Jeep Gladiator Spare Tire Carrier

A Jeep Gladiator spare tire carrier must support the weight of a 35-inch tire without causing tailgate sag. If you are upgrading to larger tires, the stock tailgate hinge simply is not built for that extra mass. You need a dedicated carrier to keep your tailgate safe and your truck looking clean.

Many Gladiator owners rush into a tire upgrade without thinking about the carrier. That mistake can lead to a bent tailgate or annoying rattles. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about picking and installing the right carrier for your rig.

This is the core of your off-road setup. A proper carrier does more than just hold the tire. It transfers the weight from the tailgate to the frame or bumper. This prevents long-term damage and keeps your rear door working smoothly.

Why The Stock Setup Fails With Larger Tires

The factory Gladiator tailgate is designed for a 33-inch tire at most. Once you go to a 35-inch or 37-inch tire, the weight jumps significantly. A 35-inch mud-terrain tire can weigh 70 to 90 pounds. Add a heavy wheel, and you are looking at over 100 pounds hanging off the tailgate.

That much weight causes the tailgate hinges to flex. Over time, the metal fatigues and you get sag. The tailgate might not close flush anymore. You will also hear creaking and popping sounds on rough trails.

Types Of Spare Tire Carriers For The Gladiator

There are three main designs for aftermarket carriers. Each has its own pros and cons depending on how you use your truck.

Bumper-mounted carriers: These attach directly to the rear bumper. They are very sturdy and can handle heavy tires. The downside is that you need a compatible bumper, which adds cost.
Hinge-reinforcement plates: These bolt onto the tailgate hinges. They spread the load across a larger area. They are cheaper but not ideal for tires over 37 inches.
Frame-mounted swing-out carriers: These mount to the frame rails and swing away from the tailgate. They offer the best weight distribution but take up space behind the truck.

Key Features To Look For In A Carrier

Not all carriers are built the same. You need to check a few critical details before buying.

Weight rating: Make sure the carrier is rated for at least 150 pounds. This gives you room for a heavy tire and wheel combo.
Adjustability: Look for carriers that let you adjust the tire position. This helps with clearance and center of gravity.
Locking mechanism: A good latch keeps the carrier from opening on bumpy roads. Some have a secondary pin for extra security.
Finish: Powder coating or e-coating resists rust. Off-road conditions are tough on bare metal.
Backup camera compatibility: Many carriers block the factory camera. Check if the carrier includes a relocation bracket.

Installation Overview: What To Expect

Installing a spare tire carrier is a medium-difficulty job. You will need basic hand tools and a jack to support the tire. Most kits come with detailed instructions, but here is a general outline.

Step 1: Remove the factory spare tire and the tailgate hinge bolts.
Step 2: Bolt the reinforcement plate or carrier bracket to the tailgate.
Step 3: For bumper-mounted carriers, remove the rear bumper and install the carrier bracket.
Step 4: Mount the tire onto the carrier using the included lug nuts or bolts.
Step 5: Adjust the tire position and tighten all bolts to spec.
Step 6: Test the swing action and check for any interference with the tailgate.

Take your time with the alignment. A crooked tire looks bad and can cause vibration.

Top Brands For Gladiator Spare Tire Carriers

Several companies make reliable carriers for the Jeep Gladiator. Here are a few that stand out.

Rugged Ridge: They offer a hinge-reinforcement kit that works well for 35-inch tires. It is affordable and easy to install.
Teraflex: Their Alpha HD carrier is a popular choice. It includes a reinforced hinge and a adjustable tire mount.
Smittybilt: They make a bumper-mounted carrier that is very strong. It pairs well with their Atlas bumpers.
LOD Offroad: Their frame-mounted swing-out carrier is top-tier. It handles 40-inch tires without issue.
Mopar: The factory accessory carrier is decent for stock-sized tires. It is not ideal for heavy aftermarket wheels.

Weight Distribution And Tailgate Sag Prevention

The whole point of a carrier is to prevent sag. But even with a carrier, you need to check the weight distribution. If the tire sits too far out, it creates leverage that stresses the mounts.

Try to keep the tire as close to the tailgate as possible. Some carriers allow you to slide the tire inward. This reduces the moment arm and keeps the load more centered.

Also, check the tailgate gap after installation. If you see a larger gap at the top than the bottom, the tailgate is sagging. You might need to adjust the carrier or add a shim.

Dual Carrier Options For Full-Size Spares

Some Gladiator owners run two spare tires for long overland trips. Dual carriers are available, but they add a lot of weight. You need a heavy-duty bumper and possibly upgraded springs.

