Anyone run one of these Smittybuilt Tire carriers? http://www.quadratec.com/products/22202_2001_07.htm

I'm looking for an alternative to an expensive bumper/carrier combo. This mounts on the tailgate and claims to hold up to a 37" tire but I'm still concerned about the weight on the tailgate. Will this still mess up the tailgate over time? Or does this product work as stated?

Here's description:

Product Details
Attaches to the factory tailgate using the existing holes and requires no drilling or modifications.
Completely adjustable - Designed to mount up to a 37" Tire or up to 195 lbs.
Engineered to Integrated with existing tailgate and works as one solid unit.
Carrier and tailgate open and close as a single unit.
Adjustable arm eliminates tailgate sag.
Comes in signature series matte black textured finish.

For $100, I'm thinking about trying it out. Let me know what you guys think.

 

I would not recommend you go with any carrier that doesn't relocate from the tailgate. No matter how much they "distribute" the weight, your OEM hinges won't last long. There are some bumpers with carriers that can be had cheap. The Rancho is by far the cheapest, but doesn't allow any corner protection, and is very bare bones. Here are a couple that give good "bang for the buck". I can't recommend Autoanything enough. Great prices and awesome customer service:


The Body Armor rear can be had for approx $530.00 (with 15% off). Just call them and ask for 15% off, they will. Carries 2 Gerry cans, holds a Hi-Lift, and has a CB mount.

h**p://www.autoanything.com/bumpers/73A3830A0A0A2662592.aspx

Or, the Smittybilt XRC rear with carrier is around $719.00 from them after 15% off. Great bumper for the price.

 

+1 the hinges will wear out over time. I have had my 35 mounted on the stock carrier for just 2 months if that and I can all ready tell it's putting stress on the hinges. Because ever time I open it. It seems to feel a little stiffer.

 

X2, I think the XRC bumper/carrier is great for the low price, I am very happy with mine

 

JP Magazine has a good article on the many options for the JK rear tire carriers. I think it's the April edition (mags run 1-2 months in the future). Check it out online.

 

Stay away from the Rancho. Terrible engineering, poor powdercoating, and mine was delivered WITH RUST!

It's worth the extra $100-$200 for a better bumper and tire carrier.

I'm still in the process of trying to get it replaced or returned. Rancho has yet to respond to numerous emails, phone calls, and has terrible hours for customer service.

Avoid it at all costs.

 

Thanks guys. It's my feeling as well that the hinges are still going to be too stressed. I'm looking at the Rancho and Smitty XRC. I like the price of the Rancho but also concerned about the lack of corners. I'll check out JP. Thx again.

 

I run a 37" spare on my stock tailgate and have for about a year without any problems so far. When the stock stuff breaks I will replace it with an upgraded aftermarket part/system. The hinges can be replaced. Or even better yet maybe some kid in a Honda will drive into my back bumper while texting......