Sprocket

I'm about to pull the trigger on a new lift and set of 35's... At this time I'm happy with the stock bumpers so I'm not really interested in investing in a new rear bumper/tire carrier.

Is there any way to strengthen the stock carrier so that it can safely support the weight of a 35" spare?

Thanks for your thoughts..

JayKay69

The weight of the tire will still be on the tailgate. I would look at or fab's tire carrier and genright's. Both allow you to run no rear bumper

Bubbacon

Nice but $$$

borrongo

I have the OR-FAB...it is a pain in the rear to install, but once installed, it looks great!...I recommend that you paint it; mine started rusting withing a month.

westchester

There is a well known aftermarket manufacturer that sells (or used to sell ?) strengthening brackets that mount behind the trunk sheet metal and support the stock rear carrier for larger sized tires.

I would NOT recommend them, they do not work !!!! Despite whatever strengthening these brackets offer, the spot welds on the trunk sheet metal pop and bust out with the additional weight of the 35s.

Unfortunately you will need an aftermarket rear carrier, or run without a spare and carry an air compressor and tire repair kit.

Hifirush

As many of the posters above mentioned, you need a tire carrier. The ORFab is the least expensive route I have found and will be ordering it as soon as I sell my stock Sahara wheels. If that is too steep for you, try carrying a patch kit and air with you, or put spare in the back, just secure it, so it isn't bouncing around back there.

I have used my gate for about 5 months. No problems, but I notice the tire back there now and take it off when I 4 wheel. It is just too hard on the gate and hinges that were never intended to carry that kind of weight. I have been lucky.

Seriously, save the money to get something that can take the weight and abuse if you 4 wheel. You won't be disappointed!