The BAL 28240 Retract-A-Spare is a cable-operated carrier that stores one spare tire beneath a trailer. A hand ratchet lowers the wheel to the ground without removing the full carrier. The manufacturer's exploded diagram identifies the adjustable channel, frame support wings and mounting hardware, while its repair guide covers the cable-drive mechanism.
Identify the carrier before ordering
Model 28240 telescopes to fit a 52–72-inch trailer frame, but must not be cut shorter to fit a narrower frame. It is designed for travel trailers and fifth wheels rather than motorhomes. The mechanism uses a cable and tire cradle, not the sliding pivot assembly of the BAL Hide-A-Spare range.
Original exploded assembly and repair diagrams
28240 parts and installation
Cable-drive service instructions
On a phone, the PDF links open a separate viewer so the component labels and service images can be enlarged.
Numbered assembly parts: items 1–7
| Item | BAL part number | Description | Qty. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 503038 | 3/8-16 × 1¼ in zinc-plated mounting bolt | 4 |
| 2 | 10500070 | 3/8-16 × ⅞ in support-wing bolt | 4 |
| 3 | 20400092 | Outer carrier channel weldment | 1 |
| 4 | 20400101 | Adjustable telescoping channel | 1 |
| 5 | 20400102 | Bolt-on tire support wing | 2 |
| 6 | BAL1012 | 3/8-16 × 2½ in coupling bolt | 1 |
| 7 | BAL1014 | 3/8-16 nylon insert nut | 9 |
The support wings fasten to the main carrier before it is attached to the frame rails. The adjustable channel is then secured at the required extension with a coupling bolt. Check the factory manual for exact drilling positions and torque specifications.
Cable, molded block and retaining-nut replacements
| Part number | Component | Selection guidance |
|---|---|---|
| 20400010 | Molded tire retaining nut — View on NewRVParts | For aftermarket 28240 and specified OEM carrier models |
| 20400011 | Molded retaining block | For 28240 and specified OEM carrier models |
| 20400012 | 50.75-in cable assembly with tire cradle | Match existing cable length before replacement |
| 20400023 | 36.35-in cable assembly with tire cradle | Not interchangeable by length alone |
| 10500024 | 3/16 × ¾-in dowel pin | Referenced in the threaded-rod/block service instructions |
The two replacement cable assemblies have different lengths. Select by the exact installed carrier configuration and original cable length, not just by the Retract-A-Spare name. The 20400010 molded retaining nut is not a wheel lug nut.
For a carrier that folds and slides outward instead of lowering the tire on a cable, compare the BAL 28217B and 28218B Hide-A-Spare guide. For bumper-mounted tire carriers see the Stromberg Carlson TR-1/TR-2 guide.
Parts pictured in this guide
Select an image for product details, or view the diagrams and parts lists. Match the complete model and part number before ordering.
BAL 20400010 Molded Retract-A-Spare Tire Carrier Retaining NutPart 20400010 · Component illustration