So...I have a 2012 currently interchanging at the train yard in K.C. I have waiting: AEV 3.5" lift kit, Pintlers, and BFG km2 35"ers. This is strictly an onroad daily driver which will see heavy snow driving but no trails. I have also bought the Daystar Tailgate Bump Stops and this reinforcement kit - http://www.quadratec.com/products/22202_1001.htm

Given the lack of off-road jouncing, is my approach enough? I don't want aftermarket bumpers, so my next step would be the AEV spare tire (only) swing-out mount, but that is a fairly expensive fix.

Bottom line: has anyone taken this somewhat bandaid approach and still had tailgate problems on a non-offroad JK?

 

From my studies on the subject, you might be ok and you might not. I know that doesn't help at all, but that truly seems to be the case. There are some folks on here that have ran a 35" spare on stock carrier for years with no problems. Yet others have wrecked their tailgate with the stock 32" spare.

If I were in your shoes, I would honestly consider the or-fab spare holder. Is it more than what you have currently picked up, yes. But I think it is a much better long term solution.

 

You will also need a spacer to move the tire up and out. Rough country makes one for about $45. I am running a 35" trail grappler on mine which is heavier than your km2 and no reinforcement kit and no problems. For street only that combo should be fine...even some light wheeling. I plan on getting a carrier at some point but for now it works fine

 

I know Yamaha90 is running a similar setup and has for years without issue. He is very careful abbot slamming it though.

 

Well I agree its on a case-by-case, but I'm running 35" KMs's as well. I have the spare on the stock mount and I do fairly bouncy rock crawling. I also have the factory spare rubber stops, so the tire has all the jiggling room it wants.

For the first 2 weeks or so running this set up, my tailgate was squeeking over every bump, but then it stopped. I've been running it this way for a good year now and just had the spare off the other day, no problems whatsoever.

Keep in mind a 35 km2 is a fairly light 35, so that def. plays a part IMO.

 

you'll be more than fine for street only

 

That played a part in my decision to go with the km2. I looked at the Nitto Trail Grapplers and they were HEAVY.

 

I have a 35" mtr/k on mine and have no issues. Tailgate hasn't ever made any noises, and I have beat the jeep to hell on the mountain roads up above Silverton (Alpine loop, etc) I have spent over 12 full days Jeeping on the bumpiest roads with absolutely no issues (knock on wood). You will be fine.

Oh I also have a shovel strapped to the tire.

 

If you decide down the road you def will feel a difference taking the tire off the gate.

 

Sooner or later it will destroy your tailgate. There's no getting around it.