without the carpeted panel sinking into its housing? Thus far, air is the only thing that won't sink the panel. The overall design seems poor.

Can a full size spare fit in there? Will it prevent the panel from caving in?

 

You could always cut out a piece of plywood to sit on top of the panel, and spread any loads.

 

they expected a 1/8 inch long carpet shelf would keep the panel level, they were wrong haha. I use a bunch of blankets to keep the shelving level, it didn't even collapse with 750lbs in the trunk

 

Is that what you did? Did you cut it to fit the entire trunk area?

Did you set them underneath the panel?

 

The 2 foam rectangles on the underside of the panel are indeed meant to rest in the spare. I only experience caving when it isn't present (which is rare!) Fill the area under with something as tall as a full spare and you should be golden.

 

Will a full size spare fit under the panel and keep it flush with the rest of the trunk?

 

I have a full size spare and the panel still sags

 

yes, trunk looks completely stock, and you end up with a stash of blankets for emergencies/transporting objects in the back seat

 

Damn. So full size spare and a shim would do the trick.

 

That's strange, I never knew it, but I guess mine was modified before I got it. I've got a carpet covered piece of 1/2" plywood in mine. Never had any trouble...