I'll make this simple by just putting up a poll. I plan on getting 35s. I'd like to hold off doing a rear bumper for a while since there are other more pressing issues. So deciding between OR-FAB Tire Carrier or just doing a Spacer?

Spacer:
Rugged Ridge 11585.02 - Rugged Ridge Tire Carrier Spacer in Textured Black for 76-13 Jeep® CJ-5, CJ-7, CJ-8 Scrambler, Wrangler YJ, TJ, JK & Unlimited - Quadratec

OR-FAB Tire Carrier
Jeep | SWING AWAY TIRE/CAN CARRIER JK (UNLIMITED) 2/4 DOOR | 85207

 

Tire carrier

 

Tire carrier, better to spend a little more in the end and not have tailgate issues. That's what I did but went with a genright carrier which matches the tubing of my stinger and also keeps the tire inside of the carrier rather than on the back more like the orfab

 

Go with the carrier. It is worth the extra expense. You take a chance of damage using the spacer, and it is just a temporary fix anyways.

 

I just put the Teraflex on. Great price and easy install. Running 35" BFG KM2s.

 

Carrier, it will save your tailgate. For $200 more than the Orfab, you can get a single action swing arm carrier AND bumper. High Rock bumper/ swing arm: Quadratec has it going for $770. There's also the EBay bumper carrier, but I don't trust how the surface mounted spindle that takes the hundred pound weight and torque is mounted. High Rock spindle is beefy and secure.

 

X2 on the teraflex.

 

i just got a rancho rear bumper with tire carrier , 499 from quadratec , very nice solid construction with good lookin welds . also has a nice finish on it . check that one out

 

Love my OR Fab. Definitely recommended.

 

Wow, great. Thanks guys for all the helpful info.

BlackRock thats looks great.

Carolina: could you add a pic of yours on your JK?