Having a mount on the tailgate will make opening and closing it a lot easier. The downside to it is that unless you install some kind of reinforcement, the added weight can cause failure of the tailgate. You can mitigate a lot of the problem by ensuring the sidewall is pressing firmly against the rubber isolators (assuming you still have them or install a set). However, I would still recommend something to help support the added weight, especially if you carry something like a 37" tire.Our 2013 JKU did not have a spare tire mount when we bought it and we are leaning towards a tailgate mount instead of a swing arm.
Just wondering if there are any pros or cons, or if anyone has a recommendation.
Thanks, with some hefty 34"s we will look at the reinforcement kits as well. Just to be on the safe side.Having a mount on the tailgate will make opening and closing it a lot easier. The downside to it is that unless you install some kind of reinforcement, the added weight can cause failure of the tailgate. You can mitigate a lot of the problem by ensuring the sidewall is pressing firmly against the rubber isolators (assuming you still have them or install a set). However, I would still recommend something to help support the added weight, especially if you carry something like a 37" tire.
Carrying the weight on the bumper or frame will be stronger but it does take more effort to open and close the back and depending on the make, there can be other issues like more added rear end weight and rattling.
Second that ^^I run one of these Rusty carriers on my JL. IMHO, it's one of the nicest of these styles out there. It's been on for a year and a half carrying a 37" tire with no rattles. It has an adjustable bump on it so it doesn't jiggle and stays snug.
Rusty's Tire Carrier - 2007-2018 JK Wrangler
When the team at Rusty's started to work on the design of a unique tire carrier, we knew the number one thing was to keep it simple. Among our requirements was that a woman with a child in her arms had to be able to open and close it with one hand, and it had to be able to support a 40-inch...www.rustysoffroad.com
The people you come across or know are buying ShittyBilt or similar. I've had an LOD bumper/carrier on the back of my jeep for the last 11 years and it's still as solid as day one. And cheaper?? I guess if $1400.00 is cheap then you're right. lolI prefer a tailgate mounted carrier for a few different reasons.
One, I'm running Evo's Rear Fascia which is basically a bumper delete that looks nice. Two, I like the ease of having the tailgate open with one action. Three, I think it gives a cleaner, maybe even amost more factory look than a bumper mounted swing out carrier. And four, maybe most importantly, will never rattle. Everyone I've known and come across who runs a bumper tire carrier complains that while it may be strong, it rattles like a bitch and adds too much weight over the rear. It seems that most bumper/carrier combos are usually more affordable as well so that says it all right there.
I'm running EVO's tailgate mounted carrier with 35s on my JK and am super happy with the results as it perfectly balances functionality, accessibility, and looks in my opinion.
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Funny enough, wife had already picked this one as her choice.I'm running the EVO Pro Series Tailgate mount also... (the one with the plate relocated is the Current state)View attachment 370658
I literally just bought this tire carrier and bumper delete from EVO today.I'm running the EVO Pro Series Tailgate mount also... (the one with the plate relocated is the Current state)View attachment 370658