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When to get external tire carrier?

avei5150

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I am looking to swap out the stock (plastic) bumpers on the JLUR. In the not too distant future I was going to get 35's. I was trying not to overthink the process of swapping out the rear bumper, but, I didn't want to rule out the idea of a bumper system with an integrated tire carrier.

When do people make the jump to a rear bumper system with an integrated tire carrier ? The idea seems appealing as it reduces the stress on the tailgate itself. I currently don't think I would run 37's but that may change in a couple of years. I was wondering what people thought.
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avei5150

avei5150

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Would people recommend a re-enforcement bracket for 35’s?
 

Peanut Butter

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Your 35's should fit with the plastic bumper. My 37s just barely rubbed. Because of the rubbing, i got the RC relocation bracket. I would suspect that the 35s will fit with just about any aftermarket bumper.

I personally believe that having the spare attached to the bumper and distributing the weight to the frame is better than the rear hatch; especially while hauling off road.

When i replace the rear bumper, I will replace it with a tire carrier. I had one on the CJ and really liked it. The only thing preventing me from pulling the trigger now is that I can't find one that is priced at a point that I'm willing to pay. Even the EAG stuff on Amazon is ~$800 for the JL and ~$450 for an identical product for the JK. When those prices further align, I'll pull the trigger.

Though, Roams' is pretty tempting now.

As to the reinforcement bracket.... I would get a bumper with the carrier. Paying ~$400 to reinforce a tire that is only ~15lbs heavier seams like a waste (I haven't had any issues with the 37 and no reinforcement in the last 6 months). And, if you're going to spend $400 on a bumper and $400 on the reinforcement bracket, why not spend $800 and get a bumper with the carrier?
 
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RubiSc0tt

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My experience: Swap it as soon as you plan on wheeling. Granted, my experience is almost completely with TJ's so far, but the second you start bouncing around with that 100lb +/- tire and wheel off road, the hinges start to warp. While the JL's have been reinforced, I still agree with the poster above: I'd rather have the weight distributed to the frame than on the tailgate only.

That said: Does anyone know of a rear tire carrier that can accommodate the OEM rear hitch? I got the trailer tow package for the Aux switches and upgraded Alt, but now that I have the rear frame mounted hitch, I kind of would like to keep it. I was looking at the Roam one, but that already has a hitch installed. I had a similar set up on my TJ and while it works fine for recovery, I don't know that I'd trust it for towing anything- not that I plan to tow anything, but you know how the saying goes: better to have it, and not need it...
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