I just got the bumper today and started the install. I expected it to be a tight fit, but it is turning out to be a real chore. I ran out of light to go any further tonight, but after fighting it into place, it looks like I will have to remove or at least disconnect the muffler so I can get the center bolts in. There's no room to get them in line to pass through the hitch plate. Anyone else have this experience?
If the muffler doesn't solve the problem then I'll just attach the side bolts and let the shop do it next week when I get the ome lift install.

 

I had to remove the muffler to get the bolts in the hitch plate to seat. I was happy to get that done. So I moved on to the tire carrier and now I have a list of other problems.

1. The latching mechanism is off by about 1/4", meaning if the latch is seated completely then it is about 1/4" to short, slide it out a bit and it will latch but that leaves the bolt holes off just a bit. It is correctable if I drill the holes out. I'm going to leave that up to the shop when I take it back so they can see it.

2. Most puzzling is the arm that the tire mounts to is at least 1.25 " too short for even the stock tire to mount to. the bolts will not come through the rim because the tire is pushing on the carrier. Not even close. They are claiming this thing can hold up to a 37" tire. With what a optional arm?

Im going to call the customer service number tomorrow, I don't hold much hope for that. I go on Wed to get my OME lift so Ill let the shop try to figure it out.

Other than that, I like the way the bumper looks I and would like to keep it if we can get the bugs worked out.

 

I just put my XRC on last week, you do have to drop the muffler to get those 4 center bolts in, It took a jack to support the weight and a co-worher to help me line it up.But other than that I had no issues, I think it was a great rear bumper/tire carrier for the price.

 

How long is the arm supporting the tire? There is no way 35" tires would fit on this one. That's my #1 complaint, it's like I got the wrong one.

 

aftermarket wheels have less backspacing which should solve your issue.....
or you could use a wheels spacer

 

The carrier is designed for different backspacing than your factory wheel. Smittybilt has excellent customer service. I am sure they will help you out.

 

Call Smittybilt. Ray and Matt are great guys to deal with. I'm sure they'll help you out.
Good luck.

 

I spoke to Ray this morning, he says there is an adapter for the stock rims so that it fits on the tire carrier. As for the tire carrier being 1/4" or so too short, that may be a gen 2/gen 3 mix up. He requested pics and said he would let me know what R&D says. I do feel better about it. I like how the bumper looks, I want it to work, but for that kind of money it needs to be right.

Oh and thanks for everyones info.

 

hey man for your handle you have to push it in tight flesh with the tire carrier and then tighten it so it doesnt stick out like that..... i had same problem but it was a quick easy fix and works great... o and the muffler does have to be removed

 

Not sure what you mean, but if your talking about the handle position being at 12 o'clock I asked him about that as well. He hasn't gotten back to me on it. It doesn't seem possible to move the handle any further. I have been told it should lay at the 3o'clock position when locked. Im thinking it has something to do with the generations of the tire carrier and bumper not being the same. I ll have to wait and see what he comes up with.