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There is a very easy solution to getting enough clearance to remove the spare wheel from Al-Ko underslung carriers.
Simply tow the stricken wheel up on some decent lift wooden blocks, or your leveling ramp to gain extra room.
To more safely jack the caravan you want the car attached anyway, so the van can't roll off the jack.
If the puncture is on the opposite side to the one needed for the carrier removal, then one option if you don't have blocks to raise both sides is to tow it up that side initially get off the spare. Road camber and a kerb can make using blocks necessary even without a puncture on that side.
With the wheel up on blocks not only is there enough room to get a jack in place and get the carrier off, but there is less jacking needed. It is best to crack the bolts slightly before jacking whilst the wheel is locked by the load being carried.
This technique is applicable to any caravan. I am staggered when I see even roadside recovery/service people struggling to remove wheels etc without creating enough room; I just think they ought to know how to cope with caravan punctures. Very recently I had a puncture and presently being band from lifting jobs, whilst waiting for the service person I pulled the wheel up as described; he thought that was a brilliant idea as he said he hated caravans because of this very issue.
My cars substantial scissor jack neatly fits when I have the wheel on my blocks, about 4" thick. You know you must not jack onto the main chassis rails but onto the heavy duty axle flange onto which these rails are bolted. Access for the jack in my case is best from in front of the wheel so I pull the van right to the front end of the block so the access is uninhibited.
Edit: If you have purchased a second hand van with one of these carriers then don't wait for a puncture before trying out using the carrier; they can rust up on the telescopically sliding tubes. Remove things and clean and lightly oil [engine oil is fine] these tube's sliding faces.
Post last edited on 11/12/2015 07:29:01
Post last edited on 11/12/2015 08:51:11
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Topic: Gobur Carousel 10/2 Spare Wheel
