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Install | NCV3 Ladder + Tire Carrier

Step-by-Step Instructions for Installing the Ladder Tire Carrier on Your Sprinter Van

Step 1: Remove the Interior Trim Panel

  • Begin by opening the rear door of your Sprinter Van.
  • Use a trim panel removal tool (preferably plastic to avoid damage) to gently pry off the interior trim panel.
  • Once loosened, pull the panel off carefully. If a snap breaks, don't worry — a replacement snap is included in the package, or you can buy one from an automotive store.
  • Set the trim panel aside for now.

Step 2: Remove the Magnetic Mount

  • Locate the magnetic mount inside the door. This needs to be removed as you will be using the hole it covers for mounting the tire carrier.
  • Use a 13mm wrench to remove the mount.

Step 3: Install the Mounting Plate

  • With the magnetic mount removed, align the provided metal mounting plate to the door. This plate will hold the ladder tire carrier in place.
  • The plate has three holes because it is ambidextrous (usable on either side of the Sprinter Van), but you only need the bottom two holes.
  • Insert the provided sheet metal screws to secure the plate temporarily, and then drill out the holes slightly wider using a step drill bit.

Step 4: Secure the Plate with Bolts

  • Place one bolt through the aligned hole to ensure everything is lined up.
  • Use your hand to position the plate behind the door’s sheet metal. Insert the screws through the plate and secure them by tightening the nuts on the back.
  • Tighten both screws evenly, ensuring they are snug but not overly tight.

Step 5: Install the Sway Link

  • Once the plate is installed, thread the sway link through the designated hole in the door.
  • Tighten the sway link using a nylock nut. Make sure it is very tight, as this component needs to remain secure and not move when the door is opened or closed.

Step 6: Attach the Hinges

  • Install the hinges, which resemble the letter "C." These hinges will support the ladder and tire rack.
  • There are four bolts in total; three are the same size, while one is narrower for the bottom hole.
  • Tighten the bolts enough to hold the hinges securely in place but not too tight, as you will make final adjustments later.

Step 7: Mount the Ladder and Tire Carrier

  • Before attaching the ladder and tire carrier to the hinges, make sure the carrier is properly fitted.
  • Insert plastic washers on either side of the bolt, followed by metal washers, to ensure smooth movement.
  • Install the carrier onto the hinges and tighten the bolts securely to ensure everything stays in place.

Step 8: Install the Bottom Hoop for the Tire

  • The bottom hoop is designed to hold the tire securely. It is made of steel and provides extra security for the tire.
  • Align the bottom hoop with the threaded holes on the carrier and insert the provided stainless steel bolts.
  • Tighten these bolts snugly, ensuring the hoop is tight against the carrier to prevent any wobbling of the tire.

Step 9: Adjust the Sway Link and Hinges

  • Ensure the sway link is flat by loosening and adjusting the bolts as needed.
  • Lift the ladder tire carrier slightly to ensure it is positioned correctly. Once aligned, tighten all the bolts securely.
  • Make sure the ladder is positioned at the correct height and everything is tightened down evenly.

Step 10: Install the Foot Pegs

  • Screw the foot pegs onto the rack by securing them to the threaded studs on the carrier.
  • Tighten them to ensure they are securely attached.

Step 11: Mount the Tire

  • Thread the all-thread spindle through the back of the tire rack.
  • Place a washer between the spindle and the rack, followed by a lock washer and a nut.
  • Adjust the spindle height so that it aligns with the center of the wheel, and then secure it tightly.

Step 12: Tighten the Tire Handle

  • Position the tire against the ladder tire carrier, ensuring it is snug against the bottom hoop.
  • Insert the cone-shaped handle into the center hub of the wheel, and tighten it until the tire is firmly held in place. Do not overtighten to the point where it is difficult to remove in case of a flat tire.

Step 13: Secure the Tire

  • For added security, you can place a padlock through the small hole in the all-thread to prevent theft.

Final Step: Adjustments and Tightening

  • Go through each connection, tightening any remaining bolts and ensuring that everything is secure and snug.
  • Make sure the ladder, sway link, and tire are all properly aligned and stable.

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