Sounds like an excellent idea.  Let me know how it comes along if you
proceed.  In retrospect, I cannot even imagine the damage that would
have occurred, had the front lip of the tire tray caught a pothole
before I pulled over.

-----Original Message-----
From: Andrew Jack [mailto:andrewxp@aj.dnsalias.net]
Sent: May 24, 2002 01:09
To: Russell, William; vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Spare Tire Carrier Bolt Size - 87 syncro??

Hmmm....

I think I will install a pin switch (similar to door light switch) wired
to
a warning light/buzzer to avoid this happenning to me - now that you
mention
it I don't really trust that dinky little plastic catch.  If I get
really
industrious, I might even fabricate a bracket (if there is room) with
the
pin protruding into the bolt hole....

Andrew
'92 T3 Syncro

----- Original Message -----
From: "Russell, William" <william.russell@UW-INC.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, May 24, 2002 10:20 AM
Subject: Re: Spare Tire Carrier Bolt Size - 87 syncro??

> Oh mine is there but the pothole-induced vibration proved too much for
> that little latch.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Brent Christensen [mailto:sbsyncro@hotmail.com]
> Sent: May 23, 2002 19:08
> To: Russell, William; vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: Re: Spare Tire Carrier Bolt Size - 87 syncro??
>
> > PS:  Mine worked loose on the trans-Canada and dropped the spare
tire
> > pan onto the tarmac at 100km/hr.  Worst sound I've ever heard.  I
> > thought the engine had dropped from its mount.  :(
> >
>
> This is why there is a safety catch on the carrier (at least on my
'89).
> If
> yours is missing, you may want to look into a replacement!
>
> Brent Christensen
>