The JL factory tire carrier and tailgate was never intended to handle the loads associated with larger, heavier wheel and tire combinations. Many aftermarket tire carriers address this issue, but are complicated to install, require an aftermarket bumper, and add multiple processes to open your tailgate.
The EVO MFG JL HD Hinged Tire Carrier is a body mounted tire carrier designed to allow you to carry up to a 37” tire while retaining your vehicle’s one-handed easy access to the rear cargo area. Its design is tough enough to handle the stresses associated with larger tires and simple enough to keep all the functionality your factory tailgate already has in a simple easy to install and operate package.
The EVO MFG JL HD Hinged Tire Carrier is engineered for strength and durability. It’s made from 3/16” and 3/8" steel that’s been laser cut, CNC press brake formed, and fully fixture welded. In the factory configuration, the wheel and tire load is transferred through the tailgate to the door hinges. Knowing that this is the weak link, the Tire Carrier is designed to bypass the tailgate and transfer the heavier wheel and tire load directly to the hinges. The hinge brackets are made from the same 3/16 and 3/8" steel and are gusseted for strength with integrated bump stops that stop the weight of tailgate and tire when it’s fully opened.
The EVO MFG JL HD Hinged Tire Carrier’s mounting points are designed to work with your JL by transferring loads to the JL’s body in a location that is reinforced from the factory with multiple layers of strong, stamped, internal, steel gussets. The simple design keeps a low profile that fits the contours of the vehicle and carries the tire close to the body. Once installed, the tailgate will operate as before, maintaining the factory catch and the easy one-handed opening, while the beefy hinge hardware swings smoothly with the added weight of a larger tire. The tire mounting position is engineered to be adjustable in movement up and down as well as in and out. This ensures your tire will fit properly, won’t rattle, and gives you departure angle and rear window visibility options.
The EVO MFG JL HD Hinged Tire Carrier includes an integrated antenna mount. Install is simple and can be done with a basic tool set by any installer. It’s all bolt-on with no drilling or cutting needed. Compatible with Factory Rear Reverse Camera and 3rd brakelight. 
