How to Safely Mount a Spare Tire on the Roof of a Jeep Wrangler?
As Jeep Wrangler owners, you are no strangers to the call of the open road and the thrill of off-road adventures. You know the importance of carrying a spare tire, but space inside a Wrangler is at a premium. One solution may be to mount your spare tire on the roof of your vehicle. Today, we are going to guide you on how to safely mount a spare tire on the roof of a Jeep Wrangler.
The Importance of a Spare Tire
Before we dive into the details of mounting a spare tire, let’s ponder on its significance. Flat tires can occur at any time and anywhere. You never know when you might drive over a sharp rock, debris, or encounter a rogue nail. Having a spare tire can be your saving grace in such unforeseen circumstances.
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Jeep Wranglers are built for rugged terrains and off-road adventures. The likelihood of tire damage increases in such scenarios. Hence, a spare tire is not just an optional accessory for your Wrangler, but a necessity.
Moreover, Wrangler’s standard spare tire is mounted on the rear door. You might prefer to reserve that space for additional storage or accessories like an LED light or a bike rack. In such cases, shifting the spare to the roof can free up valuable space.
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Choosing the Right Roof Rack
The first step in this process will involve selecting a suitable roof rack for your spare tire. Begin by browsing various forums and websites dedicated to Jeep products to familiarize yourself with different types.
Look out for a roof rack that is specifically designed for carrying a spare wheel. Ensure it’s compatible with your model of Jeep Wrangler – whether that’s a classic CJ, a modern-day JK, or another variant like the Cherokee. The rack should be sturdy, corrosion-resistant, and come with a warranty.
Consider also the weight limit of the rack. It should be able to bear the weight of a spare tire without damaging your Wrangler’s roof. Some racks come with added features like integrated tie-down points or cargo nets, which can offer added security for your spare.
Installing the Roof Rack
Once you have selected the appropriate roof rack, the next step is to install it. Detailed installation instructions will be included with your purchase. You should read them carefully before starting the installation process.
Most roof racks are mounted using the existing bolt holes on the hardtop of your Wrangler. You won’t have to drill any new holes, which keeps your vehicle’s roof intact and reduces the risk of leaks. Some racks might require additional hardware like brackets or mounts, which are usually included in the package.
Once the rack is installed, give it a good shake to check its stability. It should not wobble or make any noise. Remember that the rack will be carrying your spare tire at high speeds and during off-road driving, so it has to be absolutely secure.
Mounting the Spare Tire
With the rack securely installed, you are now ready to load your spare tire onto it. It’s recommended to have a helper at this stage as lifting a heavy tire onto the roof of your Wrangler is not a one-person job.
Place the spare tire onto the roof rack and align it properly. The rack should come with mounting hardware like a tire mount or a thread that screws into the center hole of the wheel. Once the tire is aligned, secure it using this hardware.
Remember to regularly check the tire mount for any signs of wear and tear. The vibration from the road can loosen the mount over time, so a quick check before each trip can go a long way in ensuring your safety.
Shipping, Handling, and Maintenance
When you order a roof rack or any other aftermarket Jeep product, make sure to confirm the shipping details. Reputable sellers will offer tracking information and insurance.
Once the rack is installed and the spare tire is mounted, proper maintenance is crucial. Regularly check for signs of corrosion or damage. If your Wrangler is often exposed to harsh weather, consider adding a protective coating to the rack.
The spare tire should also be maintained. Check for proper inflation, and rotate it with your other tires to ensure even wear.
In summary, mounting a spare tire on the roof of your Jeep Wrangler is a practical solution for freeing up space and maintaining preparedness for your road and off-road adventures. By choosing the right rack, installing it correctly, and maintaining both the rack and tire properly, you can be confident in your vehicle’s readiness for any journey.
The Implication of Tire Carrier and Rear Bumper Modifications
When planning to mount a spare tire on your Jeep Wrangler’s roof, it’s essential to consider the implications of your existing tire carrier and rear bumper. The standard tire mount on the Wrangler is on the rear door. However, when you opt for a rooftop spare, you’re left with a redundant tire carrier and an empty rear door.
This scenario provides an excellent opportunity for customization. You can delete the tire carrier, commonly known as a tire delete, to free up the rear door. But before you proceed, remember to consult a technical forum or a Jeep expert to understand the ramifications.
Many jeep owners replace the door-mounted spare with other accessories like pod lights or a bike rack. You can even opt for a rear bumper upgrade for enhanced functionality. Some Wrangler owners prefer to install a heavy-duty rear bumper with improved towing capabilities and integrated D-ring mounts for increased off-road readiness.
However, you must not forget that any modification to your Wrangler should not compromise safety or off-road performance. All changes should be made with the highest quality parts and should be performed by experienced professionals or under expert guidance.
The Cost Factor and Free Shipping
One factor that can’t be overlooked when planning to mount a spare tire on your Jeep Wrangler’s roof is the cost. The price of roof racks can vary depending on the make, model, and the added features. The average price can range anywhere between $200 to $800.
When buying a roof rack, spare tire, or any other accessories, ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Make sure to compare prices from several retailers. Look for product reviews, responses, and replies to potential buyers’ queries in the forum’s reply section.
Also, consider the option of free shipping. Some sellers and manufacturers offer free shipping, which can significantly cut down your expenses. Be sure to confirm this before making a purchase.
It’s also important to note that while going for the cheapest option might seem tempting, remember that quality should never be compromised. Your roof rack and mounted spare will be subjected to harsh weather conditions and rough terrains, so investing in the highest quality products is crucial.
##Conclusion
In essence, mounting a spare tire on the roof of your Jeep Wrangler can be a practical solution to free up space and be prepared for any road or off-road adventure. This process may be a bit technical and will require research and perhaps consultation with experts, but the benefits are worth it.
With the right roof rack and a robust tire mount, your Jeep Wrangler will be ready to take on any terrain, whether it’s the smooth highway or the rugged off-road trails. The bonus is the additional space you gain, which can be used for various other accessories or extra storage.
Remember, the key to a successful and safe spare tire roof mount is to choose quality products, follow installation instructions meticulously, and maintain both the rack and tire regularly. Happy driving!