with 180° hinges; the listing also names select 2020-and-newer Winnebago Revel and Storyteller Overland Sprinter models with those hinges. Relocating the tire from the underbody can make it easier to reach, keep cleaner and drier, and inspect. The no-drill bolt-on approach avoids door drilling, but the carrier does not fit 3500 Dually models. Verify the specified hinge and vehicle application before choosing it.
- No-drill bolt-on design
- Moves the spare from underbody to rear door
- Listed for 2019–2026 Sprinter high-roof vans with 180° hinges
- Also fits select Revel and Storyteller Overland models
- It does not fit 3500 Dually models.
Skip it if you have a Sprinter with incompatible hinges or a 3500 Dually; the drilled VANNCAMP Classic also requires compatible 180° hinges.
Pick this carrier for a compatible high-roof Sprinter or listed conversion when avoiding door drilling and improving spare access are priorities. It is driver-side specific and excludes 3500 Dually models.
Full product details
| Brand | VANNCAMP |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | VANNCAMP |
| Part Number | STJ98-T-AZ |
Listed on Amazon as: VANNCAMP Rear Tire Carrier for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter High Roof Van (2019–2026, 180° Hinges Only), Aluminum Rear Door Mount, No-Drill Bolt-On Design, Pro
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#3 · Best Older Sprinter
3. Surco TS100-B Carrier
- Weight: 1.1 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Van
- dimensions: 3 x 34 x 41 in
Best for: 2001–06 Sprinter owners.
Why it ranks #3: Provides a rear-door option for 2001–2006 Dodge, Freightliner, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, fitting either door with stainless steel screws.
Mounting to either rear door distinguishes the Surco TS100-B, giving owners of listed 2001–2006 Dodge, Freightliner, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans a choice of installation side. The exterior carrier can make the spare easier to reach and help retain interior cargo space.
The carrier’s welded-steel construction is paired with a corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish, supporting its use on a rear door exposed to the elements. Stainless-steel screws are specified for mounting on either the driver or passenger side, providing flexibility around the van’s layout. Rear-door spare storage can keep the tire accessible while preserving interior room. Its stated vehicle application is limited to 2001–2006 Sprinter vans across the three named badges.
- Mounts to either rear door
- Listed for Dodge, Freightliner, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinters from 2001–2006
- Welded-steel construction
- Corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish
- Its listed Sprinter fit ends with 2006 models.
Skip it if you have a 2019–2026 Sprinter with 180° hinges; the VANNCAMP Rear Tire Carrier is listed for those newer models and avoids drilling.
Choose the TS100-B for a listed 2001–2006 Sprinter when either-door placement and keeping the spare outside suit your setup. Its stated fit does not cover newer Sprinter model years.
Full product details
| Brand | Surco |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Van |
| Included Components | Surco TS100-B Tire Carrier for Sprinter Van (2001-2006), Black |
| Item Dimensions | 3 x 34 x 41 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Dimensions | 3 x 34 x 41 inches |
| Manufacturer | Surco |
| Part Number | TS100-B |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 90-day warranty |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel |
| Model Number | TS100-B |
Listed on Amazon as: Surco TS100-B Van Spare Tire Carrier – Compatible with 2001-06 Dodge Sprinter, Freightliner Sprinter, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter; Mounts to Either Rear Door; Black Finish
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#4 · Best Capacity
4. Surco TC100 Chevy Carrier
- Weight: 9.2 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Van
- dimensions: 9 x 27 x 30 in
Best for: Older Chevy van drivers.
Why it ranks #4: Fits 1971–1995 Chevy and GMC full-size vans, mounts on the driver-side rear door, and lists a 150-pound load capacity.
Driver-side rear-door mounting makes the Surco TC100 a targeted spare-carrying option for 1971–1995 Chevy and GMC full-size vans. Moving the tire outside can improve access and preserve interior space, while the specified 150-pound load capacity gives buyers a concrete limit for planning their spare.
The TC100 attaches at the driver-side rear door using existing hinges and bolts plus two stainless-steel screws, tying the installation to the listed van door. Welded alloy-steel construction and a corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish suit its exterior mounting position. Carrying the spare at the rear can free interior cargo room and make it easier to reach. Its 150-pound load capacity is specified, and the included-component description identifies the Chevy and GMC full-size van application.
- Listed for 1971–1995 Chevy and GMC full-size vans
- Driver-side rear-door mounting
- 150-pound load capacity
- Welded-steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- It is limited to the listed 1971–1995 Chevy and GMC full-size vans.