Dual carriers are usually frame-mounted. They swing out on heavy hinges and lock in place. They are not cheap, but they give you peace of mind in remote areas.

Clearance Issues With Aftermarket Bumpers

If you have an aftermarket rear bumper, check the clearance before buying a carrier. Some bumpers have a recessed area for the tire. Others are flat and require a spacer.

Measure the distance from the bumper face to the tailgate. You need at least 4 inches of space for the tire to sit without rubbing. Also, check that the carrier does not block your license plate or taillights.

How To Choose Between A Hinge Reinforcement And A Swing-Out Carrier

This decision depends on your tire size and how often you off-road. For daily driving with a 35-inch tire, a hinge reinforcement is usually enough. It is cheaper and keeps the stock look.

For serious off-roading with a 37-inch or larger tire, go with a swing-out carrier. It takes the load off the tailgate completely. The only downside is that you have to swing it open before you can lower the tailgate.

Think about your use case. If you haul gear in the bed often, a swing-out carrier can be annoying. But if you only open the tailgate occasionally, it is not a big deal.

Maintenance Tips For Your Spare Tire Carrier

Once installed, you need to maintain the carrier. Off-road mud and salt can cause corrosion. Here are a few simple tips.

Lubricate the hinge pins and latch every few months.
Check the bolts for tightness after every off-road trip.
Clean the carrier with soap and water to remove dirt.
Inspect the powder coating for chips and touch them up.
Test the swing action to make sure it is smooth.

Neglecting these steps can lead to squeaks and loose parts. A well-maintained carrier will last for years.

Cost Considerations: Budget Vs. Premium Options

Prices for Gladiator spare tire carriers range from $150 to over $1,000. Budget options like hinge reinforcements are great for light use. They work well with 35-inch tires and cost around $200.

Mid-range carriers from brands like Teraflex cost about $400 to $600. They offer better adjustability and build quality. Premium swing-out carriers from LOD or Smittybilt can cost $800 to $1,200. These are built for heavy use and large tires.

Do not skimp on the carrier if you run heavy tires. A cheap carrier can fail and damage your tailgate. That repair will cost more than a good carrier.

Compatibility With Aftermarket Tailgate Tables

Many Gladiator owners add a tailgate table for camping. Some spare tire carriers interfere with these tables. Check the carrier design to see if it leaves room for a table.

Hinge reinforcements usually do not block the tailgate surface. Swing-out carriers might, depending on the mounting bracket. If you plan to add a table, look for a carrier that mounts to the bumper or frame.

Backup Camera Relocation Kits

When you mount a large spare tire, it often blocks the factory backup camera. Most carrier manufacturers include a relocation bracket. This moves the camera to the tire carrier or the bumper.

Make sure the relocation kit is included or available separately. Without it, you lose your rear view. Some kits also include a wiring harness extension.

Legal Considerations For Spare Tire Carriers

In some states, a spare tire carrier cannot block your license plate. You might need a plate relocation bracket. Also, check that the tire does not extend past the side mirrors. That can be illegal on public roads.

If you run a swing-out carrier, make sure it has a red reflector or light. Some carriers come with integrated LED lights. These help with visibility at night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will a spare tire carrier fit on a stock Gladiator bumper?
A: Some hinge reinforcements fit the stock bumper. But most bumper-mounted carriers require an aftermarket bumper.

Q: Can I use a Gladiator spare tire carrier with a 37-inch tire?
A: Yes, but you need a heavy-duty carrier rated for that weight. A hinge reinforcement might not be enough.

Q: Do I need to reinforce the tailgate before installing a carrier?
A: Not if you use a proper carrier. The carrier itself reinforces the tailgate by distributing the load.

Q: How long does it take to install a spare tire carrier?
A: Most installations take 1 to 3 hours. Bumper-mounted carriers take longer because you have to remove the bumper.

Q: Will a carrier affect my fuel economy?
A: Yes, slightly. The added weight and wind resistance can reduce MPG by 1 to 2 miles per gallon.

Final Thoughts On Choosing The Right Carrier

Picking the right Jeep Gladiator spare tire carrier comes down to your tire size and how you use the truck. For most people, a hinge reinforcement with a 35-inch tire is the sweet spot. It is affordable, easy to install, and prevents tailgate sag.

If you plan to run 37-inch tires or larger, invest in a swing-out carrier. It costs more but gives you the best protection. Do not forget to check the weight rating and adjustability before buying.

Take your time with the installation. A properly mounted carrier will serve you well for many miles. And remember to maintain it regularly to avoid rust and loose parts.

Your Gladiator is built for adventure. A good spare tire carrier keeps it ready for anything the trail throws at you. Choose wisely and enjoy the peace of mind.