When replacing a missing spare-wheel carrier on a boat trailer, the type of bracket and fastener arrangement can identify the original C.E. Smith model. An exposed U-bolt, a bracket-retained U-bolt, a longer U-bolt and a welded offset carrier may all support a spare, but they are not identical replacements.

Identify the carrier by MPN and mounting style

Part number Mount type Dimension Finish Hardware
27200 Standard U-bolt carrier 8¾-in U-bolt Zinc plated Two nuts
27201 U-bolt with retainers Short U-bolt Zinc plated Two spin-on retaining brackets
27206A Extended U-bolt carrier 12-in U-bolt Zinc plated Two nuts
27310G Heavy-duty offset carrier 5-in rise; 4½-in side offset Hot-dip galvanized Carrier body and mounting hardware

Part 27200 is a short 8¾-inch U-bolt with nuts. 27201 uses retaining brackets. 27206A is a 12-inch U-bolt intended for greater reach. 27310G is the offset, heavy-duty galvanized side carrier with a welded bracket.

Verify the wheel and trailer together. Check the spare wheel's bolt-circle pattern, rim clearance, trailer-frame dimensions, mounting position and supplied hardware. A 4- or 5-lug wheel is not automatically compatible with every carrier, and the tire must clear the hull, ground and other trailer equipment.

What to examine on the original mount

  1. Look for a number or distinctive fitting. Check the carrier body and retained hardware. A loose U-bolt does not establish the exact model on its own.
  2. Identify the retention method. Two simple retaining nuts point toward the 27200 or longer 27206A style; the 27201 uses spin-on bracket retainers.
  3. Measure U-bolt reach. An 8¾-inch short carrier and the 12-inch 27206A suit different mounting clearance needs. Confirm the full original arrangement rather than relying on frame width alone.
  4. Look for a welded offset bracket. The 27310G lifts the spare approximately 5 inches and offsets it 4½ inches sideways. Check which clamp and wheel bolts are still present.
  5. Confirm spare wheel compatibility. Count lugs and measure bolt circle, wheel size, tire clearance and actual frame dimensions. The 27310G does not accommodate 5-on-5 or 5-on-5½ bolt patterns.
  6. Inspect condition and included parts. Replace distorted or corroded hardware and review each product listing for the exact components supplied before ordering.

Exact C.E. Smith part listings

These UsedRVParts products are catalogued as Brand New. Check each listing for current condition, availability and delivery or appointment-pickup options. The store name alone does not establish that a part is used.

Other trailer hardware reference guides

If the part you are replacing belongs elsewhere on the trailer, see our square U-bolt identification, winch-strap identification and transom-strap identification cover other hardware. The square U-bolts in the first guide are not assumed to replace any carrier's original fasteners.

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