Skip it if you need passenger-side mounting on a Dodge van; the Surco TD100 is listed for passenger-side installation on specified Dodge and Plymouth vans.
This TC100 fits owners of the listed older Chevy and GMC full-size vans who want a driver-side exterior spare and its specified 150-pound capacity. Its vehicle-year and door-side application are narrow.
Full product details
| Brand | Surco |
|---|---|
| Color | black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Van |
| Included Components | Surco TC100 Tire Carrier for Chevy and GMC Full Size Van Driver Side Rear Door (1971-1995) |
| Item Dimensions | 9 x 27 x 30 inches |
| Item Weight | 9.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | 9 x 27 x 30 inches |
| Load Capacity | 150 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Surco |
| Part Number | TC100 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 90 Days against manufacturer defect |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel |
| Model Number | TC100 |
Listed on Amazon as: Surco Chevy Van Tire Carrier (driver door)
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#5
5. Surco TF100 Ford Carrier
- Weight: 1.6 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Van
- dimensions: 38 x 25 x 9 in
Best for: 1980–91 Ford E-Series owners.
Why it ranks #5: Offers a driver-side rear-door fit for 1980–1991 Ford E-Series vans, using existing hinges and bolts plus stainless steel screws.
Driver-side rear-door fit for 1980–1991 Ford E-Series vans gives the Surco TF100 a narrowly defined, model-specific role. Carrying the spare at the rear makes it easier to access from outside and can reclaim interior space, while the listed hinge-based installation uses existing door hardware.
The TF100 mounts on the driver-side rear door using existing hinges and bolts along with two stainless-steel screws, making its mounting approach specific to that door and vehicle application. Welded-steel construction and a corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish support exterior use. Keeping the spare on the rear door can leave more room inside the van and put the tire within easier reach. The listing identifies Ford E-Series vans from 1980 through 1991.
- Listed for 1980–1991 Ford E-Series vans
- Driver-side rear-door mount
- Uses existing hinges and bolts plus stainless-steel screws
- Welded-steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- It is listed only for 1980–1991 Ford E-Series vans.
Skip it if you own a newer Ford E-Series; the Surco TF200 lists later E-Series years and mounts on either rear door.
This TF100 suits owners of 1980–1991 Ford E-Series vans seeking a driver-side exterior spare mount that preserves cabin space. Its specified year range is the key fit boundary.
Full product details
| Brand | Surco |
|---|---|
| Color | black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Van |
| Included Components | Surco TF100 Tire Carrier for Ford Full Size Van (1980-1991) |
| Item Dimensions | 38 x 25 x 9 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | 38 x 25 x 9 inches |
| Manufacturer | Surco |
| Part Number | TF100 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 90 Days against manufacturer defect |
| Material | Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel |
| Model Number | TF100 |
Listed on Amazon as: Surco TF100 Van Spare Tire Carrier – Compatible with 1980-91 Ford E-Series Vans; Driver Side Rear Door Mount; Black Finish
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #6: Fits 1971–2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans and mounts on the passenger-side rear door using existing hinges and bolts.
Passenger-side mounting with the existing hinges and bolts makes the Surco TD100 a focused choice for listed 1971–2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans. Its rear-door position keeps the spare accessible from outside while helping preserve interior cargo room, a practical arrangement for owners who want a model-specific carrier.
The carrier uses the passenger-side rear door and combines existing hinges and bolts with two stainless-steel screws, tying installation to the van’s existing door hardware. Its welded-steel construction and corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish address strength and surface durability for exterior mounting. Placing the spare outside can make it easier to access and leave more room inside. The specified application is limited to Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans from 1971 through 2003.
- Passenger-side rear-door mounting
- Uses existing hinges and bolts plus two stainless-steel screws
- Welded-steel construction
- Corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish
- It is listed only for 1971–2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans.
Skip it if you need driver-side or either-door mounting; the Surco TF200 offers either-side placement on its listed van applications.
This TD100 suits owners of the specified Dodge or Plymouth full-size vans who want an exterior spare and a passenger-side installation using existing door hardware. Its fixed side and listed model years define its fit.
Full product details
| Brand | Surco |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.57 pounds |
| Item model number | TD100 |
| Manufacturer | Surco |
| Part Number | TD100 |
| Model | TD100 |
| Dimensions | 39.01 x 24.86 x 9.24 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Surco TD100 Van Spare Tire Carrier – Compatible with 1971-03 Dodge and Plymouth Full Size Vans; Passenger Side Rear Door Mount; Black Finish
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #7: Targets the same 1971–2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size van fit as the TD100, with passenger-side rear-door bolt-on installation.
