What wood for spare tire cover piece?

Daryl · Dec 16, 2021

I’m back on other spare tire thing”. I know, I know… but once I get started on a project, I gotta see it through (Mr. OCD!)

I’m not much of a carpenter, but I’m pretty sure I can get a sheet of wood, use the cardboard cover to trace it out, then cut it out, sand it, seal it, etc.
The $55 price online just kinda chaps my ass!

So, what kind of wood should I use? Obviously something strong enough to not sag like the OE cardboard POS, but thin enough not to create a hump when the carpet is laid over it. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!

ttocs · Dec 16, 2021

you could probably use a piece of 1/4" hardboard from home depot. Or if you want to use something that might last a little longer they also sell 1/4" sheets of pvc which would not have problems with water.

joemomma · Dec 17, 2021

If it's going to be covered with the carpet overlay, I'd probably use plexiglass or some kind of ABS plastic. It will be stronger and lighter than 1/4" plywood. 1/4" plywood has about as much give as the factory cardboard. You might could step up to 3/8" plywood, but that would be pretty heavy for a piece that size.

ttocs · Dec 17, 2021

the wood will not start to have a problem till its wet unless you are putting that many groceries on it.

OpalFrostGT · Dec 18, 2021

I saw a very nice cover that was made from 1/4" plywood and it was bonded to a thin fiberglass top. The owner painted the wood and fiberglass the same color. Once it was installed it never sagged and looked very professional. This project would certainly require some time, but I thought it looked great.

TrickVert · Dec 18, 2021

1/4" Masonite is all you need. If you're concerned about weight on top of it, you can add a block of Styrofoam between the cover and the spare to support the middle.

Makoto · Dec 18, 2021

literally anything that fits.

Daryl · Dec 31, 2021

Took advantage of the rain finally stopping (not that we’re not grateful for all we can get here in drought-ridden Cali) and banged out a spare tire cover replacement. Couldn’t salvage the sticker, but oh well!
I used 1/2” MDF. Works fine but sets in there just a tad high. 1/4” probably been more flush, but very little slop off the edges so I’m fine with the end result.