I've searched and read the many threads, but it always helps when i get my own opinions.

I'm looking for a rear bumper and tire carrier for my JK as I am moving to 35's (heavy nittos or MTRKs). My budget is around 800-1000, but obviously the cheaper I can get it for the better. Although I won't sacrifice quality for a lower price. It needs to be a stout bumper that can handle the abuse of being banged around on the trail. I also want the bumper and carrier to stay close to the tub of the jeep to keep/increase my departure angle. I've been looking at ACE, smitty, body armor, and racho. They all seem to be in my price range. I ideally would like to keep the factory tow hitch, but it's not a deciding factor for me. I like the BA rear bumper and for ~700 it looks like a steal, but the reviews on sagging and the latching mechanism (both old and new) have sort of turned me off.

Any opinions or recommendations are greatly appreciated.

 

In my opinion - ACE Engineering... Made in the USA, well engineered, and great price point. The light provisions in the back is a plus!

Feel free to hit us up any time with questions or for forum member pricing

 

I'm also open to DIY kits. My buddy welds and said he would do it for me and teach me

 

How do you feel about the teraflex hinge/ carrier plus a "diy u weld" rear bumper kit? You could learn to weld and have something completely custom.

 

I'm actually really open to that. Does anyone make bumper kits?

 

I'm running a smitty rear on my '15 JKU w/35s -- feels solid, doesn't rattle and has taken more than a lick or two in the dirt. It's massive and heavy, but I like the styling, and gets the job done. Cannot speak for the other brands, but I'm happy.

 

This is the only seller I've seen but he has different models.

http://pages.ebay.com/motors/link/?n...984292&alt=web

 

Not sure exactly which direction I'm going yet but that looks really cool. The ACE bumper is out of stock right now, and the NR4x4 sale has the terraflex rear hinge at a really convincing price.