After taking advice from forum members I have ordered a set of Malatesta tyres. Will I still be able to store the spare under the bonnet? If not is it possible to mount it directly to the rear tailgate? The problem I have is I work with wood for a living and have a workshop full of woodworking tools and machinery, but no metalworking tools. So I thought if I turn a hardwood boss on the lathe and mount it on the outside of the tailgate, then fit the gap between inner and outer skins with a hardwood block, then bolt the whole lot together, I may be able to mount the spare wheel there. I know I would then have problems with the weight but could I replace the strut with a stronger one and add a second to the other side?
Is this just a silly idea or is it a stroke of genius?

It'll be interesting to see the finished job!!

Fagan said:

Is this just a silly idea or is it a stroke of genius?

Click to expand...

What you need to ask yourself is how many cars with tailgate mounted spares are up and over openers

However, if you re-hinge the tailgate to open sideways - now there's another idea.

A few years ago I had a Ford Capri on which the tailgate struts had failed, lifting it without the aid of the struts was like bench pressing at the gym. I'm pretty sure the tailgate on the Panda + the weight of the spare wheel would still be lighter than the Capri hatch. So with the correct struts I think it may be possible to rear mount the spare without any adverse effects to the tailgate operation. Also, surley there would be less stress on the hinges at the top than there would be to a side hung door carrying the extra weight.

Could be possible then.

Pandik has done this on his Panda, a slightly different approach and not easy for a woodworker to replicate, but it may give you ideas.

Check out the pics in his thread...........https://www.fiatforum.com/panda-classic/270926-my-panda-4x4-off-road.html

And check out one of his movies on youtube


Sutjeska