People are carrying 37" tires on their Smittybilt carriers without any problems that I've heard of to date. I don't see how 35's would pose any problem. The problem lies in using the stock carrier which causes a large tire to hang out too far from the tailgate with too much leverage. When you go over bumps the whole tire will shake and can stress the hinges and weld spots. I ratchet strapped my 35" to my roof rack because it was bouncing around on the stock carrier so much...that helped a lot. With the Smittybilt carrier, the tire sits close against the tailgate and snug up against the braces to prevent any movement. For a hundred or so bucks, I think it's a pretty good set-up.

 

Id love to hear from someone who has one of the smittybilt and see what they have to say about it...

 

I vote OR FAB. Although you should get what works for your needs, that's my vote.

 

The stock tire carrier on my wifes JK has developed cracks in it from carrying a 35. It is now in the back.

 

i say save up and start looking at craigslist i got my rear bumper from RR in craigslist real cheap it look new too and i just order the tire carrier from dave when he had the laborday sale, so just wait and look around

 

I actually posted a thread a while back asking the same question, but I think most people on this forum usually just go with a dediated tire carrier/bumper unit, so not too many replies. After reading through several threads on other forums though, I was unable to find any negative reviews on the Smittybilt carrier. Here is the thread I was referring to...

https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/arch.../t-173268.html


I guess it's just a matter of figuring out which sytem works best for you. Anyways, just trying to help out.

 

I have the Smittybilt with 33's. Been on for three months. Granted, there's not as much weight as with a 35, but I've had not one problem. Installation was a breeze and it looks great. Have had it off road multiple times with no rattle and no tailgate issues. Only complaint I had was with the bolts that secure the brake light. They are tiny and were a bitch to tighten. Plus, the light is just a little cockeyed. Honestly, no one probably even notices, but my OCD gets a workout every time I look in my rear view mirror.

 

I prefer this tire carrier/security system in one. If you look around you can find one cheap and sometimes even free.

 

Bestop is "supposed" to be coming out with a rear bumper/tire carrier that swings out with the door like AEV's at 1/2 the price. I've been waiting since EJS???