17. Mounting a spare tire on a Jeep Cherokee XJ requires a sturdy rear carrier or bumper bracket. The Jeep Cherokee Xj Spare Tire Mount is a critical upgrade for off-roaders and daily drivers alike. Without it, your spare eats up cargo space or gets left behind.
You need a mount that handles rough trails and heavy tires. Factory options are flimsy. Aftermarket solutions offer strength and style. This guide covers everything from bumper carriers to swing-out brackets.
We’ll walk through installation, compatibility, and maintenance. You’ll learn which mount fits your XJ and budget. Let’s get your spare off the roof and onto the rear.
Understanding The Jeep Cherokee Xj Spare Tire Mount
The stock spare tire location on a Cherokee XJ is inside the cargo area. That eats up space for gear. A dedicated Jeep Cherokee Xj Spare Tire Mount moves the tire outside. It frees up room and improves access.
These mounts attach to the rear bumper or the body. Some use the factory hitch receiver. Others require a custom bumper with integrated swing-out arms. Each type has pros and cons.
You must consider tire size. A 31-inch tire needs a stronger mount than a stock 29-inch. Heavy tires can bend light-duty carriers. Always match the mount to your tire weight.
Types Of Spare Tire Mounts For XJ
There are three main categories. Bumper-mounted carriers bolt directly to the rear bumper. Hitch-mounted carriers slide into the receiver. Body-mounted carriers attach to the tailgate or quarter panel.
- Bumper-Mounted Carriers: These are the most common. They use a swing-out arm that pivots away from the tailgate. They require a reinforced bumper or a dedicated bumper with a built-in carrier.
- Hitch-Mounted Carriers: These slide into the 2-inch receiver. They are easy to install and remove. But they block the tailgate and reduce departure angle.
- Tailgate-Mounted Carriers: These bolt directly to the tailgate. They are simple but can damage the tailgate over time. They work best for light, stock-size tires.
Each type has trade-offs. Bumper carriers are strong but expensive. Hitch carriers are cheap but inconvenient. Tailgate carriers are light but risky for heavy tires.
Choosing The Right Mount For Your XJ
Start by measuring your spare tire. Width, diameter, and weight matter. A 35-inch tire weighs over 80 pounds. A stock tire weighs about 40 pounds. The mount must handle the load.
Next, check your bumper. Factory XJ bumpers are weak. They cannot support a heavy swing-out carrier. You will likely need an aftermarket bumper. Many brands offer bumpers with integrated tire mounts.
Consider your off-road use. If you crawl rocks, a hitch carrier will drag. A bumper-mounted swing-out is better. For daily driving, a hitch carrier is fine. It is easy to remove when not needed.
Bumper Options For Spare Tire Mounts
Aftermarket bumpers come in two styles. Full-width bumpers offer protection and mounting points. Stubby bumpers are lighter but limit carrier placement. Both can support a spare tire mount.
- Full-Width Bumpers: These provide the most mounting surface. They often have built-in swing-out hinges. Brands like Smittybilt and ARB make popular models.
- Stubby Bumpers: These are shorter and lighter. They require a separate swing-out kit. They are good for weight savings but may limit tire size.
You can also buy a standalone carrier kit. These bolt to your existing bumper. But the bumper must be reinforced. Otherwise, the weight will bend it.
Installing A Jeep Cherokee Xj Spare Tire Mount
Installation difficulty varies by mount type. Bumper carriers require drilling and welding. Hitch carriers are bolt-on. Tailgate mounts are the simplest but least durable.
Always read the manufacturer’s instructions. Most kits include hardware and brackets. You will need basic tools: wrenches, sockets, a drill, and a torque wrench. Some kits require welding.
- Prepare the Vehicle: Park on level ground. Disconnect the battery if welding. Remove the spare tire from the cargo area.
- Remove the Rear Bumper: Unbolt the factory bumper. You may need a helper. Set the bumper aside.
- Install the New Bumper or Carrier Bracket: Bolt the new bumper to the frame. Torque bolts to spec. For hitch carriers, slide the carrier into the receiver and secure with a pin.
- Attach the Swing-Out Arm: Bolt the hinge to the bumper. Attach the arm. Adjust the latch so it closes tightly.
- Mount the Spare Tire: Place the tire on the carrier. Use the provided lug nuts or bolts. Tighten evenly.
- Test the Swing-Out: Open and close the carrier. Ensure it clears the tailgate. Adjust the latch if needed.
Some mounts require drilling into the body. Use a template if provided. Drill pilot holes first. Then enlarge to the final size. Apply rust preventer to bare metal.
Common Installation Mistakes
Many people overtighten bolts. This strips threads or cracks brackets. Use a torque wrench. Follow the spec in the manual.
Another mistake is ignoring tire clearance. The spare must not hit the bumper or tailgate. Test fit before final tightening. Adjust the carrier position if needed.
