I've been contemplating getting the TF hinge carrier but am reluctant to spend the extra cash on the adjustable mount. I keep reading about metal and weld failures. What I'm thinking is just getting some 1/4" plate, section of 8" pipe, and fabbing something up. Waiting for my wheels/tires to get the spacing figured out to keep it as tight as possible to the tail gate and high enough to keep it out of the way when wheeling. I tried searching and couldn't find where anyone has done something like this. Bad idea? Any input is greatly appreciated.

 

I looked at the TF tire carrier but didn't want to spend $500+ so I extended my stock spare tire stops with some rubber hose from the local hardware store. Cut to length so the sidewall sits flush with end of rubber hose.

 

I thought about just using the stock mount but my new rims are only 3.5" of back space and I plan on running 37’s. Gonna hang pretty far away from the gate and be fairly heavy creating a lot of leverage on that mount. Plus I used to drag my 35’s enough to bother me when wheelin. Want to keep these high and tight.