How to Install Jeep Wrangler Mopar Tailgate Reinforcement in 11 Easy Steps
Updated: Aug 28
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TL;DR / Quick Summary
Protect Your Tailgate: Upgrading to larger tires (up to 37") or adding accessories like a tailgate table adds significant stress and weight that can damage factory tailgate welds over time.
OEM Fit & Strength: The cast-aluminum Mopar Tailgate Reinforcement bolts directly over the factory JL hinges to distribute trail vibrations and heavy loads without requiring major modifications.
Straightforward DIY Install: The upgrade requires simple garage tools, smart alignment prep (shims, tape, and pencil marks), and can be completed step-by-step in your driveway.
Full Video Guide Included: Follow along with the visual walkthrough on the Muddy Ruttzz YouTube channel for extra tips on breaking loose painted hinge bolts and dialing in final fitment.
What You Will Learn In This Post
Upgrading to larger, heavier off-road tires is one of the best modifications you can make for trail performance, but carrying that extra weight on a factory tailgate can lead to sagging, broken welds, and alignment issues over time. In this guide, you will learn why adding the Mopar Tailgate Reinforcement system is essential for protecting your Jeep Wrangler JL—especially if you run up to 37-inch tires or carry interior trail gear like a tailgate table.
We will walk through the entire installation process step by step, covering essential preparation techniques that keep your tailgate perfectly aligned. You will discover practical trade tips for safely removing paint-covered factory Torx hinge bolts, using temporary shims and tape to prevent hinge drop, and properly securing the cast-aluminum reinforcement bracket over your stock hinges.
Finally, this post breaks down how to reinstall and adjust your factory spare tire carrier and third brake light to clear larger rubber. Whether you are building an overlander or simply want peace of mind on rough trails, you will get a clear roadmap to complete this upgrade cleanly and confidently.
Installing Bigger Tires? Install The Jeep Wrangler Tailgate Reinforcement
So, you just got your new Jeep? One of the first things most folks do is swap out those stock tires for some beefier ones. It's a classic move! But once you’ve got those larger tires on, you’ll want to think about the second mod: installing a tailgate reinforcement. Trust me, it’s a smart move if you’re planning to carry that heavier spare tire around.
Now, don’t get me wrong, the stock tailgates are pretty tough, but adding that reinforcement? It’s like turning your Jeep into a tank! It’s a simple mod that really boosts your Jeep’s durability. Plus, it just makes sense if you want to hit the trails without worrying about your tailgate. Happy modding!
Bump Stops On The Tailgate Stop Your Spare From Bouncing Around: Heres The Best Install
Made In USA Engineered By Mopar | High Quality Cast Aluminum
I installed the Mopar Tailgate Reinforcement on my 2020 Wrangler Willys Ecodiesel. When I upgraded my tires from OEM to the 33 inch Toyo Open Country M/Ts is was time to strengthen that tailgate. Especially true because I have the Mopar Tailgate Table on the inside. See the Jeep build in my blog post Jeep Purpose Built for Overlanding & Daily Driving.
Nicely Made Part - Easy Install
The tailgate is strengthened by attaching the Mopar Tailgate Reinforcement Main Body on top of the current Wrangler Hinge. This component is compatible with the Wrangler JL, with part number 8221 5356 AB-001. The kit includes hardware and instructions for installation, as well as new rubber bumper stabilizers, which I found unnecessary.
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Non-Standard Install On My Jeep: I Had Previous Tailgate Mod
These photos are a condensed version of the install. I will leave a step by step quick reference detailed list near the bottom of the post. You can also refer to my Youtube Video How To Install Jeep Wrangler Mopar Tailgate Reinforcment in 11 Easy Steps.
I Had Installed A Rough Country Spare Tire Relocation Bracket
My installation was slightly different because I previously had to relocate my spare. That allowed me to open the tailgate when my Xventure XV-3 was hooked up. I removed that part and set it aside. I would not need it anymore.
Tire Carrier And Spare Relocation Bracket Removed
I was surprised to find a ton of debris behind the Rough Country Spare Tire Relocation Bracket and the Spare Tire Mount. With those items removed and out of the way I could get down to the business of installing the Mopar Reinforcement.
5 Steps Required To Install Mopar Tailgate Reinforcement
Below are my 5 steps with photos and directions that should make the install easy for anyone.
Lines For Checking Alignment Wood Shims and Tape
Phase 1 - Match Marking For Alignment: Shims And Tape Hold Tailgate in Place
Part of the install is loosening the hinge bolts on the tailgate. We want to get it back to factory alignment and a couple pencil marks will help us remember exact position. To stop it from falling we use some wood shims to hold it up and painters tape to hold the shims in place.
Phase 2 - Removing Bolts From The Tailgate Hinges
Tailgate Bolts have a heavy layer of paint over them. I had to use a rubber mallet to drive my Torx Bit into the bolts so I did not strip them out. Then I used a ratchet to break them loose. After that I was able to use the impact motor.
Phase 3 - Bolting The Reinforcement Bracket In Place
Pretty simple procedure. Tailgate reinforcement simply bolts over the existing hinge and onto the tailgate. I had some concerns that the actual hinges are not reinforced. Not to worry they are engineered to hold up to a 37 inch tire. Hinges are rated by tire size not weight. I used the lines I had drawn to verify tailgate was properly aligned to prevent issues opening and closing it. Then I tightened the bolts and torqued them.
Phase 4 - Reinstall The Spare Tire Carrier | Adjust 3rd Brake Light If Needed
The Tire Carrier gets reinstalled. If you have a larger tire like I did you may have to move the 3rd brake light up. It has adjustment holes in it for doing just that..
Phase 5 - Reinstall The Spare Tire! Congratulations Your Tailgate Is Reinforced
Now you can confidently open and close your tailgate without worrying that the weight of the tire will break the welds and sag your tailgate. I thinks it's a good upgrade for the Wrangler.
Comprehensive List Of Steps Involved In This Install
Remove Spare Tire
Remove Tire Carrier (tie out of the way)
Mark Tailgate Position With Pencil
Add Shims and Blue Painters Tape To Hold Tailgate In Position
Remove 4 Bolts From Tailgate Hinge
Install Reinforcement Main Body Over Hinge
Re-Install Tire Carrier
Check Tailgate Alignment With Pencil Marks
Torque Bolts In Tailgate
Install Rubber Bumper Stabilizers
Put Your Spare Back On
Conclusion: Off-Road Travel With Heavy Spare Requires Tailgate Reinforcement
It's not only when you are opening and closing the tailgate that the Mopar Tailgate Reinforcment is at work. When the tailgate is closed and your hammering trails it is subject to stresses. Reinforcment increases th longevity of the tailgate helping you get years of hassle free use. Its a no-brainer. If you added one of those cool tailgate tables it helps holding that up too.
Muddy Ruttzz is a digital creator, overlander, and DIY enthusiast who documents rugged outdoor adventures and the gear that makes them possible through the Muddy Ruttzz brand. With a multi-decade background in industrial sheet metal fabrication, heavy infrastructure construction, and mechanical problem-solving, he brings a straightforward, hands-on trade perspective to technical builds, vehicle modifications, and digital workflow optimization.
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