Bolt-on passenger-side rear-door installation is the stated approach for the Surco ATD100, a carrier listed for 1971–2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans. Moving the spare outside can improve access and open up interior room, while the fixed side keeps the intended placement clear.
The ATD100 attaches to the passenger-side rear door using existing hinges and bolts plus stainless-steel screws, linking installation to the listed van door hardware. Its welded-steel construction and corrosion-resistant black powder-coat finish suit an exterior mounting location. Rear-door storage can make the spare easier to access and help preserve space in the van. The product listing identifies Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans from 1971 through 2003, so its stated application is not a general fit claim.
- Passenger-side rear-door mounting
- Listed for 1971–2003 Dodge and Plymouth full-size vans
- Uses existing hinges and bolts with stainless-steel screws
- Welded-steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- Passenger-side mounting offers no driver-side placement option.
Skip it if you need a driver-side carrier for an older Chevy or GMC van; the Surco TC100 is listed for those vans.
The ATD100 is appropriate for owners of the specified Dodge or Plymouth full-size vans who want passenger-side spare access and more interior room. The fixed mounting side and vehicle years set its limits.
Full product details
| Brand | Surco |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Van |
| Included Components | Tire Carrier |
| Installation Type | Bolt-On |
| Manufacturer | Surco |
| Part Number | ATD100 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 183 Days against manufacturer defect |
| Model Number | ATD100 |
Listed on Amazon as: Surco ATD100 Van Spare Tire Carrier – Compatible with 1971-03 Dodge and Plymouth Full Size Vans; Passenger Side Rear Door Mount; Black Finish
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #8: Fits 2019–2026 Sprinters with 180° hinges, but requires drilling into the rear door and recommends professional installation.
A drilled rear-door installation separates this VANNCAMP Classic from no-drill options, enabling a carrier for compatible high-roof Sprinters when drilling is acceptable. It is listed for 2019–2026 models with 180° hinges and installs on the driver-side rear door; professional installation is recommended.
The carrier’s aluminum construction provides a different material choice for the rear-door mount, while the matte-black finish is specified for the Classic version. Its application is limited to 2019–2026 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans with 180° rear hinges and a driver-side installation. Unlike a bolt-on no-drill approach, this version requires drilling into the rear door. The listing recommends professional installation for fit, alignment, and long-term stability, so account for that work before choosing it.
- Aluminum construction
- Listed for 2019–2026 Sprinter vans with 180° hinges
- Driver-side rear-door installation
- Matte-black finish
- Installation requires drilling into the rear door.
Skip it if you want to avoid drilling; the VANNCAMP Rear Tire Carrier uses a no-drill bolt-on design for listed Sprinters with 180° hinges.
Choose the VANNCAMP Classic if your compatible high-roof Sprinter has 180° hinges and drilling is acceptable for a driver-side rear-door mount. Its installation requirement and specific hinge fit deserve careful consideration.
Full product details
| Brand | VANNCAMP |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | VANNCAMP |
| Part Number | STJ98-Y-AZ |
Listed on Amazon as: VANNCAMP Aluminum Tire Carrier for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter High Roof Van (2019–2026, 180° Hinges Only), Rear Door Mount, Drilling Required, Matte Black, Classic
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#9 · Best Hitch Mount
9. CURT 31006 Hitch Carrier
- Weight: 16 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Sport-Utility-Vehicles, Trailer, Truck, Van
Best for: Shared 2-inch receiver users.
Why it ranks #9: Uses a standard 2-inch receiver and accommodates multiple wheel sizes, but requires a separately sold hitch pin and bolt-pattern verification.
A 2-inch-square shank lets the CURT 31006 use an industry-standard front or rear receiver, so buyers can choose where to carry a spare rather than mount it to a van door. Its 24-inch height and slotted wheel-mount holes accommodate multiple tire and wheel sizes.
The 24-inch height and slotted mounting holes provide adjustment across multiple tire and wheel sizes, although the wheel’s bolt pattern should be measured before ordering. Multiple shank holes offer positioning options at the receiver, supporting front- or rear-mounted use. High-strength alloy steel provides the carrier’s structural material. The hitch pin and clip are sold separately, and installation requires checking clearance around the bumper, hatch, tailgate, exhaust, and ground.
- Fits a standard 2-inch receiver
- Can mount at the front or rear
- 24-inch height and slotted holes accommodate multiple tire and wheel sizes
- High-strength alloy-steel construction
- Hitch pin and clip are sold separately.
Skip it if you want a door-mounted carrier that frees a receiver; the Surco TF200 mounts directly to either rear door on its listed vans.
