Reviews for TACTIK HD Tailgate Hinge Reinforcement Kit for 97-06 Jeep Wrangler TJ

I have a 2005 TJ and I've been searching for a way to carry my 33x12.5R15 spare. I had to remove my spare from my tailgate because I started getting that annoying (and damaging) rattle. First, I tried extending my spare bump stops with hockey pucks and that worked for a while but the rattle came back. For a fear of damaging my tailgate, I removed my spare and stored it in the shop. After having a flat, 30 miles from home, I decided that it was time to do something...I began looking at bumpers with swing-away tire carriers but didn't want the added weight (we tow a pop up camper). One day, while continuing my search, I stumbled across this piece of ART!!! THIS is what I had been looking for!!! When the package arrived, I was surprised with the quality of materials and craftsmanship that went into it! This thing appears to be rock-solid!! It only took 30 minutes and it was installed! This kit is incredible! The tailgate operates more smoothly (no more vertical movement when opening/closing), the entire tailgate (hinges and all) are basically one solid piece! This kit merges with the tire carrier (I have an aftermarket oversized tire carrier) by overlapping on one side and you basically have a steel support system that extends from the left side of your tire carrier to the corner of the tub! If you're looking for a rock-solid alternative to a bumper/tire carrier combo, THIS IS IT!!!

This is a definite heavy duty upgrade as compared to the stock hinges. It was an easy install that took roughly an hour. I used a good penetrating oil and an air impactor to remove the original bolts. Didn’t have to drill any out on my 06 Rubicon. When replacing the bolts I did over torque one of the bolts and now the nut sert spins but I was able to tighten this with a little work. Overall very happy!

Wow. What an improvement. Wish I had done this sooner. Tailgate opens and closes so much easier. Took a couple of hours to install, I had to drill out 7 of the 8 screws on the factory hinges

Glad to find something heavy duty to carry my spare instead of a bumper mounted carrier. Installation is pretty straight forward once you get the original hinges off. Be prepared to drill out some of your old hinge bolts though. This seems to be a typical requirement. I had to drill out 4 of the 8. Once I got that done the rest went smoothly. Looks great too. I hope it holds up long term and protects my tailgate from the weight of my 33" spare.

Love it. Tailgate opens and closes with ease. wish they made it so all the orginal bolt holes are covered by the new hinge.

Great Product I gave it a try because it was on sale the problem I had with a bumper mounted spare tire holder was that now you have 2 steps to open tailgate and I knew that would get old fast. Very stout and heavy duty very good directions and easy install. Very satisfied with my purchase.

Excellent hinge , easy to install, opens and shuts with 33x10 .5 BF Goodridge MT tires on pro com rims better than factory hinge with no tire.

Beefy upgrade as the tailgate is much more stout now swinging open and closed. I'll be curious if it solves the issue of the rear hardtop window from "popping" open slightly when I put it back on before winter. Good looks and quality. Thanks.

Affordable alternative to a new bumper/tire carrier combo.

Good heavy duty hinge replacement, easy to install.