Update/WARNING! being that this was my first "mod", i had no knowledge of the issues surrounding
jeep tailgates. They just aren't built to hold alot of weight, i guess not being able to close the tailgate when 3 bikes
were loaded should have been my first hint. After learning more, I found that mounting a 33" or larger spare onto the
stock tailgate is a roll-of-the-dice move sometimes resulting in major damage, and almost always resulting in tweaked/damaged/mishaped
tailgates. That is why, like most others, i will be buying a new
bumper/tire carrier when money allows. I do still use this bike rack, because i have no other choice...but i will ONLY mount 1 bike
on it...and NEVER drive over rough terrain with it. Unless you're never going to mount a spare tire any larger than
a 225/75 AND not drive over rough terrain AND rarely haul more than 1 bike a hitch mounted bike rack is definately the best
option.