Decided to lift the spare 3 inches & bring it in towards the end gate 2 inches. I believe that the increased distance between the tire & the gate caused by aftermarket wheels with less backspacing is one of the main causes of of gate failure. The added weight is also an issue. I addressed both.


Started with a 3/16" plate. I cut sections out to save weight.



I used 1/4" for the wheel plate.





Mounted a third brake light in the center.



Here you can see how close it puts the tire to the gate.





To support the tires weight I made a slider/ support that fits into the hitch.

 

How does the weight of your bracket compare to the stock one I'm assuming you removed?

Cool idea! That seems like a good way to mount a larger tire and keep it closer to the body

 

That's a pretty sweet home mod. I just got a welder this week at the house so I might have to try making me one.

 

Thanks. Mine weighs 12 lbs. The stocker was 4. With the wheel 2 inches closer & the support from the slider in the hitch I believe I'm way better off. Also I ratchet strap the tire down to prevent upward jolting when I hit bumps at speed, which I believe is a major player in the tear up the gate game.

Thanks, oh boy, you're going to have a blast with that welder. Check out my link in my sig. I just welded up my own bumpers last month. I love them!!! 20 bucks in steel each!!