MetalCloak SportGate Tire Carrier – Heavy-Duty Spare Tire Support System for Jeep JL Wrangler

The SportGate spare tire support system [patent pending] includes everything you need to securely mount an oversized spare tire on your Jeep JL Wrangler — while keeping the convenient “easy-to-open” function of your OEM tailgate handle. Designed for strength, stability, and full adjustability, it’s the ultimate upgrade for larger off-road tire setups.

Key Features:

• Laser-cut 3/8" Steel Bridge Plate hinge reinforcement
• Heavy-duty 6061-T6 billet aluminum hinges with bronze bushings
• Upgraded, larger-diameter hinge pivot bolts
• Adjustable height & width spare-tire mounting plate
• Integrated provisions for the factory backup camera
• Includes all required hardware
• Supports spare tires up to 40 inches
• Signature textured black powder-coat finish
• Rated for 130 lbs
• Made in the USA

Built for Bigger Tires – Strength & Adjustability

MetalCloak’s JL SportGate Tire Carrier provides the additional structural strength needed to carry larger, heavier spare tires.
Laser-cut 3/16" steel brackets reinforce the tailgate and create a mounting system that can be adjusted up or down to fit various tire heights.

Heavy-Duty Billet Aluminum Hinges

Crafted from high-strength 6061-T6 billet aluminum, the SportGate hinges replace the factory hinges with a performance-focused upgrade.

• Hard black anodized for maximum corrosion resistance
• Precision-machined for perfect alignment
• Engineered to withstand harsh off-road conditions
• Each hinge features a laser-engraved MetalCloak “M” logo

These hinges dramatically increase durability and eliminate tailgate flex caused by oversized spare tires.

Internal 3/8" Steel Hinge Bridge – Maximum Structural Support

The gold-zinc 3/8" hinge bridge is a critical internal support brace connecting the upper and lower billet hinges inside the Jeep’s tub.
Made from heavy-duty steel and coated for superior corrosion resistance, it:

• reinforces the hinge structure
• installs using factory bolt holes (no drilling required)
• distributes tire load evenly across the tub
• reduces stress and prevents long-term damage

This component significantly increases rigidity and confidence in your SportGate setup.

Bronze Bushings – Smooth, Long-Lasting Operation

The flanged bronze sleeve bearings inside the billet hinges are designed for long-term durability.
They provide:

• a low-friction pivot
• resistance to wear
• secure, no-shift placement
• self-lubricating material for minimal maintenance

A premium solution for smooth and reliable hinge movement.

Camera-Ready & Factory-Compatible

The SportGate system includes built-in provisions for the factory rear backup camera.
The final assembled structure also allows the tailgate’s rear vent to function exactly as originally designed by Jeep.

Important Load Rating

MetalCloak recommends a maximum wheel/tire combo weight of 130 lbs when using the SportGate Tire Carrier.