If you're looking for the cheaper option obviously the TF is the way to go. If you want a great bumper/tire carrier get the Expedition One. With the tire carrier linked to the door it also opens with no extra steps, open or close the door and the carrier moves with it.

 

My JK came w/35s and the tailgate rattled to all hell.

I installed the TerraFlex hinge w/the stock carrier and dead silence!

it's also only one motion to open the tailgate and put the top up/down/ load the trunk.

I didn't like the cost of another whole bumper or having to go through two motions to get into the trunk.

Only other problem was that now that the tailgate is silent, I could hear my doors rattling (dealer fixed last week).

the spare just touches the bumper, so I could put on a small spacer or riser to fix it, but I'd rather have the spare tight and low on the jeep.

 

We have a TeraFlex hinged carrier w/ adjustable mount on our shop Jeep and love it. Absolutely worth every penny.

Give us a shout for forum member pricing.

 

I also have the hinge and tire carrier. Just one quick question for guys running it with 35's, does your tire rattle a little when you close it? I have mine snugged as close as I can to the tailgate, the left side is compressing the rubber bump stop and the right side is against the hinge itself. I have played around with the position both in/out and I can't get rid of the slight rattle when I close the tailgate.

I checked with my buddy's Jeep running the same set up and also a 35" tire and it rattles also.

 

I don't - but I would check to make sure all the your bolts are tight. You could also have a few bad welds in the factory tailgate which will cause noises.

 

I have no noises from mine while driving or closing it, that I know of.

I saw some other reinforcement stuff on quadratec that puts more metal inside the tailgate... may be an option.

 

I went with the TeraFlex Hinge due to the weight savings and the simplicity of operation/installation/maintenance. One hand opening, bolts on in about 25 minutes, no pivot points to grease. My rear carrier/bumper combo weigh 88lbs, saving over 50lbs compared to similar all-in-one units. Every bit helps when your tires weigh 100lbs a piece.

 

I don't hear anything, its more a tire vibration. Nothing is loose, I must have re-checked every bolt like 5 times and everything is snug. I also played with the distance from the back of the tire to complete compression, only 1/2" from the tailgate itself to no contact. Each time the tire vibrates when I close the tailgate. Its a very slight shake and its rock solid once closed.

 

Well you guys convinced me to go with teraflex. Just ordered it from northridge. Now the waiting begins!

 

Anybody know who's got the best deal shipped? Thanks. Finally decided I'd go the Teraflex route. Seems like a great product.