Mounting a spare tire on a Jeep XJ requires choosing between a sturdy rear bumper carrier and a tailgate-mounted hinge kit. The jeep xj spare tire mount you pick will affect how you access your cargo, how much weight your rear end can handle, and how your rig looks on the trail. If you are tired of that tire taking up space inside your cargo area, or if you just want a cleaner, more off-road-ready appearance, this guide will walk you through every option, installation step, and maintenance tip you need.
We are going to break down the two main mounting styles, compare materials and weight ratings, and give you a step-by-step installation plan. By the end, you will know exactly which mount fits your budget, your driving style, and your Jeep XJ. Let’s get started.
Jeep Xj Spare Tire Mount Options
When you start looking at spare tire mounts for your XJ, you will quickly notice two main categories: bumper-mounted carriers and tailgate-mounted hinge kits. Each has its own pros and cons, and the right choice depends on how you use your Jeep.
Rear Bumper Tire Carrier
A rear bumper tire carrier replaces or bolts onto your existing rear bumper. It swings out to the side, letting you open the tailgate without moving the tire. This is the most popular choice for serious off-roaders because it can handle heavy tires and accessories like fuel cans or a high-lift jack.
- Weight capacity: Most bumper carriers handle 35-inch tires and larger without sagging.
- Access: You swing the carrier out, then open the tailgate. Some models have a dual-swing design for better clearance.
- Installation: Requires removing the stock bumper and bolting on the new carrier. Some kits need drilling or welding.
- Cost: Expect to pay $400 to $1,200 for a quality bumper and carrier combo.
One common issue with bumper carriers is that they add weight to the rear of the XJ. This can cause sag in the leaf springs if you already have a heavy load. You may need to upgrade your rear springs or add a lift kit to compensate.
Tailgate Hinge Spare Tire Mount
A tailgate hinge kit replaces the factory hinges on your tailgate with stronger units that support the weight of the spare tire. The tire mounts directly to the tailgate using a bracket that bolts to the factory spare tire mount holes. This option is cheaper and easier to install than a bumper carrier, but it puts all the weight on the tailgate itself.
- Weight capacity: Most kits are rated for up to 100 pounds, which covers most 31-inch and 33-inch tires.
- Access: You open the tailgate normally, but the tire swings with it. This can be awkward in tight spaces.
- Installation: Simple bolt-on job. You remove the old hinges, bolt on the new ones, and attach the tire bracket.
- Cost: Typically $150 to $400 for a complete kit.
The downside is that over time, the tailgate can sag or the hinges can fail if you carry a heavy tire. Also, the added weight makes the tailgate harder to open and close, especially if you park on an incline.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you run a tire larger than 33 inches, or if you carry a lot of gear in the back, go with a bumper carrier. It is stronger and keeps the weight off the tailgate. If you are on a budget and only run a 31-inch or 33-inch tire, a tailgate hinge kit is a solid choice that is easy to install.
There are also hybrid options like the “bumper-mounted tire carrier with a hitch receiver” that let you remove the carrier when not needed. But for most XJ owners, the two main options above cover 90% of use cases.
Installation Guide For A Tailgate Hinge Kit
Installing a tailgate hinge kit is a weekend project that requires basic hand tools. Here is a step-by-step guide for a typical kit like the one from Rugged Ridge or Smittybilt.
Tools And Parts You Will Need
- Socket set with 10mm, 13mm, and 15mm sockets
- Torque wrench (optional but recommended)
- Drill with 1/4-inch bit (if your kit requires drilling)
- Penetrating oil (like WD-40) for rusty bolts
- New tailgate hinge kit (includes hinges, bolts, and tire bracket)
- Spare tire (mounted on a wheel)
Step 1: Remove The Old Hinges
Start by opening the tailgate and supporting it with a jack or a block of wood. The tailgate is heavy, and you do not want it to fall when you remove the hinges. Use a 10mm socket to remove the bolts holding the factory hinges to the tailgate and the body. There are usually four bolts per hinge. If they are rusty, spray them with penetrating oil and wait 10 minutes before trying again.
Once the bolts are out, carefully lift the tailgate off the Jeep and set it aside on a soft surface like a blanket. Do not let it hang by the wiring harness—disconnect the wiring if needed.
Step 2: Install The New Hinges
Take the new hinges from your kit and bolt them to the body first. Use the supplied bolts and tighten them to the torque spec in the instructions (usually 25-30 ft-lbs). Then, position the tailgate back onto the hinges and bolt it in place. Do not fully tighten the tailgate bolts yet—leave them a little loose so you can adjust the alignment.
Close the tailgate and check the gap around the edges. It should be even on all sides. If not, loosen the bolts and shift the tailgate slightly. Once the gap is good, tighten all bolts to the final torque.
Step 3: Mount The Tire Bracket
Most tailgate hinge kits include a bracket that bolts to the inside of the tailgate, using the factory spare tire mount holes. These holes are usually covered by plastic plugs. Pop them out and install the bracket with the supplied bolts. Some kits require drilling two new holes for extra support—check your instructions.
Once the bracket is secure, lift the spare tire onto the bracket. You will need a helper for this step because the tire is heavy. Align the wheel studs with the holes in the bracket and tighten the lug nuts to 80-90 ft-lbs.
Step 4: Test The Fit And Function
Open and close the tailgate several times. Listen for any rubbing or binding. If the tire hits the bumper or the rear glass, you may need to adjust the bracket position or add a spacer. Some kits include spacers for this purpose.
