Original Version of Thule Spare Me Spare Tire Mounted Bike Rack Isn't Fitting on 2007 Toyota RAV4

Question:

I am not sure if a missing something basic but I do not understand how the mounting plate #753-3532 - image attached fits onto/over the half mooninch part that is on the RAV4 2007 tire receiving bracket hard to explain - see photos. Is there a different plate or some other type of adapter?? I am not 100 certain but from reading your other postings I believe I have the Thul Spare Me Tire rack TH963PRO but there are no number except for what I guess is a decal p/n. See attached images. Any help you can offer would be much, much appreciated! Best regards, Jon Maxwell

asked by: Jon M

Expert Reply:

The mounting bracket you show in the photo indicates that you have the original version of the Thule Spare Me, part # TH963, which won't fit on your RAV4 because of the protruding flange on your spare tire mounting plate. The later versions of the Spare Me, TH963XT, TH963XTR and the current version, # TH963PRO provide a redesigned mounting plate that allow the rack to fit..

Thule redesigned that # 753-3532 mounting plate so it will fit your RAV4, so if you get the new mounting plate, it will allow you to use your rack on your 2007 RAV4.

expert reply by: Mike L