just wandering if this set up is any good. i see everyone seems to like the lod tire carrier. don't have the funds for the lod nor do i want to wait that long. is the hanson tire carrier any good. it's $500 and i can get the smittybuilt for under $800. i'm not a big off roader, mostly daily driver. any feedback is greatly appreciated. this site has helped me make all my decisions for the jeep. thanks

 

I have read about some fitment and quality issues with the smittybuilt tire carriers. I would consider the Hanson or O-R Fab. You can get the O-R Fab with or without the can carrier.

O-R Fab:





Hanson:

 

the only thing i dont like about the or-fab is the drilling into the body.

 

Well, you have to break a few eggs to make an omelet. Anyway, Hanson makes good stuff.

 

will the hanson work w/the stock bumper?

 

The Smittybilt XRC is a great bumper. It has provisions for 2-drings and comes with a hitch. Plus the tire carrier can hold up to a 40" tire. The price is also right at nearly half of what the competition costs. Now if you are looking for light mounts, Gerry can mounts, hi-lift mnounts or other accessories, there are other bumpers out there but be prepared to pay for those luxuries.

I have been running my XRC since Feb and have taken it on rocky roads, back roads, pavement and everything in between and have had ZERO issues with fitment or function. Just like with everything, there can be some rotten eggs out there but I definitiely didn't get one. Also, mine was confirmed to be made int he great US of A!!!

 

Yes, it doesn't attach to the bumper in any way.

 

looks great! any problems with rattling? swings out great. i bought on for my tj and after about 6 months it started to sag and was hard to open(can't remember brand)

 

they make a tire carrier bumper as well

 

just basically need something to carry a 35. read alot about tailgate sagging if spacer is used. as for the bumper the stocks fine for now.