If you’re upgrading your vehicle’s spare tire setup, a swing arm tire carrier can dramatically improve trunk space and accessibility. This guide highlights five reliable options and explains who each is best for. Ideal buyers include off-road enthusiasts needing heavy-duty supports, DIY builders seeking installation flexibility, and anyone replacing a worn hinge kit. Below is a quick summary table of the selected products to help compare at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| ECOTRIC Tire Carrier Mount | All H2 Hummer owners | Easy bolt-on installation, no drilling |
| Smittybilt XRC Rear Swing Arm | Jeep YJ/TJ/LJ models | Adjustable mount, built-in safety catch |
| DHUJBFF Tire Carrier Hinge Kit | Custom builds and swing-away projects | Complete hinge and bearing kit |
| BODYARMOR 4×4 TC-5293 | Toyota Tacoma owners | Up to 37″ tire, bolt-on |
| MorningRo Hinge Kit | Universal installation | Includes bearings, hubs, and seal |
ECOTRIC Tire Carrier Mount for H2 Hummers
Best for: H2 Hummer owners needing a simple, bolt-on solution. This carrier claims universal H2 compatibility with a drop-down option, offering quick installation. Use this if you want a straightforward upgrade without cutting or welding.
- Fitment: Compatible with ALL H2 HUMMERS.
- Feature: Adds trunk space by relocating the tire away from the tailgate area.
- Installation: Bolts on in minutes with no drilling required.
Caution: Verify vehicle year and bumper compatibility before purchasing to ensure a clean fit with your tailgate.
Smittybilt XRC Rear Swing Arm
Best for: Jeep enthusiasts needing a robust swing-away with integrated safety features. The product offers an adjustable spare tire mount and solid D-ring mounts, catering to larger tires up to 37 inches.
- Features: Swing away rack with built-in safety catch; adjustable tire mount; fits up to 37″ tire; welded D-ring mounts.
Limitation: Compatibility is primarily targeted at Jeep TJ/YJ/LJ platforms; verify mounting points for your specific build.
DHUJBFF Tire Carrier Hinge Kit
Best for: Builders creating swing-away carriers or custom off-road setups. This hinge kit provides a complete spindle, hub, bearings, seals, and a dust cover for durable performance.
- Features: Durable weld spindle, tire carrier hub, bearings, seals, protective dust cover.
- Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward use in swing-out carriers or custom builds.
- Limitation: Some projects may require additional components for full integration into a specific bumper design.
BODYARMOR 4×4 TC-5293 for Toyota Tacoma
Best for: Toyota Tacoma owners seeking a durable, bolt-on solution with a high tire capacity. It supports up to 37 inches and offers a powder-coated finish for weather resistance.
- Features: Up to 37 inch tire; Easy bolt-on installation; Powder-coated finish.
Caution: Ensure bumper compatibility and clearances with your tailgate and rear fender before installation.
MorningRo Tire Carrier Hinge Kit
Best for: DIY installers who want a complete hinge kit with an enhanced spindle for stability. Includes slewing bearing, hub, seal, and brake cover for a full setup.
- Features: Mega spindle diameter ~1.5 inches; includes necessary bearings and seal; brake cover included.
- Versatility: Suitable for 33-37 inch tires; designed for bumper bodies with specific height ranges.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Swing Arm Tire Carrier
What should I consider before buying?
Assess tire size compatibility, vehicle type, and bumper design. A bolt-on kit is ideal for quick installs, while hinge kits suit custom builds. Consider weight capacity, corrosion resistance, and whether the carrier supports larger tires beyond factory specs.
Material and durability
Stainless steel and powder-coated finishes offer longevity in harsh weather. Heavy-duty swing arms are preferable for larger tires and off-road use, but may require stronger mounting points.
Installation and compatibility
Look for products promising easy installation with minimal modification. Confirm fitment with your vehicle model and bumper style to avoid clearance issues with the tailgate or rear lights.
Tire size and capacity
Ignore carriers that support only small tires if you plan to upgrade. Choose a model that clearly states compatibility with 33–37 inch tires for off-road readiness.
Maintenance and spare parts
Consider hinge and bearing kits that include seals and dust covers. This reduces maintenance downtime and extends system life on rough terrain.
What configuration suits your build?
For factory bumpers, bolt-on solutions are typically best. For custom builds, hinge kits with complete hardware offer more flexibility and longevity.
FAQ
- Q: What is a swing-out tire carrier best for? A: It frees trunk space and provides easy access to the spare tire, especially on larger vehicles and trailers.
- Q: Do these require drilling or cutting? A: Some bolt-on kits require no drilling, while others may require minor modifications; check product details carefully.
- Q: Can I install a swing arm on any bumper? A: Install compatibility depends on bumper type and mounting points; verify with the product’s fitment notes.
- Q: What tire size is supported? A: Many carriers support 33 to 37 inches; verify the exact range in the product features.
- Q: Are these carriers rust-resistant? A: Many options use powder coating or stainless steel to resist rust, but verify material specs for longevity.
- Q: Do these include installation hardware? A: Some kits come with all hardware; others may require additional bolts or brackets depending on the vehicle.