So, this summer I installed a Explorer rear axle with a Aussie locker. Now, with that type of locker, there is no way I can run a smaller spare tire. I decided to get a pre-runner type carrier for inside my bed and a full sized spare. Looking around the internet, I saw that there werent very many options. You have the Fabtech which is a great company but their carrier is not removable and it seems kinda cheep. The next level up is a Ratcage. Sort of expensive but well made and available in many options. If you had unlimited cash, there is the tiregate. This is a very cool product but for around $800-$1000+, it was way out of my price range.

I decided on the Jeeper series Ratcage because it's made for a smaller truck which is perfect for our Rangers. After looking at the different on-line stores that carry the Ratcage, I saw a huge difference in prices so I decided to order directly from the Company. It was later in the day when I called so I thought they may be closed but I was able to get somebody. I didn't get his name but he was very knowledgeable about the product and I think he may have even been the owner. We talked a while about the carrier and the different options that were out there. He was a great guy, was very honest, and easy to talk to. I even told him about this site which he already knew about and even expressed interest in giving a discount to a group buy. He also gives discounts to "service" workers like firefighters, police, military, etc.

So I ordered my carrier which was in stock and shipped from NY. I received it in good shape and packaged well. When putting it together I ran into two problems. First, the hardware was missing. Normally this would have been a big deal but I like to use grade 8 bolts whenever I can so I didn't even bother contacting the company. Second, it is nearly impossible to get all four legs even. I was able to get them close and I would use washers to make it perfect during the install. Once together the carrier seems very strong. I was told by the person I talked to at the company that some people have even used this carrier off-road to drive on to make for a better approach angle. I don't think I will ever be doing that but, he also said that he never received a returned Ratcage because of damage. The carrier is removable by taking out four pins and the whole assembly comes out.

Installation was very easy. You need to drill two 7/16 in. holes for each foot. Then bolt down the brackets and put the carrier in. You will need to buy your own hardware for this considering each truck is different. There is nothing in the way of drilling the holes in a Ranger because the Gas tank is dropped down away from the floor of the bed by at least 6 in. Everything went smooth and I think it looks great.

If you are interested, here is their site: http://www.rat-cage.com/

Because of the weather, I was able to get great pics but, here you go for now.

 

looks good, too easily stolen for me... If it had a lock or something that would be better...

 

You can lock it. There is a hole at the bottom of the bolt (for a lack of a better term) that holds the tire on where you can lock the tire to the carrier. Then, you can replace one of the pins with a lock to keep the carrier on the truck.

 

ahh, got ya... Looks good though... i have one of those tires as a full size spare...

 

so when you take it out, what do the brackets look like? do they stick up a lot?

 

They look like _l__l_ LoL. They stick up about 2in.

 

That thing is sweet

 

Yea that thing is pretty sweet i wouldn't mind buyin one my self how much did it run you?

 

Looks good Jeff.

And here you told me you were done modding... Right!

You done anything to the seats yet?

 

Because it's winter and I cant find a good explorer console around here, I just installed the seat as is. I'll wait till spring to hit up some junk yards.

 

pics no el worky.

 

^Yeah red x is all i get too.

 

i see it..looks pretty cool but its just a 45 degree mount right?

pics of the whole truck?

 

I thought about getting one for mine so i could have a full size spare. With my toolbox...no more room in the bed.

 

ok, all the pics are back up.

 

beeefy. I like it.

 

Were your's that bad? lol

 

No, lol. I just couldnt wait to see how the new seats look.

 

thats just asking for someone to steal it or break it off. if they really want it they can get to it.

 

Well, if somebody really really wants my truck, they could steal that also. If we always worry about our mods getting stolen, then all of us would have bone stock trucks. With a locked rear diff I need a full sized spare tire and I'm not going to have a maggot thief dictate my safety or looks of my truck. If they really want to cut two locks to get a spare tire on a stock Ranger rim then whatever. It would be much easier to take one of the 4 thats already on the truck. I dont think I'm asking for anything.

 

i really like that... much better than what i have now which is a loose tire in the bed

 

that thing is sick i want to get one but i haul my dirtbikes alot and it might get in the way could you post pics with it removed if thats not to much trouble

 

Not bad, but I think I am going to have to fab something up.