That's understandable with everyone starting to hold onto their money tighter, but it's the strongest solution short of buying an even more expensive bumper combo. I do have to say, using the trailer hitch would be an awesome solution. I'm pretty sure that I'll do that one myself if I can't go the Detours USA route.

 

dont get me wrong if i had the money i do it : )

 

I stumbled across an article just now checking out a website that someone had posted about and I was just checking out. It's MadXJ. There is an article about putting a factory rear carrier off an older XJ onto a newer one. Please take note of the fact that they have this highlighted in red, "Warning: Do not carry any big and/or heavy tire with this style tire carrier!
After mounting a 33" tire, the carrier broke off! Luckily this happened in the driveway and not at 65mph on the interstate!"

 

Too true. That's why I was sure to mention that the largest I have carried on mine was a 31" AT. They are much lighter than mud tires, but even then I was nervous. There are ways to beef up this one to carry a 31 with peace of mind.