Underslung spare wheel modification - Can it be done?

[ro80rob]

Hello
Despite the fact I haven't even picked up my Surf yet, I want to do a little homework.
It seems that most members want to put the spare on a swing out frame on the tailgate.
I want to do the reverse and fit it underneath.
For what I bought the surf for (towing), underneath would be preferable.
The Matlock spares guys offer a kit for about £40 to do the underneath job, but what about the tailgate. I'd need to remove the tailgate retainer and the hinged portion, but can the tailgate be made to look OK again (not bothered about a bit of bodywork) since the whole thing (number plate etc) is eccentric, or do I need a new tailgate from a breaker with an underslung spare.
Any opinions??

Cheers... Rob.

[dave.j.robbo]

I can't see any reason why it should be too difficult..

Once the wheel is out of the way, the carrier will just unbolt. Might have to do something to cover up the holes in the rear panel. I'd imagine the tailgate would be a bit of a mess, with lots of holes. Might be best to get a new tailgate out of a scr@pper, or find someone who wants to do the swap the other way round!!

[Chillitt]

what colour is your surf, rob? what you need to do, is park one like mine next to yours, and swap some bits over...i'd even throw in the wheel lifting gubbins...

[dave.j.robbo]

Underslung tailgate here.

But Chillit's idea would be better!!!

[ro80rob]

Well
Thanks for the advice. Seems its dooable, and there are even donor parts. I noticed there is a guy with the underslung on at work today. I think I will need to see mine next to his before I plump for doing any mod. Don't want to bite of more than I can chew. I gotta get the tow bar on first.

Cheers... Rob.