I'm looking into getting one. I've heard and read a few opinions of what they've experienced, either recommending or cursing out. Not sold yet on one in particular. Aiming towards the AEV but still not too sure of the look.

 

I have the Rugid Ridge bumper and tire carrier, it really sucks, it rattles, it's rusting, the latch doesn't hold it closed anymore, I have to tie it off with a peice of rope, and it was shipped with the wrong lugs to fit a Jeep lug nut. Guess theres not much more bad I can say about it.

 

Rugged Ridge seems to have cheap stuff. both in price and quality.

I have the TerraFlex carrier that just bolts on in place of the stock hinges. Not cheap ($450, free ship on eBay), but I LOVE IT.

I have a 35 spare, and before it would rattle to all hell.

Now, not a single noise from the tailgate.

And, I don't have to go through 2 motions to get the tailgait open to put the top down.

just open it like it's all factory. Also kept the factory 3rd brake light. The spare just touches the rear bumper a hair, but I see no problem w/that. I'd rather have it tight and close to the jeep.

anyway; other than the price; the TerraFlex one is AWESOME in my book.

 

i went with expedition one. Lemme tell ya: LOVE IT
solid as a ROCK...no rattles...follows the lines of the Jeep unlikesome others....can use factory tow package.
pricey, but, incomparison to all the other bumpers with rear carriers...right on track.
check out other reviews on it...

 

Another Expedition One owner and it's great. Solid, no rattles, tire carrier opens with the door. I'd buy it again.

 

Rugged ridge..... No complaints here about it.... I guess I got the ONE good one they made cuz everyone I see with one hates it.

 

After looking at all the other manufacturers, I chose the Expedition One rear and would definately buy it again.

- solid, sturdy and very well built, doesnt rattle or shake
- works with stock and aftermarket rear hitch.
- I wanted full width for rear protection.
- smoothly opens with JK's rear gate.
- heavy, but simple home install.
- plenty of mounting points for bolting on accessories (Hi-Lift bracket, CB bracket, Lights).
- not cheap - you get what you pay for. The free shipping from a couple of suppliers helps.
- very well built and sturdy enough to be jacked-up with Hi-Lift if needed

 

I have the Rugged ridge as well front and rear bumper --- no issues no rust had it over a year now no complaints...

 

LOD 3rd gen linked... Thing is built solid like a tank.. Give Chris a call you won't be disappointed. Absolutely no rattles .. You can see it in my pics.

 

I have had the rugged ridge carrier and the LOD gen 3 linked carrier on previous jeeps. I flip jeeps enough to really fine tune what I like and what I don't. I hated the RR. It was loud and contacted the screw at the bottom of the license plate holder and made a screeching sound. The LOD was a fantastic system. When adjusted correctly it was very quiet. The one open motion was great too. However, I ended up adjusting the linkage frequently which got annoying. I love my current set up of TF HD hinge and carrier + LOD shorty rear. I added 4" LED to the bumper for additional lighting. Love the lines of the bumper, best looking IMHO. I will echo previous statements, you can't get quieter and more solid than the TF carrier and that's with a heavy 37" and beadlocks.