Why mount to the body? Because it is simple. Easy to install, easy to adjust, easy to live with.
The developed and patent-pending SportGate system is a complete kit for mounting an oversized spare tire on the Jeep JL – while keeping the convenience of easy opening via the factory tailgate handle. Mounts for the factory reversing camera are built in, and the whole construction keeps the rear tailgate vent working correctly, as the manufacturer intended.
Reinforced billet aluminum hinges
Made from strong 6061-T6 aluminum, the Heavy Duty SportGate Tire Carrier hinges are designed as a direct, high-performance replacement for the factory hinges. Precision machined and hard black anodized, they deliver maximum resistance to wear and corrosion, even in the toughest off-road conditions. Each hinge carries a laser-engraved MetalCloak “M” logo. Designed for the increased load of an oversized spare tire, these hinges guarantee unmatched rigidity and stability off road while working perfectly with the SportGate Tire Carrier system.
Hinge Bridge – internal hinge reinforcement
The gold zinc plated 3/8 inch hinge bridge is a key structural component of the MetalCloak Heavy Duty SportGate Tire Carrier system. Its job is to reinforce and tie the two billet aluminum hinges together from the inside of the Jeep’s body. The bridge is made from strong steel and protected by a durable gold zinc coating for excellent corrosion resistance. It mounts in the factory hinge mounting holes – no drilling required. By linking the upper and lower hinge, the Hinge Bridge distributes the load of the spare tire evenly across the tailgate and body structure, minimizing stress and preventing damage over the long term. That is extra strength, rigidity and confidence for your SportGate system.
Bronze bushings
The flanged bronze sleeve bushings used in the billet hinges of the MetalCloak SportGate Tire Carrier are designed for maximum durability and smooth operation over many years. Precisely matched to the reinforced hinge design, they provide a low-friction pivot point that resists wear. The flanged construction holds the bushing securely in the hinge housing, eliminating any risk of movement in use, while the self-lubricating bronze material guarantees reliable operation with minimal servicing.
Fully adjustable spare tire mount
Precision laser-cut 3/16″ steel brackets reinforce the tailgate structure and create a mount that can be adjusted up or down, depending on the height of the tire being fitted.
Key features:
3/16″ laser-cut steel construction
Adjustable spare tire mounting plate (height / width)
Integrated mount for the factory reversing camera
Compatible with tires up to 40 inches
Width adjustment for wheels with non-standard backspacing
Maximum load: 130 lbs (approx. 59 kg)
An oversized tire? No problem
The SportGate system includes everything you need to safely mount an oversized spare tire on your Jeep JL Wrangler – while keeping the convenience of easy opening via the factory tailgate handle.
Third brake light mounting options
Factory third brake light bracket
Keep a clean, factory look even with a larger spare tire, thanks to the MetalCloak 3rd Brake Light Mount. The bracket uses your Jeep’s original brake light and moves it onto an adjustable 1/8″ steel component that works with the SportGate Tire Carrier system. The bracket also serves a second purpose – it is an ideal place to mount a CB antenna, a sand flag pole or an additional accessory light.
License plate and third brake light bracket
The relocation bracket kit with third brake light comes with a bright LED serving as the rear brake light plus an additional LED for license plate illumination. It is a simple and effective way to move the plate to the center of the spare tire.
What is in the kit
SportGate tire mount
Adjustable spare tire mount
Billet aluminum hinges
Backspacing adjustment bracket
Reversing camera mount
All required bolts and mounting accessories
MetalCloak SportGate Tire Carrier – reinforced spare tire mounting system for the Jeep JL Wrangler
SportGate is a complete, purpose-designed and patent-pending spare tire carrier system that lets you mount an oversized tire securely and stably on a Jeep JL Wrangler – while keeping the convenience of easy opening via the factory tailgate handle. The construction offers enormous strength, precise manufacturing and full adjustability for large off-road tires.
Key features:
Laser-cut 3/8″ steel hinge bridge plate
Reinforced 6061-T6 billet aluminum hinges with bronze bushings
Oversized hinge pin bolts for increased durability
Adjustable (height and width) spare tire mounting plate
Integrated mount for the factory reversing camera
All bolts and mounting accessories included
Handles tires up to 40″ in diameter
Finished in the signature black powder coat
Maximum load: 130 lbs (approx. 59 kg)
Made in the USA
Maximum strength and adjustability for large tires
The SportGate system is designed to carry greater loads than the factory tailgate. Precision laser-cut 3/16″ steel brackets reinforce the tailgate structure and allow the tire mount to be adjusted vertically, so you can match the height to different tire diameters.
Heavy Duty billet aluminum hinges
SportGate hinges are made from 6061-T6 aluminum – the same alloy used in aviation.
Hard black anodizing protects against corrosion
Precision machining ensures a perfect fit
Each hinge carries a laser-engraved MetalCloak logo
These hinges are a full replacement for the factory items – designed specifically for larger tires and hard off-road use.
Internal reinforcement – 3/8″ Hinge Bridge
The key element of the system is a heavy 3/8″ steel reinforcing bar with a durable gold zinc coating. It links the upper and lower hinge from inside the Jeep, which:
Distributes the load of the spare tire evenly
Significantly reduces stress on the structure
Eliminates the risk of future cracks and play
Requires no drilling – it mounts in the factory mounting points
This is the component that genuinely increases the rigidity and safety of the whole system.
Bronze bushings – durability and smooth hinge movement
The flanged bronze sleeve bushings provide:
Low friction
Wear resistance
No need for frequent lubrication
A stable seat with no movement
These are among the most durable solutions used in professional off-road builds.
Ready for the reversing camera and the Jeep’s factory components
The system has a built-in mount for the factory reversing camera, and the whole construction keeps the rear tailgate vent working exactly as the manufacturer intended.
Important
MetalCloak recommends fitting a wheel and tire with a combined weight not exceeding 130 lbs (approx. 59 kg).