Do not skip the latch adjustment. A loose latch rattles on the trail. A tight latch is hard to open. Find the sweet spot.
Maintaining Your Spare Tire Mount
Spare tire mounts face mud, salt, and vibration. Regular maintenance prevents rust and failure. Inspect the mount every oil change.
- Check Bolts: Tighten any loose bolts. Use thread locker on critical fasteners.
- Lubricate Hinges: Apply grease to the pivot points. This prevents squeaking and wear.
- Inspect Welds: Look for cracks. If you see one, have it welded immediately.
- Clean the Mount: Wash off mud and salt. Dry it thoroughly. Apply touch-up paint to scratches.
Heavy tires can bend carriers over time. If you notice sagging, upgrade to a stronger mount. Do not ignore it. A broken carrier on the trail is a nightmare.
Aftermarket Brands For Jeep Cherokee Xj Spare Tire Mount
Several brands specialize in XJ spare tire mounts. Each offers different features and price points. Here are the most popular ones.
- Smittybilt: Known for affordable bumpers with integrated carriers. Their XRC bumper is a top seller. It fits 31-33 inch tires.
- ARB: Premium bumpers with excellent build quality. Their XJ bumper includes a swing-out carrier. It handles up to 35-inch tires.
- JCR Offroad: Custom bumpers and carrier kits. They offer weld-on and bolt-on options. Their products are strong and lightweight.
- Rough Country: Budget-friendly bumpers with carrier options. They are good for light off-roading. Not ideal for heavy tires.
- DIY Kits: Some people build their own mounts. This requires welding skills. It is cheaper but time-consuming.
Each brand has a different mounting system. Some use a single arm. Others use a dual-arm design. Single arms are lighter. Dual arms are more stable for heavy tires.
Price Range For XJ Spare Tire Mounts
Expect to pay between $200 and $1,500. Hitch carriers are the cheapest. Bumper-mounted carriers are the most expensive. Tailgate mounts fall in the middle.
- Hitch Carriers: $100 to $300. Simple and effective. But they block the tailgate.
- Tailgate Mounts: $150 to $400. Light-duty. Best for stock tires.
- Bumper Carriers: $500 to $1,500. Includes the bumper. Strong and durable.
Do not buy the cheapest option for a heavy tire. It will fail. Invest in a quality mount. It will last for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Hitch-mounted Carrier For A 35-Inch Tire?
Yes, but it will be heavy. The carrier must have a high weight rating. Check the manufacturer’s spec. Also, the hitch receiver must be rated for the load. A 35-inch tire on a hitch carrier can sag the rear.
Will A Spare Tire Mount Fit My Stock XJ Bumper?
Most aftermarket mounts require an aftermarket bumper. The stock bumper is too weak. Some tailgate mounts work with the stock bumper. But they are not recommended for heavy tires.
How Do I Stop My Spare Tire Mount From Rattling?
Adjust the latch so it is snug. Use rubber pads between the tire and carrier. Some mounts have anti-rattle bolts. Tighten them. Also, check the hinge bolts for looseness.
Can I Mount A Spare Tire On The Roof Instead?
Yes, but it raises the center of gravity. It also makes loading difficult. A rear mount is better for off-road stability. Roof mounts are fine for light tires on pavement.
Do I Need A Lift Kit For A Spare Tire Mount?
No. The mount attaches to the bumper or hitch. It does not affect suspension. However, if you have a large tire, you may need a lift to clear the bumper. Check clearance before buying.
Upgrading Your XJ For Heavy Tires
If you run 33-inch or larger tires, your mount needs reinforcement. The rear bumper and frame may flex. Add a brace or gusset to the mount. Some carriers come with a stabilizer bar.
Heavy tires also stress the tailgate hinges. If you use a tailgate mount, reinforce the hinges. Aftermarket hinge kits are available. They distribute the weight better.
Consider upgrading the rear springs. A heavy spare tire adds weight to the rear. Leaf springs can sag. Add an add-a-leaf or new springs. This maintains ride height.
Wiring And Lighting Considerations
Some spare tire mounts block the rear license plate. You may need to relocate it. Many states require the plate to be visible. Use a bracket that mounts to the carrier.
Also, the spare can block the rear lights. Install a third brake light on the carrier. Some mounts have built-in light tabs. Wire it to the factory harness. Use a plug-and-play kit for simplicity.
Check local laws. Some areas require the spare to not extend beyond the bumper. Measure before buying. A tire that sticks out too far is illegal.
Conclusion
A Jeep Cherokee Xj Spare Tire Mount is essential for freeing up cargo space. It also improves off-road capability. Choose a mount that matches your tire size and use case.
Installation is straightforward with the right tools. Maintain the mount to prevent rust and failure. Invest in a quality product. It will serve you for years.
Now you know the options. Pick the best mount for your XJ. Get that spare off the roof and onto the rear. Your Cherokee will thank you.