Thanks for the great replies guys. It was especially nice to see the hitch mounted version as well. I am looking at the tailgate replacement model that will mount a hi-lift.
Ah, well with the tailgate-replacement version, all my concerns would be moot: That one is supported on both sides (when closed) so it should
easily be able to handle the weight and as much bouncing as your body can tolerate.
Yes, price is the biggest hang up. I was lucky and found mine on Craigslist for a really good price but after using it, if I had to pay full price, it is an items that is worth it. Very heavy duty (actually rated higher than my hitch). and works just as it should.
IMO the price isn't bad when you consider that a full replacement bumper with a swing out carrier would likely
start at about $1200 and go up from there as you added options. To say nothing of the fact that you would then have to install it.
If you need a similar carrier and want to save money, CBI makes a drop-down carrier and I think it sells for under $300:
http://www.cbioffroadfab.com/produc...products/fold-down-tire-carrier-premium-model
Note: The above is for the "premium" tire carrier at $350, but I think they also make a "basic" carrier for under $300.
Of course, you will have to lift your tire up every time you access the tailgate, which means you'll either figure out how to get stuff from the back of your vehicle without opening the tailgate, or you'll develop GREAT upper body strength!
Another guy from our Desert Expedition group, Micheal (posts here under the name MJMCDOWELL) has the CBI rear tire carrier and it has worked great for him on his Ranger. He even scraped it a few times going up a steep and rocky trail and didn't damage it a bit - it're pretty stout!
I made my own bracket and used an AT fuel can holder, for my needs. I already had the holder and the scrap metal.
How does that attach to the can carrier? I can't tell from the picture. Does the can sit on top of that bracket or does it attach to the back somehow?