RhinoTheExpo
New Member
I have a 97 that I am turning into a bit of a trail rig/light overlanding rig. It's capable enough as I have the limited slip and 4 wheel, as well as a decent lift and 35s, but I have to keep the spare in the back of the truck. It's been fine so far, but it takes up a lot of space and i really like the look of a swing out bumper with a tire carrier, which could also hold my jerry can. I've looked around online, and I see there are some options for hitch mounted carriers, but these are often only slightly less expensive than going custom, and this is a heavy 35 which limits my options somewhat. Also, every one I have seen so far holds the tire way out away from the vehicle which at the very least doesn't look very good. Ultimately I think it would be best to have a custom bumper fabbed, as it would be cleanest, most durable, and hold the tire closest to the body. Does anyone have any experience mounting a tire to the back of their first gen expy in any way? I know a custom bumper would cost a lot, I'm willing to put a fair amount into it, so does anyone know any good custom fab shops that they've had a good experience with, preferably in the Phoenix area?