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The BAL Hide-A-Spare moves a compatible spare tire from a bumper or cargo area to a sliding carrier beneath a trailer. The concept can free exterior space and lower the spare’s location, but the correct kit depends on frame spacing, tire and wheel dimensions, underbody clearance, and safe attachment points.
Quick verdict
A useful storage upgrade when the exact carrier matches the trailer and remains accessible without reducing critical ground clearance. It should be skipped when tanks, plumbing, wiring, suspension travel, structure, or weight limits make the under-frame location unsuitable.
Who this fits best
- Travel trailers with a compatible exposed frame and a verified kit size
- Owners wanting to free bumper or storage-compartment space
- Campers able to inspect and access the spare regularly
Pre-purchase checklist
- Measure frame-to-frame width at the proposed mounting location.
- Check tire diameter, width, wheel center, carrier capacity, and kit hardware.
- Inspect tanks, plumbing, wiring, steps, stabilizers, axle travel, and departure clearance.
- Confirm the trailer manufacturer permits installation at that structural location.
Fit is a three-dimensional problem
Frame width alone is not enough. The spare must clear the road, suspension movement, tanks, plumbing, crossmembers, and the slide path throughout operation. Measure with the trailer safely supported according to its manuals, and remember that loaded suspension height can differ from driveway conditions.
Weight does not disappear
Moving a spare changes where its weight acts on the trailer. The tire, wheel, carrier, and hardware all count toward cargo capacity and can affect tongue weight depending on location. Reweigh the travel-ready trailer after material changes and stay within every frame, axle, tire, and gross rating.
Roadside access and inspection
A hidden spare is useful only if it can be reached when needed. Practice releasing and sliding the carrier on safe level ground, keep the mechanism clean, and inspect fasteners and corrosion. Maintain spare pressure and condition; under-frame storage does not protect rubber from age or road exposure.
Bottom line
A useful storage upgrade when the exact carrier matches the trailer and remains accessible without reducing critical ground clearance. It should be skipped when tanks, plumbing, wiring, suspension travel, structure, or weight limits make the under-frame location unsuitable. Verify the exact model, current specifications, and compatibility before ordering, because manufacturers and marketplace listings can change.
Sources and editorial note
RVGearScout reviewed manufacturer information and safety guidance for this article. This is an independent research-based guide; it does not claim hands-on testing.
Featured photo by NIR HIMI on Unsplash.