For those who still have their stock tire carrier, this is a simple, cost free mod(assuming you have some basic tools). So I used a hacksaw, dremel, sand paper, screw driver, drill and flat black paint from the can.

I didn't remove the tire carrier from the jeep and no electrical wires were cut so this is pretty much a no-brainer mod, the only reason why I was able to do it. Total time was about 30 minutes including beer break.

So, I did this because I like the clean, uncluttered look with out the third brake light sticking up from my spare tire. To me it's always looked like the third brake light was an after thought and it just doesn't look right to me. That being said, I also would like to stay with in the law and if the third brake light stops some yahoo from hitting me, well it's served it's purpose.

Sorry I didn't take any pics of the process, but here's what it looks like done.

 

This looks good and you did a great job. I assume the only money that was spent was on the beer,. For the clean look of it would the little round brake light that goes in the center of the spare look better. I can't remember who makes it or where you buy it or even how much it cost. but you did a great job

 

Your absolutely right about the little round brake light would look better, but this was a "no cost" for me mod. One day I'll probably move the license plate to the spare tire and that has the led brake light on it, but for now this will do.

 

I hear ya on that. Money always gets in my way also. I also like this idea with the plate and brake relocations.

 

Done it twice once with the stock carrier and now with my or-fab very cheap mod guys

 

was going in to use shop today to grease,will probably do this as well,hate lookin at that thing in the mirror,thanx for hot(and cheap) tip

 

Never have liked the 3rd brake light either. Was just thinking of taking the damn thing off. Is it now a law that we have to have one? Anyway.........really like your mod. Good idea...

 

Since 1986, I believe.

 

My 93 YJ did not have one. I remember seeing one on a 95 YJ Rio Grande model.....

I like the disappearing 3rd brake light mod too!

 

Interesting question. I know that it's law a vehicle must be manufactured with them. But, I think that vehicle equippage for "highway use" is up to the individual states. And I wonder if most states changed their laws to require the third light. I'd say the best thing to check would be a safety inspection standard for your state (if it has one, Oklahoma does not).

I will say one nice thing about the third brake light: It created a nice path to route RF cabling for my CB antenna!