I would like to install a rack on the back on my T that I can carry an extra spare along with some extra fuel. Anybody try to install a rack like this jeep type on their T?

I've seen a few of those garvins, they aren't as sexy as you'd like them to be. Search around on 4runner forums, you should finds some nice stuff that you may be able to adapt.

thx

you live in fab country. go get it made.

That seems to be your answer for everything. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> I was just trying to see if anyone had tried this idea and get some pros and cons. Like would it be too much weight that far back on nthe truck, would I need to install an aal, could it be attached to the side wall of the bed or would a custom bumper be better, etc.

If you get something like that, all I can say is be critical of the hinge. I have a custom rear bumper with a Rockstomper hinge that's actually a trailer axle. No less than 2 people on various forums (one Taco and one 3rd gen 4Runner) have had their Rockstomper hinge fatigue and the spindle break off, allowing the spare tire to literally drop off the truck. I recently noticed that one of the tapered bearing races was cracked inside my hinge and I had noticed it had more vibration lately. I really don't care for the high likelihood and liability of mine falling off sometime in the future. My spindle didn't break off, but I've retired the use of my spare tire rack until I can figure out a better hinge, most likely with a double shear design.

That seems to be the one design flaw with the system having a single hinge on the bumper. What about a dual hinge version that actually attaches to the truck body, or a custom bumper with a welded vertical pipe that could have the rack attached with two hinges? Seems like that would be more stable with less chance of fatigue. Although blocking the tailgate or the rear lights could be an issue.

Wouldn't the vertical welded pipe still be the weakest link? Where the pipe meets the bumper, same as where the single pivot point does on the Rockstomper?

it is my answer because i am jealous that you have all those folks so close. i'd have my ass parked at shaffer's in carson city for rob to bend me front and rear bumpers and sliders and an exo. he is that good. make the drive. he'll do it over a weekend.

I plan to have the truck at bentup for a weekend in January, if I like the front bumper then I'll do the back not to long afterwards. Gotta get setup for the baja trip next fall. Trying to decide over a regular camper shell or an actual camper type device