The CURT suits van, truck, trailer, or SUV owners with a 2-inch receiver who want front-or-rear placement and adjustable wheel mounting. Check bolt pattern and vehicle clearances, and supply the separate hitch pin and clip.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Sport-Utility-Vehicles, Trailer, Truck, Van |
| Included Components | Hitch Tire Mount |
| Item Weight | 16 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 31006 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Year Parts) |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 31006 |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 31006 Hitch-Mounted Spare Tire Carrier for 2" Receiver, 24" Tall
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#10
10. Dyno Racing Hitch Carrier
- Weight: 11 kg
- Material: Metal
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car
- dimensions: 33 x 7.87 x 22.13 in
Best for: Adjustable multi-vehicle carrier.
Why it ranks #10: Offers an adjustable hitch design for 16- to 24-inch wheels and broad vehicle categories, but lists no van-specific fitment.
An adjustable, foldable design is the central draw of this Dyno Racing carrier, enabling hitch-mounted spare storage with ground-clearance adjustment. The listing covers 16- to 24-inch wheels and names vans, SUVs, trailers, ATVs, UTVs, and RVs, making it a multi-vehicle option.
Its 2-inch receiver hitch connection gives the carrier a defined mounting point, while the foldable adjustable construction is described as providing ample ground clearance and helping protect the spare from scratches. The stated wheel range of 16 to 24 inches lets buyers consider several tire setups. Heavy-duty metal construction is specified for transport in varied weather, and included hardware supports installation. The listing gives a 20-pound load capacity, so account for that limit when selecting a spare.
- Fits listed 16- to 24-inch wheels
- Adjustable foldable construction
- Designed for a 2-inch receiver hitch
- Includes installation hardware
- The stated load capacity is 20 pounds.
Skip it if you need a stated capacity above 20 pounds; the CURT 31006 specifies high-strength steel but does not list a load limit here.
Consider this Dyno Racing mount for a compatible 2-inch receiver and a listed vehicle type when adjustability and folding matter. Its stated 20-pound capacity is a firm boundary to weigh against your spare.
Full product details
| Brand | Dyno Racing |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
| Included Components | Spare Tire Carriers |
| Item Dimensions | 33 x 7.87 x 22.13 inches |
| Item Weight | 11 kg |
| Dimensions | 33 x 7.87 x 22.13 inches |
| Load Capacity | 2E+1 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Dyno Racing |
| Part Number | BX103145 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 Year Manufacturer |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | BX103145 |
Listed on Amazon as: Adjustable RV Spare Tire Carrier Mount for Vans SUVs and Motorhomes, Fits 16" to 24" Wheels, Hitch with 2 Inch Receiver – Spare Tire Carriers
View on AmazonRear-door loading can change how the van works
A rear-door carrier moves the spare out of the underbody area, but it also places the tire’s weight and bulk on a door that must still open and close. The supplied listings do not specify door-load limits, door reinforcement, or whether a tire obstructs a window, so check those details for your exact van before ordering. Hinge compatibility matters especially on newer Sprinters: the VANNCAMP No-Drill Carrier is listed for 180° hinges, while the VANNCAMP Drilled Carrier also requires that hinge type.
Neither listing establishes fit for other hinge layouts. Installation method is another practical distinction: Surco options describe using existing hinges and bolts or stainless screws, while the drilled VANNCAMP version explicitly requires holes in the door.
Plan for access to fasteners and consider whether you are willing to make permanent modifications before choosing a door-mounted design.
Receiver mounts create a clearance and fitment trade-off
A hitch-mounted carrier avoids attaching the spare directly to a rear door, but it adds equipment behind or in front of the van and requires careful clearance checks. The CURT 31006 fits a 2-inch receiver and has multiple shank holes for positioning; its listing says to confirm bumper, hatch, tailgate, exhaust, and ground clearance. Its slotted wheel-mount holes accommodate multiple wheel sizes, but the bolt pattern must be measured and the hitch pin and clip are sold separately.
The Dyno Racing carrier instead lists a 16- to 24-inch wheel range and an adjustable, foldable design, but does not provide a specific van fitment. These are not direct substitutes for vehicle-specific rear-door carriers: confirm receiver size, tire pattern, and the amount of rear access you need.
A carrier that fits the receiver can still interfere with vehicle access or clearance.
