Once you go past 31" tires the factory spare floor location no longer fits — swing-out tire carrier is the standard answer.
The factory XJ spare lives under the rear cargo floor and fits up to about a 30". Once you're running 31s+, you need somewhere new to put the spare. Options:
1) **Cargo floor (inside)** — works for 31s, eats your cargo space. Use a Quadratec or Smittybilt tire mount strapped to the floor anchors.
2) **Roof rack** — possible but the spare's weight (~60-80 lb) on the roof is right against the often-cited XJ dynamic roof limit of ~75 lb. Hurts handling and is a pain to lift. Generally avoid for daily use.
3) **Swing-out tire carrier** (most common solution) — bolts/welds to a heavy-duty rear bumper, swings out for tailgate access. Adds 80-120 lb to the rear. Brands: JCR Offroad, Iron Rock IRO, Rusty's, M.O.R.E., Smittybilt XRC.
4) **Hitch-mount swing-out** — uses the Class III receiver as the carrier pivot. Cheaper than a bumper swing-out, but eats your hitch use.
Swing-out is the right answer for 33s+ and most moderate builds. Pair with a third brake light relocate (carrier blocks the original).
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| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| JCR Crusader rear bumper with swing-out | JCR Offroad | ~$950 |
| Smittybilt XRC swing-out tire carrier | Smittybilt | ~$550 |
| Wilco Hitchgate swing-out | Wilco | ~$750 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.