I just took delivery of a 2004 F150. I'd like to find a way to protect the spare tire mounted under the truck from dirt, water, and debris. Is there a spare tire, watertight case that will keep the spare looking good? I can't imagine using a spare that has been exposed to sand, dirt, salt, and crud for four years.

Thanks
Chris

 

I have a 01 and about every nine months when i rotate the tires Ill take my spare down, clean it, spray the tire with a protectant check the air pressure and apply a wax spray to the rim, I wouldnt worry bout it getting very cruddy, I have a question for you, On the new 04 is there any lock for the spare?? every truck ive owned had to put a lock of some sort around the tire and chassis, had a spare stolen before only to find out (after a tire got flat whille driving) that it was stolen

 

I think so. I'm still coming to terms with all of the options and features on the truck. There is a lock of some sort on the bumper which might be the tire lock.

Thanks for the info.

Chris

 

You could also get one of those elastic type tire covers you see on the back of travel trailers spare tires to protect your tire.

 

So the 2004 spare wheel matches what is on the truck?
That wasn't the case in the past. The spare was mounted on a plain steel wheel, not suitable (looks wise) to put into the rotation.

The old bodystyle also had a 'X' beam between the spare and the underside of the bed. Rubbing caused the spare to become damaged leaving four indentated marks on the sidewall. Many members put plywood, carpet, etc... between the bed and the spare to protect it. Hopefully this isn't an issue with the '04.

I've used my spare a couple of times over the last five years. I guess it has about a hundred miles on it. That isn't so long to drive around with a bag over your head.

 

The spare tire wheel on my 04 does not match the wheels on the truck other than size. I can not use the spare in the rotate schedule. Also the lock in the bumper is there so no one can insert the handle to crank down the tire.