Complete tailgate reinforcement solution for the 1997–2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ. Laser-cut and welded steel construction with heavy-duty hinges included. No drilling required.
The Jeep Wrangler TJ was never engineered to carry heavy spare tires on its tailgate for the long haul. Over time — and especially with oversized aftermarket tires — the factory tailgate and hinge system develops weak points that lead to sagging, rattling, cracked welds, and eventual failure. The MORryde JP54-022 Tailgate Reinforcement Kit with Hinges is the complete solution, engineered to address every weak point in the TJ tailgate system in a single kit.
Built from laser-cut and welded plate steel with a durable black powder coat finish, the JP54-022 reinforces the tailgate body and hinge mounting areas where loads are transferred during movement. Unlike swing-away spare tire carriers that add significant weight and complexity, MORryde's system keeps your Jeep's iconic look intact while dramatically increasing structural integrity. The kit includes MORryde's heavy-duty tailgate hinges and is compatible with both factory and most aftermarket bumpers — meaning there's no need to replace your existing spare tire carrier.
Seamless laser-cut plate steel construction eliminates the potential weak points and failure modes of the factory setup
Complete kit includes MORryde's heavy-duty tailgate hinges — no need to source them separately
Reinforces without replacing — your factory spare tire carrier stays in place and your TJ retains its original profile
Bolts directly to factory mounting locations on the Wrangler TJ — no modification or cutting needed for installation
The JP54-022 is engineered exclusively for the 1997–2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ. It is not compatible with any other Wrangler generation. Check your model year carefully: Compatible: 1997–2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ (all trims) Not Compatible: YJ (1987–1995), JK (2007–2018), JL (2018–present), or Gladiator JT If you own a JK, see the MORryde JP54-016 Tailgate Reinforcement. If you own a JL, see the MORryde JL Tailgate Reinforcement. Need hinges only for your TJ? See the alternate option JP5-056 (reinforcement without hinges).
The JP54-022 is MORryde's complete tailgate solution for the TJ — hinges and reinforcement in one box. A related option is also available: • JP54-022 (This Kit) — Tailgate Reinforcement + Heavy-Duty Hinges • JP5-056 — Tailgate Reinforcement Only (without hinges), for TJ owners who already have upgraded hinges Both options are compatible with factory and most aftermarket bumpers, and neither requires replacing the factory spare tire carrier.
Installation Steps: 1. Support the Tailgate: Use a stand or have an assistant support the tailgate before removing factory hinges 2. Remove Factory Hinges: Unbolt and remove the OEM tailgate hinges from both the tailgate and body 3. Position Reinforcement Frame: Align the laser-cut reinforcement plate to the factory mounting locations on the tailgate and body 4. Install Included Hinges: Mount the heavy-duty hinges through the reinforcement frame at factory hinge locations 5. Secure All Hardware: Torque all fasteners to spec per the included installation instructions 6. Check Tailgate Operation: Open and close the tailgate to verify smooth, rattle-free movement and proper alignment No drilling or cutting required. Full hardware and installation instructions included in kit.
In The Box: • Tailgate Reinforcement Frame (Laser-Cut Plate Steel) • Heavy-Duty Tailgate Hinges (Set) • Mounting Hardware • Installation Instructions NOT Included / NOT Required: • Spare tire carrier replacement (factory unit is retained) • Bumper replacement (compatible with factory & aftermarket) Optional Separate Purchase: • JP5-056 — Reinforcement without hinges (for owners with existing upgraded hinges)
MORryde Technical Support: Phone: (574) 293-1581 Email: [email protected] Made in Elkhart, Indiana, USA MORryde is an ISO 9001 certified manufacturer of Jeep, RV, and specialty vehicle products.
The JP54-022 addresses every structural weakness in the TJ's factory tailgate system without requiring a swing-away carrier or bumper replacement — preserving your Wrangler's original look while delivering the strength needed for heavy spare tires and serious off-road use.