How to Choose a Van Spare Tire Carrier
Vehicle and hinge compatibility
Start by matching the carrier to your van’s exact make, model year, and rear-door configuration. The Surco TF200 lists fit for Express models from 1996–2025, E-Series from 1992–2013, and Savana from 1996–2024; the Surco TF100 is for 1980–1991 Ford E-Series. Sprinter choices vary too: Surco TS100-B covers 2001–2006 models, while both VANNCAMP listings specify 2019–2026 models with 180° hinges.
The VANNCAMP no-drill option excludes 3500 dually models. Choose a broad-range carrier only if your vehicle appears in its stated fitment; a newer Sprinter owner should prioritize the hinge-specific option, while an older van owner should select the matching Surco model.
Mounting location and installation
Choose between a rear-door mount and a receiver mount based on your van and installation preference. Surco carriers in this list mount to a specified rear door or, for the TF200 and TS100-B, either rear door; several use existing hinges and bolts plus stainless steel screws. The VANNCAMP No-Drill Carrier is a bolt-on design, whereas the VANNCAMP Drilled Carrier requires drilling into the door.
CURT uses a 2-inch receiver, and its hitch pin and clip are sold separately. Buyers avoiding door drilling can favor the no-drill Sprinter listing or a compatible Surco carrier; buyers who already have a receiver and want a non-door option can consider CURT, after checking clearance and wheel pattern.
Wheel, tire, and load specifications
Verify the wheel’s bolt pattern, tire size, and weight capacity rather than assuming a carrier fits every spare. CURT’s slotted wheel-mount holes accommodate multiple wheel sizes, but its listing specifically says to measure the bolt pattern before ordering. Dyno Racing lists compatibility with 16- to 24-inch wheels.
Surco TC100 specifies a 150-pound load capacity, while the other rear-door listings here do not provide a comparable capacity figure. If you have a wheel within the Dyno Racing range and need an adjustable hitch carrier, that stated range is useful; if your spare is unusually heavy, the TC100’s listed capacity is a concrete specification to compare.
For all other models, confirm capacity and wheel-pattern details with the manufacturer before installation.
Which Van Spare Tire Carrier Should You Choose?
Choose the Surco TF200 Van Carrier if you own a listed Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, or GMC Savana and want a carrier that can mount to either rear door. For a 2019–2026 Sprinter with 180° hinges, choose the VANNCAMP No-Drill Carrier if avoiding door drilling is important; confirm that your van is not a 3500 dually. Owners of 2001–2006 Sprinters can consider the Surco TS100-B Carrier, while older Ford E-Series owners should look at the Surco TF100 Ford Carrier.
For a 1971–1995 Chevy or GMC van, the Surco TC100 Chevy Carrier lists a 150-pound capacity. Choose the CURT 31006 Hitch Carrier only if your van has a 2-inch receiver and the wheel pattern and clearances check out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I verify that a rear-door carrier will fit my van’s hinges and door layout?
Match the carrier’s stated vehicle years and hinge requirements to your van, then check whether it mounts on the driver or passenger door—or either door. Compare the carrier’s mounting points with your actual hinge and door layout, and confirm any special hinge restriction before ordering.
Will moving a spare tire to a rear door affect door operation or visibility?
It can, so consider both door movement and your rearward sightlines before choosing a door-mounted carrier. Check that the tire and carrier do not interfere with opening the door or nearby equipment, and assess visibility from the driver’s seat. Follow the carrier’s installation instructions and verify operation after mounting.
What should I check about wheel bolt pattern and tire clearance before installation?
Confirm that the carrier’s wheel-mounting arrangement matches your spare’s bolt pattern, then check that the tire clears the door, body, lights, and other nearby components. For a hitch carrier, also verify the receiver size and available clearance. Do not assume fit from wheel diameter alone.
How should I choose between a rear-door carrier and a hitch-mounted carrier?
Choose based on your van’s compatible mounting points and the carrier’s listed requirements. A door-mounted option needs a matching door layout and hinge fit; the CURT 31006 requires a 2-inch receiver. Check wheel pattern and tire clearance for either style before selecting a carrier.
What should Sprinter owners confirm before choosing a carrier?
Match the carrier to your Sprinter’s model years and hinge setup, and check its installation method. The listed VANNCAMP options are for 2019–2026 high-roof Sprinters with 180-degree hinges; the no-drill version excludes 3500 dually models. The Surco TS100-B lists 2001–2006 Sprinters.
Final Words
Start with your van’s make, model year, door layout, and hinge type, then check the carrier’s stated fit and installation method. The Surco TF200 is the broadest listed match for Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, and GMC Savana owners who want either-door mounting. Sprinter owners should match the hinge and model-year requirements carefully.
Consider the CURT hitch option only with a 2-inch receiver and verified wheel fit and clearance.




