Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding Review

Let’s Dive into Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding

The Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding promises a simple and robust solution for hauling your spare tire on trailers with 4-inch square bumpers. Stromberg Carlson aims to provide a space-saving, folding design at a budget-friendly price, making it an attractive option for RVers and trailer owners looking to free up valuable cargo space. I was looking for a solution to haul my spare tire outside of my travel trailer to gain more space inside, this product seemed to fit the bill.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was that of utilitarian simplicity. The carrier’s components felt sturdy enough, though the finish was basic and industrial. It certainly seemed more robust than some of the flimsy, universal-fit options I’d seen online and in stores, but the barebones design lacked any real aesthetic appeal.

I had considered the Curt Manufacturing Spare Tire Carrier and the BAL Hide-A-Spare tire carrier before settling on the Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding. The Curt option appeared over-engineered for my needs and considerably more expensive. The BAL Hide-A-Spare was intriguing, but required more extensive modification of my trailer frame, something I wasn’t keen on doing. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; hopefully, the TR-2’s straightforward design translates into reliable performance on the road.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding on a weekend camping trip, covering a mix of paved highways and gravel forest roads. The installation process was relatively straightforward, requiring only basic hand tools and about an hour of my time. The instructions were clear enough, though a few more detailed diagrams would have been helpful.

The carrier performed admirably on paved roads, exhibiting minimal wobble or sway. On the gravel roads, however, the tire bounced around more than I would have liked, even after tightening all the bolts. This resulted in some concerning rattling noises that required frequent checks to ensure nothing was coming loose. Despite my initial concerns, the TR-2 held firm, but the experience wasn’t exactly confidence-inspiring.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and thousands of miles, the Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding has held up surprisingly well. There are signs of wear and tear, mainly surface rust on some of the unfinished metal components, especially after exposure to rain and road salt. I’ve since applied a coat of rust-resistant paint to mitigate this issue.

Maintenance involves little more than periodically tightening the bolts and lubricating the folding mechanism. The folding feature itself has become slightly stiff over time, requiring a bit more effort to operate. Overall, the TR-2 has proven more durable than its initial appearance suggested. Compared to my previous experience of hauling the spare tire inside the trailer, the TR-2 is a huge improvement in terms of space and convenience, though the rattling on rough roads remains a persistent annoyance.

Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding

Specifications

• Fits on 4 in. square bumpers: This is the defining feature. It ensures compatibility with a wide range of trailers.
• Folding column to access rear compartments: The folding design allows for easy access to storage compartments or the trailer’s rear. This is a crucial feature for maintaining functionality.
• Designed for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Spares: Specifically engineered for these types of spares ensures appropriate weight capacity and mounting configuration. This provides peace of mind during travel.
• Heavy Duty Simple Construction: This suggests durability and reliability through a straightforward design. The lack of complex parts minimizes potential failure points.
• Includes all parts and hardware to attach your tire to the carrier and the carrier to your 4″ square bumper: This ensures a complete package and ease of installation. Having all necessary hardware eliminates the need for additional trips to the hardware store.

Performance & Functionality

The Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding performs its primary function adequately: it holds a spare tire securely. The folding mechanism works as intended, allowing easy access to the rear of the trailer. However, the rattling on rough roads and the lack of dampening are significant drawbacks.

The carrier’s strengths lie in its simplicity and compatibility. Its weakness is the vibration and noise generated on uneven terrain. It meets the basic expectation of carrying a spare tire but falls short in terms of refinement and noise reduction.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The materials are heavy gauge steel but the finish is minimal. It is relatively user-friendly, with a simple installation process and a straightforward folding mechanism.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and rust prevention, the Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding should last for several years. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional tightening of bolts and lubrication. The simple design also makes repairs relatively easy if necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. Customization options are limited, but you could add padding or rubber isolators to reduce vibration and noise. The carrier is compatible with standard spare tires. However, aftermarket locking mechanisms might be a wise investment to prevent theft.

Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding?

The Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding is perfect for budget-conscious RVers and trailer owners who need a simple, functional spare tire carrier and primarily travel on paved roads. It’s also suitable for those who are comfortable with basic DIY installation and maintenance.

This product should be skipped by those who frequently travel on rough roads or prioritize quiet operation. Anyone seeking a more refined or aesthetically pleasing spare tire carrier should also look elsewhere.

Must-have accessories or modifications include rust-resistant paint, rubber isolators or padding to reduce vibration, and a locking mechanism to prevent theft.

Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding

The Stromberg Carlson TR-2 Tire Carrier Folding offers a no-frills, budget-friendly solution for hauling your spare tire. While it gets the job done, its shortcomings, particularly the rattling and basic finish, are undeniable.

The price is certainly justified for what you get: a functional, if somewhat unrefined, spare tire carrier. For the price, it provides an efficient solution for carrying a spare tire, and its folding function is useful.

I would cautiously recommend it to those on a tight budget and who primarily travel on smooth roads, provided they’re willing to address the rattling issue. If you’re looking for a basic spare tire solution, the Stromberg Carlson TR-2 is worth considering. But remember, sometimes you get what you pay for.