Jeep Wrangler Owner Upgrading Tire Size from 32" to 35", Tire Shop Employee Suggests Replacement of Spare Mount on Rear Gate Too
When upgrading a Jeep Wrangler JL to 35-inch tires, it is highly recommended to upgrade the spare tire mount as well. The factory mount, designed for smaller 32-inch tires, often cannot properly support the larger, heavier 35-inch tires, causing stress on the tailgate hinges, latch, and backup camera setup.
Common issues include rattling, misalignment, and potential tailgate failure due to the extra weight and size. Replacing the factory spare tire mount with a heavy-duty relocation bracket or a similar upgrade designed for larger tires is the best approach.
Recommended spare tire mount upgrades include:
- Spare Tire Relocation Brackets such as the RedRock 4x4 Spare Tire Relocation Bracket, which raises the factory mount higher to accommodate larger tires while maintaining sturdy steel construction with powder coating for durability. This is a bolt-on installation and can be completed in about an hour with basic tools.
In addition to the tire mount itself, consider reinforcing or upgrading tailgate hinges and latch mechanisms, as the additional weight of 35-inch tires increases stress on these components. Some upgraded mounts also improve backup camera placement and 3rd brake light visibility, enhancing safety and practicality.
Measuring tire sizes before purchase is important to avoid potential issues. Not all Wrangler trims handle 35-inch tires the same way; a Jeep Wrangler Sport may require a mount spacer, while a Rubicon can take 35-inch tires without issue.
Reinforcement kits can add strength to the spare tire mount on a Jeep Wrangler without replacing the entire carrier, preventing tailgate damage. Upgrading to 35s without reinforcing the mount can lead to tailgate rattles and hinge wear, potentially requiring expensive repairs.
When installing 35-inch tires on a Jeep Wrangler with a backup camera, adjusting the camera angle or relocating the brake light may be necessary. It is recommended to work with professionals when deciding on a spare tire setup to protect the Jeep and keep it trail-ready.
The cost of reinforcing the tailgate for 35-inch tires on a Jeep Wrangler ranges from $250 to $600, while a heavy-duty bumper with a swing-out carrier can cost $900 to $1,500. The decision to build for reliability as well as style is selfless in Jeep building. Best tailgate reinforcement kits for Jeep Wrangler JL with 35-inch tires have become popular among Jeep owners seeking both looks and durability.
Sources: [1] Armen Hareyan, Torque News, 2021. "Jeep Wrangler JL Upgrades for 35 Inch Tires." Accessed 15th March 2023. https://torquenews.com/1087/jeep-wrangler-jl-upgrades-35-inch-tires/ [2] RedRock 4x4, 2020. "Spare Tire Relocation Bracket." Accessed 15th March 2023. https://www.redrock4x4.com/products/spare-tire-relocation-bracket [3] Jeep Wrangler Forums, 2020. "35 Inch Tire Upgrade: Spare Tire Carrier Options." Accessed 15th March 2023. https://www.jeepwranglerforums.com/forum/23-jeep-wrangler-tj-lj-yj-tire-wheel-upgrades-mods/290878-35-inch-tire-upgrade-spare-tire-carrier-options.html [4] 4 Wheel Parts, 2020. "Jeep Wrangler JL Spare Tire Carrier Upgrades." Accessed 15th March 2023. https://www.4wheelparts.com/Jeep/Jeep-Wrangler-JL/Accessories/Spare-Tire-Carriers/cat-112219_112220_112221 [5] Quadratec, 2020. "Jeep Wrangler JL Spare Tire Carrier Upgrades." Accessed 15th March 2023. https://www.quadratec.com/buy/jeep/wrangler-jl/spare-tire-carrier/c-101459/
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