L/C 100TD spare

I submit this thread as an idea I had for the spare tyre on my 100 TD. I was told that the spare on a L/C 100 was vunerable to damage from rocks and/or stakes when off tar roads. Quotes for the tyre carriers from 4x4 equipment places were from $1300 - $1600. The carriers need to be swung out when opening the tailgates and shift a considerable weight further to the rear. My idea was to protect the spare in situ. The departure angle is really not an issue as the towbar is the lowest point so that negated that argument people had put forwarded. I bought a half sheet of aluminium alloy 1.6 thick and cut out a circle with a jigsaw. Then cut slits around the circumference so as to facilitate bending up and around the tyre. These slits were pop-rivetted so as to present overlaps to the rear. Two cuphead bolts are used to hold the protector onto the rim. These don't affect the chain lifter. A benefit I found when refitting the tyre is the protector makes sliding the tyre back under so as to lift back into position much easier. I drilled two small holes for drainage. These would be made larger should mud etc build up in the wheel. I have placed some photos in my gallery. However 50mb is very small and detail is difficult to see. I could e-mail larger versions should anyone wish. Costs :alloy sheet $64 + a packet of 3/16" rivets.
I cannot understand why Toyota puts the spare of a Prado on the rear and sells spare covers for them and yet the L/C has its spare underneath with no known after market protection available. Both are off road capable. The L/C probably sees more dirt.! happy meandering folks.