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Install | Expedition Tire Carrier

Installation of Expedition Tire Carrier on a Sprinter Van

1. Verify Hinges

  1. Check the Hinges: Ensure your Sprinter Van has 180-degree hinges. These are identifiable by two holes (top and bottom) and allow the door to open 180 degrees. If you have 270-degree hinges (which allow the door to open further), you'll need to replace them with 180-degree hinges, which can be purchased from our website.

2. Gather and Inspect Parts

  1. Carrier Parts:

    • Main carrier unit
    • Bottom hoop (with one side having a tab for mounting additional accessories)
    • Two labeled boxes (T1 and T2) with necessary components
    • Inner hinge brackets
    • Step bit for widening the hole
    • Door plate and template

3. Prepare the Van

  1. Remove Inner Trim: If your Sprinter Van has inner trim, use the trim removal tool to carefully take it off. For cargo vans, the trim is usually not covered and can be removed easily.
  2. Drill Preparation: If your van has a cutout in the door panel, you do not need to drill through. Otherwise, proceed with drilling.

4. Drill the Hole

  1. Mark the Drill Spot:

    • Use the provided template to mark the drill location on the door. Align the template with the top ridge and mark the center.

  2. Drill the Hole:

    • Drill through the door using the drill bit. For those without a cutout, ensure you drill all the way through to access the nut on the backside.

  3. Widen the Hole:

    • Use the step bit to widen the hole to accommodate the necessary components. Ensure the hole is just large enough for a proper fit without excess space.

  4. Clean Up Metal Shavings:

    • Remove any metal shavings from inside the van using a vacuum, shop vac, or compressed air to prevent rust.

5. Paint the Hole

  1. Apply Paint:
    • Use spray paint to cover the exposed metal. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding.

6. Install the Door Plate

  1. Attach the 3M Tape:
    • Clean the area where the tape will go with rubbing alcohol. Peel off the backing of the 3M tape and attach the door plate to the door, ensuring it is evenly placed and pressed firmly.

7. Assemble and Install the Tire Carrier

  1. Prepare the Carrier:

    • Attach the bottom hoop to the main carrier using the bolts provided. Tighten them evenly by hand to ensure a secure fit.

  2. Mount the Carrier:

    • Position the carrier on the hinges and secure it. Use a ratchet and appropriate sockets to tighten all bolts.

  3. Final Adjustments:

    • Ensure everything is tightened properly. Check that the carrier is aligned correctly and operates smoothly.

8. Final Checks

  1. Verify Installation:
    • Ensure that the carrier is securely attached and functioning as expected. Check all bolts and connections to ensure they are tight and properly secured.

Congrats on installing your new gear from Owl!

Remember, Owl is the #1 manufacturer of Off Road gear and accessories for Adventure vans. We have our van experts standing by at our HQ in Arizona if you have any questions. Our gear for Mercedes Sprinter vans, Ford Transit and Winnebago Revel is Made in the USA, and many products are in stock and ship fast.

More soon,
John Willenborg