Aftermarket bumper spare tire access - 1st gen

A previous owner installed a homebuilt bumper on my first gen. There isn't enough of a gap between the top of the bumper and tailgate to get the tool in to turn the windlass to lower the spare. Is this common for aftermarket steel bumpers? I'd really like to be able to access the spare without removing the bumper.

 

so someone modified the truck to meet their needs. now the truck was sold to you, and it doesn't meet your needs.

sounds like the modifications need to be taken further so the current modifications can suit your needs.


just be careful. it's a slippery slope to exo-cages and bobbed beds.

 

Not the worst call, I don't have the skill to mod the bumper without it looking like hot garbage yet. I figure I'll start by moving the spare to the bed while I figure out a long term solution (which may be buying a welder ).

 

depending on where you're at in arizona, there's also a decent chance that some other members are nearby and already have those fabrication capabilities. at least another option to consider

 

Most folks I know with modified tacomas have tires too large for the stock spare location anyway. I'd just pop a hole in there and if you want to undo it later a welder and some steel will have it fixed right up.

 

That's very true, I should ask around. What I'd want is pretty simple I think, shouldn't be too difficult.

That's a good solution, my 33s should fit in the stock location, especially with a new exhaust. And I probably won't go bigger than a 33. I think.

 

Looks like a good excuse to start building the tool collection! Alternatively you may be able to remove the tailgate and gain access to the crane assembly. Might be worth a shot.