Removing the Jeep TJ spare tire from the rear gate reduces tailgate weight and improves rear visibility. If you are considering a jeep tj spare tire delete, you are likely tired of the sagging tailgate or want a cleaner look. This mod is popular among TJ owners who daily drive or off-road without a heavy spare hanging off the back.
The stock spare tire setup on a Jeep TJ adds about 50-60 pounds to the tailgate. Over time, this weight causes the hinges to wear out and the gate to droop. Deleting the spare fixes that problem and gives you a more streamlined appearance. Plus, you get a better view out the back window when reversing or checking traffic.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about removing the spare tire from your Jeep TJ. We will talk about tools, steps, alternatives, and common questions. Let us get started.
Jeep Tj Spare Tire Delete
Before you start pulling bolts, understand what a spare tire delete actually involves. It is not just unscrewing the lug nuts and tossing the tire. You need to remove the carrier bracket, handle the wiring for the third brake light, and decide what to do with the empty space. Some people leave the carrier off entirely, while others install a delete plate or a smaller accessory mount.
The main reasons TJ owners do this mod are weight reduction, better visibility, and preventing tailgate sag. If you run larger tires than stock, the weight problem gets worse. A 35-inch tire can easily weigh 80 pounds or more, which is too much for the factory hinges.
Tools And Parts Needed
You do not need a lot of fancy tools for this job. Most of it is basic hand tools. Here is what you will need:
- Socket set with 13mm, 15mm, and 18mm sockets
- Ratchet and extension bar
- Flathead screwdriver
- Wire cutters or crimpers
- Electrical tape or heat shrink
- Spare tire delete plate (optional but recommended)
- Zip ties
If you plan to keep the third brake light functional, you will need to rewire it. Some people just unplug it and cap the wires. Others install a light bar or a license plate mount with an integrated brake light.
Step-By-Step Removal Process
Follow these steps carefully. Take your time so you do not damage the tailgate or the wiring.
- Remove the spare tire. Loosen the lug nuts while the tire is still on the carrier. Then lift the tire off and set it aside. You might need a helper if the tire is heavy.
- Unbolt the spare tire carrier bracket. There are usually four bolts holding the bracket to the tailgate. Use a 15mm socket to remove them. Keep the bolts in case you want to reinstall later.
- Disconnect the third brake light wiring. The wire runs from the tailgate into the carrier. Trace it back and unplug the connector. If it is hardwired, cut the wires and leave enough length to reconnect later.
- Remove the carrier bracket completely. Lift it off the tailgate. You may need to wiggle it free if it is stuck from dirt or rust.
- Inspect the tailgate hinges. Check for wear or cracks. If the hinges are loose, now is a good time to tighten or replace them.
- Install a delete plate (optional). A delete plate covers the holes left by the carrier bracket. It gives a clean look and prevents water from getting into the tailgate. Use the bolts that came with the kit or reuse the factory bolts.
- Reconnect the brake light. If you want the light to work, run the wire through the delete plate or mount it elsewhere. Some people mount a small LED light on the tailgate or bumper.
- Test everything. Close the tailgate and check that it latches properly. Make sure the brake light works if you kept it.
That is the basic process. It should take about 30 minutes to an hour depending on how rusted the bolts are.
What To Do With The Spare Tire
Once the spare is off the tailgate, you have a few options. You can store it in the garage, mount it inside the Jeep, or put it on a bumper carrier. Many TJ owners with larger tires already have a rear bumper with a swing-out tire carrier. If you do not have one, consider buying a used one or a simple hitch-mounted carrier.
Another option is to keep the spare in the cargo area. This works if you do not carry a lot of gear. Just strap it down so it does not fly around during off-roading. Some people remove the rear seat to make room.
If you never off-road far from home, you might skip the spare entirely and rely on a plug kit and air compressor. That saves the most weight but leaves you stranded if you get a big sidewall tear.
Weight Savings And Performance
Removing the spare tire drops about 50-60 pounds from the tailgate. That might not sound like much, but it makes a big difference in how the tailgate feels. The gate closes easier and does not sag over time. You also reduce stress on the hinges and latch.
