Having a '61 Bambi myself, I am familiar with your issues.
When I purchased my Bambi, the previous owner had crafted a very nice spare
tire holder that was mounted to the rear bumper. Although it was nicely
done, I did not believe the additional weight hanging off the rear end was
good for the small Bambi frame. It's not that much weight, but when you
consider the leverage created by hanging that weight beyond the end of a
frame that was not designed to carry that load, it just didn't seem smart.
That said, I carry my spare right inside the door on the floor. Granted,
it's not that convenient to get in the trailer while we're traveling. It's
no big deal once you arrive at your destination. Just set it aside.
As for the towing equipment, I don't find the bars absolutely necessary for
the small trailer, but they definitely make a difference. I don't use sway
bars, but I do use the weight distribution system that came on the trailer.
I tow with a 2000 4Runner which is fully capable of comfortably towing this
trailer (contrary to some opinions on this list), but it does ride better
with the weight distribution equipment hooked up.
Don't forget a brake controller if you haven't already got one. I use the
Prodigy, but there are several good units available. make sure you have it
installed by someone who can test it. I made the mistake of having U-haul
install it (right after they started selling them). They had no way of
testing anything but power to the unit. When I hooked up, it didn't work.
I had them re-do it at another U-Haul location for free. Duh. It still
didn't work. I finally paid a competent installer at an RV store to
properly install it and it works great.
Best of luck,
Wally
www.vintageairstreamer.com
>I am a teacher so I know that there are no stupid questions, but where do
>we
> store a spare tire on our Bambi? Also will I need sway bars and a load
> leveler for a long trip?