has anyone attempted to relocatet the spare tire approx 6 inches lower? it sits unnecessarily high blocking rearward vision and would still clear the bumper if it were 6 inches lower.

 

Just put mine on last weekend. My only thought would be weld on another plate below the current bolt on carrier location or, bolt a plate to the factory location on the jeep side that would drop down lower. Drill new holes and move it down. I would mount it on the jeep side because the carrier adjustment should be fine to move the mount out enough to mount 35 or 37s. I would be worried about the flex without welding unless you trimmed the tailgate rubber stop adjustment flush so you could tighten the tire against the carrier frame. Any local welding shop should be able to slap a new plate on but there goes your pretty powder coat.

As a side note, I'm pretty sure the bolts alone for the XHD wiegh more than the old bumber. Time for more suspension!

 

I see a lot of jeeps rubbing Thier spare on rocks on steep angles. Maybe that's why it's up so high.

 

This...


If you really want it down lower..
-Flip the bracket that the spare mounts to and adjust it so its in as far as it will go
-buy a spare tire adapter for a stock tailgate carrier
-Mount the spare tire adapter upside down
-Enjoy lower spare tire

 

that's exactly what a friend recommended. do you have a link for the adapter or part number?

 

Tons of companies make them. Teraflex makes a nice one, but you can easily find them cheaper on ebay.