On the road, you might notice slightly better acceleration and fuel economy. The weight is gone from the rear, so the Jeep feels a bit more balanced. Off-road, the reduced rear weight can help with climbing, but it also means less traction on the rear axle if you are in loose terrain.
Overall, the weight savings are worth it if you care about tailgate longevity. Most TJ owners who do this mod report no downsides other than losing the spare.
Third Brake Light Solutions
The third brake light on the TJ is integrated into the spare tire carrier. When you remove the carrier, you lose that light. In many places, it is illegal to drive without a functioning third brake light. You need to find a way to keep it working.
Here are some common solutions:
- Relocate the stock light. You can unbolt the light from the carrier and mount it directly to the tailgate. Drill a small hole for the wire and use a bracket or adhesive.
- Buy a delete plate with a light mount. Some aftermarket plates have a built-in mount for the stock light or an LED replacement.
- Use a license plate frame with an integrated brake light. This is a clean option if you move the license plate to the tailgate.
- Install a light bar with brake function. Some off-road light bars have a red brake light mode. Mount it on the bumper or roll bar.
Whichever option you choose, make sure the light is visible from behind. Test it with a friend or use a reflection.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Do not just cut the wires and leave them hanging. That is a fire risk and looks bad. Always cap or tape the ends. Also, do not overtighten the delete plate bolts. The tailgate metal is thin and can strip easily.
Another mistake is forgetting to adjust the tailgate latch. After removing the weight, the gate might sit differently. If it rattles or does not close smoothly, adjust the striker plate on the tub.
Some people try to remove the carrier without disconnecting the brake light wire first. That can pull the wire out of the connector and cause a short. Always unplug it before unbolting.
Cost Of A Spare Tire Delete
The cost varies depending on what you buy. If you just remove the tire and carrier, it is free. But you will likely want a delete plate to cover the holes. Delete plates cost between $30 and $80. Some are made of steel, others are aluminum or plastic.
If you need a new third brake light or a relocation kit, add another $20 to $50. Total cost is usually under $100 if you do the work yourself. That is cheap compared to buying a new tailgate or fixing sagging hinges.
Alternatives To Full Delete
If you are not ready to remove the spare entirely, consider these alternatives:
- Install a hinge reinforcement kit. This strengthens the tailgate so it can handle the weight better. It is a good middle ground.
- Use a lighter spare tire. Swap your heavy mud tire for a smaller or lighter spare. Even a donut spare saves weight.
- Mount the spare on a bumper carrier. This takes the weight off the tailgate but keeps the spare accessible.
These options let you keep a spare without the tailgate sag. They cost more than a delete but less than a full bumper replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will removing the spare tire affect my Jeep TJ’s handling?
You might notice a slight improvement in acceleration and braking due to less weight. The rear end feels lighter, but handling is not dramatically different. Off-road, you lose some rear traction if the terrain is loose.
Do I need a delete plate for my Jeep TJ spare tire delete?
Not strictly, but it is recommended. The delete plate covers the bolt holes and gives a finished look. Without it, water and dirt can get into the tailgate, causing rust.
Can I keep the third brake light after a spare tire delete?
Yes. You can relocate the stock light or buy a delete plate with a light mount. Many aftermarket kits include a bracket for the brake light.
How much weight does a Jeep TJ spare tire delete save?
You save about 50-60 pounds from the tailgate. The exact weight depends on the tire size and wheel type. A stock 29-inch tire with a steel wheel is on the lighter side, while a 33-inch mud tire is heavier.
Is it legal to drive without a spare tire?
Yes, in most places. There is no law requiring a spare tire on passenger vehicles. However, you must have a working third brake light if your vehicle came with one from the factory.
Final Thoughts
The Jeep TJ spare tire delete is a simple mod that solves a common problem. It stops tailgate sag, improves rear visibility, and gives your Jeep a cleaner look. The process is straightforward and cheap, especially if you do it yourself.
Just remember to handle the brake light wiring properly and secure any loose bolts. If you off-road frequently, consider keeping a spare somewhere else, like on a bumper carrier or inside the Jeep. For daily driving, a plug kit and compressor might be enough.
Overall, this is one of the best modifications you can do for a TJ with a sagging tailgate. It takes less than an hour and makes a big difference in how the Jeep feels and looks. Give it a try and see for yourself.