Let’s Dive into Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid
The Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid promises a simple and robust solution for carrying a spare tire on travel trailers and fifth wheels. Stromberg Carlson aims to provide a heavy-duty, no-frills tire carrier that mounts directly to a 4-inch square bumper. At a price point of $47.99, it’s an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly way to relocate their spare. This rigid carrier piqued my interest because I needed a reliable, space-saving solution for my off-road trailer project.
My project involved converting a standard utility trailer into a rugged, overland-capable rig, and tire mounting was a crucial consideration. I was looking for a carrier that wouldn’t break the bank but could withstand some serious abuse. I opened the box to find a collection of steel components and hardware, seemingly ready for assembly. The initial impression was one of straightforward design, which gave me some confidence that it would indeed be easy to install.
I considered a few alternatives, including weld-on tire carriers and more complex swing-away designs. The weld-on options required fabrication skills I currently lack, and the swing-away carriers were overkill for my needs and considerably more expensive. I opted for the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid due to its claimed ease of installation, compatibility with my trailer’s existing bumper, and affordable price. My first thought was that it seemed a bit too simple. It would either be an absolute steal or a major letdown.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid on my newly built off-road trailer during a weekend camping trip to the nearby mountains. Installation took approximately an hour with basic hand tools, fitting onto the 4-inch square bumper without any major complications. I hauled a 33-inch all-terrain spare tire with it over mostly paved and improved dirt roads.
The conditions were dry and mild, so the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid wasn’t subjected to extreme weather during this first outing. The carrier performed adequately, holding the tire securely in place. However, I noticed some slight rattling on particularly bumpy sections of the trail, which I’ll address later.
The ease of use was definitely a highlight. After installation, mounting and unmounting the spare tire was quick and easy. My initial surprise was its fairly secure performance despite the minimalist design, but those rattles definitely started to raise concerns about the longevity of the setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a few longer trips with more challenging terrain, the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid’s limitations became more apparent. While it held the tire without catastrophic failure, the rattling issue worsened, indicating potential wear at the mounting points. The durability, unfortunately, proved to be a significant concern.
The powder coat finish started to chip and rust in areas exposed to road grime and minor impacts. I found myself needing to tighten the mounting hardware frequently to mitigate the rattling. Regular cleaning with soap and water was relatively easy. However, I had to apply rust inhibitor to the exposed metal to prevent further corrosion.
Compared to previous experiences with more robust tire carriers, the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid definitely underperformed. While it served its basic function, the lack of long-term durability and the constant need for maintenance made it a less-than-ideal solution for serious off-road use. My previous carrier, a custom-fabricated swing-arm, was significantly more robust and required minimal maintenance, albeit at a substantially higher cost.
Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid
Specifications
- Fits on 4 in. square bumpers: Designed specifically for standard 4-inch square trailer bumpers, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of travel trailers and fifth wheels. This simplifies installation for users with common bumper configurations.
- Rigid column design: Features a non-articulating column that provides direct support for the spare tire. This design aims for simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
- Design for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Spares: Engineered to accommodate the weight and dimensions of typical spare tires found on travel trailers and fifth wheels. The design considerations include appropriate load-bearing capacity.
- Heavy Duty Simple Construction: Employs robust steel construction with minimal moving parts. This contributes to the overall strength and reliability, in theory.
- Includes all parts and hardware to attach your tire to the carrier and the carrier to your 4 in. square bumper: Provides a comprehensive set of components necessary for complete installation. This eliminates the need for additional purchases.
Performance & Functionality
The Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid performs its primary function of holding a spare tire reasonably well, under moderate conditions. Its performance is adequate for paved roads and well-maintained gravel roads. The major weakness is its susceptibility to rattling and vibration-induced wear, especially when subjected to rough terrain.
This product barely meets my expectations. It offers a basic solution at a low price point, but the lack of durability and the constant need for maintenance are significant drawbacks. A few simple upgrades, like thicker steel and vibration-dampening washers, could drastically improve its long-term performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price, using relatively thick steel. The steel appears to be low grade which is why rust is a big issue. The design prioritizes simplicity over refinement. The weight is manageable, making it easy to handle during installation.
The Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid is reasonably user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process and easy tire mounting/unmounting. There is no real learning curve involved. However, the lack of any vibration-dampening features makes the rattling noise annoying.
Durability & Maintenance
I estimate that the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid will last approximately 1-3 years with regular use, depending on the conditions. Heavy off-road use will likely shorten its lifespan considerably. The need for frequent tightening and rust prevention adds to the maintenance burden.
Repairing damaged sections would require welding skills, which most users may not possess. Replacing individual components may be difficult, as the carrier is sold as a complete unit.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid comes with all necessary mounting hardware, but offers no additional accessories or customization options. The rigid design limits the possibility of adding features like swing-away mechanisms or integrated lighting. Users could potentially modify the carrier with aftermarket paint or rust inhibitors. However, extensive modifications may compromise its structural integrity. The absence of aftermarket support is a significant limitation.
Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Simple installation process requires minimal tools and experience.
- Compatible with standard 4-inch square trailer bumpers.
- Lightweight design is easy to handle and install.
- Effectively holds a spare tire under moderate conditions.
Cons
- Prone to rattling and vibration, especially on rough roads.
- Limited durability, with potential for rust and wear.
- No customization options or aftermarket support.
Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid?
The Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid is perfect for casual campers and RVers who primarily travel on paved roads and require a budget-friendly spare tire mounting solution. It’s also suitable for individuals who are comfortable with basic maintenance and don’t mind addressing minor issues like rattling. Individuals with lightweight trailers or smaller tires may experience better results than I did.
Those who should skip this product include serious off-roaders, overlanders, and anyone seeking a durable, long-lasting tire carrier for demanding conditions. Also, those unwilling to perform regular maintenance or who prioritize quiet operation should look elsewhere.
A must-have modification would be vibration-dampening washers at all mounting points. Applying a high-quality rust inhibitor before installation is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid
The Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid is a budget-friendly solution for carrying a spare tire on travel trailers and fifth wheels. It offers simple installation and adequate performance under moderate conditions. However, its limited durability, susceptibility to rattling, and lack of customization options are significant drawbacks.
The price is justified for those seeking a temporary or low-cost solution, but buyers should be aware of its limitations. I would personally recommend it with reservations. Only if you understand its shortcomings and are willing to address them proactively.
If you’re on a tight budget and primarily travel on paved roads, the Stromberg Carlson TR-1 Tire Carrier Rigid may be worth considering. But for serious adventurers, investing in a more robust and durable tire carrier is definitely the smarter move. Don’t compromise your safety and peace of mind; explore other options if you plan to venture off the beaten path.