Side mount spare carrier support

The c-channel is behind the rear side panel but the wood filler is long gone. The holes seem to be serviceable with some washers. Measuring the opening, it seems that a 1x2 would fit, about 8 inches long. Has anybody used something other than treated wood for this? I was thinking something less moisture attracting. Also, what size & grade bolts have been used? What about the 2 bolts that seem to go just thru the side panel? To mark the holes, I was going to use a bolt from the backside to punch a mark. Also, it doesn't appear to be any "bondo" on the side panel where original holes should be. Wonder if they replaced the sheet metal? Any photos would be appreciated. TIA

 

You could probably use a chunk of plastic bar to replace the wood. Have to get it at a plastics supply house I'd imagine. My holes are all bondo'd up, but I plan to reinforce the backside with sheet steel somehow. Ain't got that far yet though.

 

heres some old before pictures of what I encountered after taking off a spare tire support on the side..
I used grade 5 bolts after a long hard resto on this one..anyhow there is the wood still attached from inside and the measurements...

 

I'm not into restoring or side mounting my spare but my 2 cents is don't use any wood after you fix the rust cause any wood absorbes moisture and a source of moisture against metal as asking for mor rust.

I'd use metal or plastic and afterwards heavily undercoat or paint to seal out any moisture.

 

get a scrap of "Trex" decking or something similer. It comes in 2x4 etc.

 

Good idear! Never dealt with that stuff, so I forgot about it. That should work in all the hat channels.

 

Actually absorption may be the reason Jeep used wood. A dry block of wood will absorb rather than condense water in a humid environment and w/ thrown water (roadspray) the wood will remove the water trapped between the block and metal. Only if the wood is fully saturated will the water actually be in contact w/ the metal.
I just removed the channel and wood from mine about a week ago and found an unpainted surface w/ less surface rust than in the other bare metal areas I found on the underside of the tub. Just a thought.:v6:

 

Couldn't say if there was a wooden backer on my '60.
The spare tire carrier and a goodly sized chunk of side sheet metal was forcible removed by a PO either with rocks or a tree. The spare carrier is now welded to the tailgate and warrior corner protectors have been installed on the rear.:hurrican: