33" Spare Tire and tailgate latch

[HoHoDad]

Quick question, I bought my TJ about a month ago and the 33" spare tire is mounted on the tailgate like normal.. only problem is the tire blocks the tailgate latch from opening... Down the road I plan on getting a bumper mounter tire carrier but for the time being I need to keep it where it is... I see Tailgate tire extenders like Rampage but I see mixed reviews.... What are good options?..... It is a PITA to get anything in the back the way it is now.. Thanks Ted

 

[Rob5589]

You don't want anything that places it further away from the gate. Too much leverage on the hinges, even temporarily. If it just raises it it should be fine in the short term.

 

[HoHoDad]

Thanks Rob.. I was thinking the same thing.. not good on the hinges.. Looking at it I think the stock bracket has been moved up and to the pax side a little.. I am thinking I can move it to the pax side a little more I just need a 1/4" to clear....

 

[Rob5589]

If you want to stay with the factory style tailgate mount, check out the Exogate. It reinforces the factory configuration and places no weight on the bumper. No need to open the tire carrier then the gate to get to stuff.