Also, check that the tailgate latch works smoothly. If the tailgate is sagging, you may need to adjust the striker plate on the body. Loosen it, shift it up or down, and retighten.
Installation Guide For A Rear Bumper Tire Carrier
Installing a bumper-mounted carrier is more involved but gives you a much stronger setup. Here is how to do it for a typical aftermarket bumper like the one from ARB or JCR Offroad.
Tools And Parts You Will Need
- Socket set with 15mm, 18mm, and 21mm sockets
- Breaker bar for stubborn bolts
- Floor jack and jack stands
- Drill with 1/2-inch bit (if your bumper requires drilling)
- Penetrating oil
- New rear bumper with tire carrier
- Spare tire
Step 1: Remove The Factory Bumper
Park the XJ on level ground and chock the front wheels. Use a floor jack to support the rear axle, but do not lift the vehicle yet. Remove the bolts holding the factory bumper to the frame rails. There are usually four bolts on each side, two on top and two on the bottom. They are often rusted, so use penetrating oil and a breaker bar.
Once the bolts are out, pull the bumper straight off. You may need to wiggle it a bit. Set it aside. If your XJ has a trailer hitch, you may need to remove it first, as some bumpers replace the hitch or require it to be removed.
Step 2: Install The New Bumper
Slide the new bumper into place on the frame rails. Most aftermarket bumpers use the same bolt holes as the factory bumper. Start all bolts by hand, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern to 60-80 ft-lbs. Do not overtighten, as the frame rails can crush.
If your bumper has a tire carrier that swings, now is the time to attach the hinge assembly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Some carriers bolt directly to the bumper, while others require welding a pivot bracket.
Step 3: Mount The Spare Tire
With the bumper and carrier installed, lift the spare tire onto the carrier’s mounting plate. Most carriers have a stud pattern that matches the wheel’s lug holes. Secure the tire with the supplied lug nuts and tighten to 80-90 ft-lbs.
Test the swing action. The carrier should open smoothly and lock in place when closed. If it binds, check the hinge bolts and adjust the pivot point.
Step 4: Wire Up The License Plate Light
Many bumper carriers relocate the license plate to the carrier itself. You will need to splice into the factory license plate light wiring and run a wire to the new location. Use heat shrink connectors to prevent corrosion. This step is required for street legality in most states.
Maintenance And Common Issues
No matter which jeep xj spare tire mount you choose, you will need to maintain it to avoid problems. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them.
Rust And Corrosion
Steel bumpers and hinges rust over time, especially if you drive in salt or mud. Paint any bare metal with a rust-inhibiting primer and top coat. For hinges, apply a thin layer of grease to the pivot points every six months.
Loose Bolts
Vibration from off-roading can loosen bolts. Check all bolts on the mount and hinges every month. Use thread locker (blue Loctite) on critical bolts like the hinge-to-body bolts.
Tailgate Sag
If you have a tailgate hinge kit and the tailgate starts to sag, the hinges may be bending. Replace them with a heavier-duty set. You can also add a support strut inside the tailgate to distribute the weight better.
Noise And Rattles
A loose spare tire can rattle on the trail. Make sure the lug nuts are tight. If the tire still moves, add rubber isolators between the tire and the bracket. Some kits come with these, but you can buy them separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Hitch-mounted Spare Tire Carrier On A Jeep XJ?
Yes, you can use a hitch-mounted carrier, but it will block your rear view and may interfere with the tailgate. It is not as common as bumper or tailgate mounts because it sticks out far and can reduce departure angle.
Will A Tailgate Hinge Kit Work With A 35-Inch Tire?
Most tailgate hinge kits are rated for up to 100 pounds, which is about the weight of a 33-inch tire on a steel wheel. A 35-inch tire can weigh 80-100 pounds, so it is on the edge. It may work, but you risk bending the hinges over time. A bumper carrier is safer for 35-inch tires.
Do I Need To Reinforce The Tailgate For A Spare Tire Mount?
Some XJ owners add a steel plate inside the tailgate to distribute the weight. This is not required for most kits, but it can help prevent the sheet metal from cracking. If you carry a heavy tire, consider adding a reinforcement plate.
How Do I Remove The Factory Spare Tire Mount From The Cargo Area?
The factory mount is a bracket bolted to the floor behind the rear seat. Remove the carpet, unscrew the bolts, and lift the bracket out. You may need to cut the carpet if it is glued down. This frees up space for cargo.
Can I Install A Spare Tire Mount On A Stock XJ Without A Lift?
Yes, you can install either a tailgate hinge kit or a bumper carrier on a stock XJ. Just make sure the tire size matches the mount’s capacity. A 31-inch tire fits fine on a stock XJ without rubbing.
Final Thoughts On Choosing Your Mount
Picking the right jeep xj spare tire mount comes down to your tire size, budget, and how much work you want to do. If you are a weekend warrior with a 31-inch tire, a tailgate hinge kit is cheap and easy. If you run big tires and carry gear, invest in a bumper carrier. Either way, you will free up cargo space and give your XJ a tougher look.
Remember to check your local laws about license plate visibility and tire coverage. Some states require the tire to be covered or the plate to be lit. Also, consider the added weight on your rear suspension—you may need to upgrade your leaf springs if you notice sag.
Take your time during installation, use the right tools, and do not skip the torque specs. A properly installed mount will last for years and keep your spare secure on the roughest trails. Now get out there and mount that tire.