Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock Review

Let’s Talk About Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock

The Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock isn’t exactly the kind of product that sets pulses racing, but trust me, when you’re stranded on the side of a dusty trail with a flat and no way to mount your spare, you’ll wish you’d given it more thought. Made by Dutton-Lainson, a name synonymous with reliable trailer hardware, this carrier aims to provide a universal solution for securing your spare tire to your trailer tongue. Its extra length to accommodate wider tires or trailer tongues is a key feature, alongside its compatibility with 4 or 5-hole rims and zinc-plated TUFFPLATE finish.

My old pop-up camper project was missing a critical piece: a reliable spare tire carrier. Countless times, I’d been jury-rigging a system using bungee cords and sheer hope, a strategy that was both embarrassing and deeply unsafe. I needed something robust, adaptable, and above all, dependable to finally ditch that precarious setup.

Upon unboxing, the Dutton-Lainson carrier felt reassuringly solid. The zinc plating gave it a slightly industrial but functional look, and the overall weight suggested a decent gauge of steel. It’s a simple design, but sometimes, that’s exactly what you need: something that will work without fuss.

I considered a couple of alternatives, including a more elaborate carrier with an integrated locking mechanism and another that was specifically designed for smaller tires. Ultimately, the Dutton-Lainson model won out due to its stated universal fit and the promise of accommodating wider tires – a must-have for my slightly oversized camper tires. The affordable price point also played a significant role.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It’s not flashy, but it looks like it will get the job done. The proof, of course, would be in the mounting and the long-term performance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock came during a weekend camping trip to the nearby Ocala National Forest. The terrain there ranges from smooth paved roads to deeply rutted dirt trails, a perfect proving ground. Installation was straightforward, taking about 30 minutes with basic hand tools.

The carrier performed admirably on the paved sections. However, the real test came on the rougher trails. I was concerned about rattling or shifting, but the Dutton-Lainson carrier held the spare tire securely in place, even when navigating some surprisingly bumpy sections. There was a slight squeak on some of the larger bumps, which I’ll address later.

There was a slight learning curve in terms of tightening the lug nuts effectively to prevent any wobble. Initially, I didn’t tighten them enough, and there was a noticeable vibration. A quick adjustment solved the problem, highlighting the importance of proper installation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple camping trips and even a cross-state move, the Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of structural weakness, and the zinc plating is still effectively preventing rust, despite exposure to rain, mud, and road salt.

There’s been minimal wear and tear, just a few minor scratches on the plating. The squeaking I experienced during the initial test has largely disappeared, possibly due to the lug nuts seating properly over time.

Compared to my previous bungee cord setup, the Dutton-Lainson carrier is a night-and-day improvement. It provides genuine peace of mind, knowing that my spare tire is securely mounted and readily accessible. It has absolutely outperformed my expectations, particularly given the low price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock

Specifications

The Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock boasts a few key specifications that contribute to its functionality:

• Universal Fit: Designed to accommodate most 4 and 5-hole rims, making it compatible with a wide range of trailer tires. This adaptability simplifies the selection process and increases the likelihood of a successful fit.
• Extended Length: Provides ample space for mounting wider tires or spanning wider trailer tongues, offering greater versatility compared to shorter carriers. This is particularly useful for custom-built trailers or those with modified axles.
• Zinc-Plated TUFFPLATE Finish: Offers enhanced corrosion resistance, protecting the carrier from rust and degradation, especially in harsh environments. A durable finish is crucial for long-term reliability and preventing premature failure.
• Without Lock: This is a basic, no-frills carrier that does not include a locking mechanism, requiring users to consider separate security measures. The absence of a lock contributes to its affordability, but also necessitates additional precautions to deter theft.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the carrier’s ability to securely hold the spare tire and withstand the elements. The universal fit eliminates compatibility concerns, while the extended length expands mounting options. The TUFFPLATE finish ensures longevity, even in corrosive environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock performs its primary function – securing the spare tire – reliably and effectively. Once properly installed and tightened, it holds the tire firmly in place, minimizing vibration and movement.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and adaptability. The design is straightforward, making installation easy even for those with limited mechanical experience. The extended length and universal fit mean it can accommodate a wide range of tire sizes and trailer configurations. The biggest weakness is the absence of a locking mechanism, which makes the spare tire vulnerable to theft.

It definitely meets expectations for a basic, affordable spare tire carrier. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done reliably.

Design & Ergonomics

The Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock is all about functionality over aesthetics. The build quality is solid, with a decent gauge of steel used in its construction. It feels robust and capable of withstanding the stresses of trailer use.

It is remarkably user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve; anyone familiar with basic hand tools can install it in minutes.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its simple design and TUFFPLATE finish, the Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock should last for years with minimal maintenance. Occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime is recommended, and it might be worthwhile to apply a rust inhibitor to the threads of the lug nuts for added protection.

Repairing it is unlikely to be necessary, as there are few parts that can fail. However, replacing the lug nuts or washers might be required over time due to wear and tear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock doesn’t come with any accessories. The most obvious and necessary “accessory” is a set of lug nuts compatible with your specific spare tire.

Customization is limited, but adding a locking lug nut or a cable lock is a smart way to enhance security. There are also various spare tire covers available that can protect the tire from the elements and improve its appearance.

Pros and Cons of Dutton-Lainson 22128 Dutton Lainson Spare Tire Carrier Without Lock