CE Smith side mount spare tire carrier for trailer — 15" 4/5-lug galvanized, heavy-duty clamp-on, no-drill install

CE Smith’s 27310G side-mount spare tire carrier is a galvanized, heavy-duty bracket that holds one 4- or 5-lug wheel up to 15" securely to the side of your trailer without drilling.

Designed for boat and utility trailers, this carrier shifts a mounted spare away from the frame to increase ground clearance while keeping the tire accessible. Built from 3/16" galvanized steel and supplied with zinc-plated U-bolts, the carrier clamps to frame rails up to 4" high and 1"–3.5" wide. Its offset layout and crisscross U-bolt pattern give installers options for fit and strength without welding or permanent modification.

How does this carrier improve trailer ground clearance?

The carrier’s offset geometry moves the spare both vertically and laterally so the tire sits higher and farther from suspension and road obstacles. That extra space reduces the chance of the wheel contacting obstacles or dragging on steep driveways. It’s particularly useful on trailers with low frames or when towing over uneven terrain.

• Vertical offset: 5 inches to lift the tire above frame level
• Side offset: 4.5 inches to move the wheel outward from the rail
• Helps avoid ground contact on inclines and rough roads

Will this fit my trailer frame and wheel bolt pattern?

The carrier clamps around rectangular frame rails and accepts a wide range of common wheel sizes, but it’s not universal for every bolt pattern. It is designed for frames up to 4" tall and between 1" and 3.5" wide. It supports 4- or 5-lug wheels up to 15" diameter but is not compatible with 5-on-5" or 5-on-5.5" bolt patterns.

• Fits frame dimensions: up to 4" H x 1"–3.5" W
• Wheel compatibility: 4- or 5-lug wheels, maximum 15" diameter
• Not suitable for 5-on-5" or 5-on-5.5" bolt patterns

How simple is installation and what hardware is included?

Installation is designed to be quick and non-invasive—no drilling or welding required. The carrier ships with zinc-plated U-bolts and hardware that clamp the frame securely; you can orient the U-bolts crossed for tighter hold on short rails or parallel to gain reach. Basic hand tools are all that’s needed for mounting.

• Includes zinc-plated U-bolts and mounting hardware
• No drilling needed—clamps to existing frame rails
• U-bolts can be crossed or run parallel for fit adjustments

What materials and construction ensure long-term durability?

CE Smith built this tire carrier from thick, galvanized steel and used welded construction where strength matters. The 3/16" material and corrosion-resistant zinc and galvanization finish protect the bracket in marine and roadside environments. These choices reduce rust and extend service life under regular towing conditions.

• Galvanized 3/16" steel body for corrosion resistance
• Zinc-plated hardware to resist rusting
• Welded construction for high clamping and holding strength

Who this is for: The CE Smith 27310G is ideal for boat owners, anglers, and utility trailer users who want a sturdy, no-drill spare mount that increases ground clearance and resists corrosion. Choose this carrier if you need a reliable side-mounted spare bracket for frames up to 4" tall and want a heavy-gauge, galvanized solution without permanent alterations to your trailer.