A strong spare tire mounting plate should match your wheel’s bolt pattern and suit the way you plan to build or adapt the carrier. For fabricators, the Barnes 4WD Spare Tire Mounting Plate stands out with 1/4-inch steel, six listed patterns, and holes designed for welding in bolts from the back. Other plates add details worth considering, including Motobilt’s 1.75-inch center hole and standard stud sizes, while the TeraFlex option is an adapter for a specific Alpha HD setup rather than a general-purpose plate.
The lineup also includes a Jeep JK tailgate replacement plate and a JKS plate with limited fitment detail. Compare the listed patterns and intended use before choosing; similar-looking plates are not automatically interchangeable.
The Barnes 4WD Spare Tire Mounting Plate is the best overall choice for a custom spare tire carrier because it combines 1/4-inch steel with six listed bolt patterns, including 5-, 6-, and 8-lug options. Its 1/2-inch holes also allow a builder to weld in bolts with the required thread pitch from the back. If you need a plate with a specified center opening and stud sizes, the Motobilt Spare Tire Mounting Plate is a strong alternative.
Our Top Picks
Its 1/4-inch steel plate lists six patterns, from 5-lug to 8-lug, and 1/2-inch holes allow bolts to be welded in from the backside.
View on Amazon
Best Stud DetailsThe 1/4-inch steel plate covers several common 5- and 6-lug patterns and specifies a 1.75-inch center hole plus standard stud sizes.
View on Amazon
Broad Pattern RangeEMS Offroad Tire Carrier Plate
Its 1/4-inch steel plate lists six patterns, including 5×4.5, 6×5.5, and two 8-lug options, though further construction details are limited.
View on Amazon- 8-Lug Adapter TeraFlex Alpha HD Adapter Plate
Compare these spare tire mounting plate options
| # | Product | Weight | Dimensions | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Barnes 4WD Mounting PlateBest Overall | 2.94 lb | 9 x 4 x 3 in | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Motobilt Spare Tire PlateBest Stud Details | 2.77 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. EMS Offroad Tire Carrier PlateBroad Pattern Range | 2.5 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 4 |  4. JKS 8211 Spare Tire PlateCompact JKS plate option | — | 9"L x 6"W | View on Amazon |
| 5 |  5. TeraFlex Alpha HD Adapter Plate8-Lug Adapter | 4.22 lb | 7 x 10 x 4 in | View on Amazon |
| 6 |  6. iJDMTOY JK Tailgate PlateWrangler JK tailgate replacement | 2.8 lb | — | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Spare Tire Mounting Plate
#1 · Best Overall
1. Barnes 4WD Mounting Plate
- Weight: 2.94 lb
- Dimensions: 9 x 4 x 3 in
Best for: Multi-pattern carrier builders.
Why it ranks #1: Its 1/4-inch steel plate lists six patterns, from 5-lug to 8-lug, and 1/2-inch holes allow bolts to be welded in from the backside.
Six popular bolt patterns are cut into this 1/4-inch steel plate, letting carrier builders accommodate a wide range of common Jeep, Ford, Chevy, and Toyota wheel hubs. Its 1/2-inch holes also support welding a correctly threaded hex bolt from the back, giving fabricators a straightforward way to establish the mounting hardware they need.
The pattern coverage spans 5×4.5, 5×5, 5×5.5, 6×5.5, 8×6.5, and 8x170mm, so one plate can serve several common vehicle applications. The 1/4-inch steel construction provides a substantial base for a custom carrier, while the 1/2-inch holes let a builder weld in hex bolts with the needed thread pitch from behind. That approach suits a hands-on fabrication workflow, but requires welding and selecting the correct bolt threads.
- Six listed patterns cover common Jeep, Ford, Chevy, and Toyota applications.
- 1/4-inch steel plate provides a substantial carrier-mounting base.
- 1/2-inch holes accept hex bolts welded from the backside.
- Bolt thread pitch can be selected for the builder's application.
- Mounting hardware requires welding hex bolts into the plate from the backside.
Skip it if you need a bolt-on tailgate replacement for a 2007–2017 Wrangler JK; the iJDMTOY plate is specified for that installation.
Choose this Barnes 4WD plate if you are fabricating a spare carrier and need one of its six listed wheel patterns. It suits builders comfortable welding bolts; those wanting a ready-to-bolt-on tailgate plate should look elsewhere.
Full product details
| Brand | Barnes 4WD |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.94 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Barnes 4wd |
| Part Number | B4W250292 |
| Dimensions | 9 x 4 x 3 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: SPARE TIRE MOUNTING PLATE
View on Amazon#2 · Best Stud Details
2. Motobilt Spare Tire Plate
- Weight: 2.77 lb
Best for: Mixed lug-pattern fabricators.
Why it ranks #2: The 1/4-inch steel plate covers several common 5- and 6-lug patterns and specifies a 1.75-inch center hole plus standard stud sizes.
Separate hardware guidance for 5- and 6-lug versus 8-lug wheels makes the Motobilt plate a practical choice for builders working across different hub formats. Its laser-cut, 1/4-inch high-strength steel plate includes popular patterns and a 1.75-inch center hole for carrier fabrication.
The 5- and 6-lug holes use standard 1/2-inch wheel studs or bolts, while the 8-lug holes use standard M14 hardware; that distinction helps builders plan the correct fasteners for each application. Its listed patterns cover common Jeep fitments, older F-150s, early Broncos, and other vehicles. Laser-cut 1/4-inch high-strength steel supplies the plate material, and the 1.75-inch center hole is part of the mounting layout.
- Laser-cut plate is made from 1/4-inch high-strength steel.
- 5- and 6-lug patterns use standard 1/2-inch studs or bolts.
- 8-lug patterns use standard M14 wheel studs or bolts.
- Includes a 1.75-inch center hole and several popular patterns.
- The 8-lug holes use M14 hardware, unlike the 1/2-inch hardware specified for 5- and 6-lug holes.
Skip it if you want a single stated 1/2-inch hardware size across lug counts; the Barnes 4WD plate specifies 1/2-inch holes for its listed patterns.
Pick the Motobilt plate if your fabrication project needs its listed Jeep and other vehicle patterns, plus a center hole. Account for its different hardware specifications: 8-lug wheels call for M14 studs or bolts, while 5- and 6-lug use 1/2-inch hardware.
Full product details
| Brand | Generic |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.77 pounds |
| Item model number | MTB-MB2093 |
| Manufacturer | Motobilt |
| Part Number | MTB-MB2093 |
| Model | Builder Part |
| Package Dimensions | 8.31 x 7.99 x 1.3 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Motobilt Spare Tire Mounting Plate
View on Amazon#3 · Broad Pattern Range
3. EMS Offroad Tire Carrier Plate
- Weight: 2.5 lb
Best for: Broad-pattern steel plate.
Why it ranks #3: Its 1/4-inch steel plate lists six patterns, including 5×4.5, 6×5.5, and two 8-lug options, though further construction details are limited.
Six listed bolt patterns, including 8x170mm and 8×6.5, make this 1/4-inch steel tire plate useful when a carrier build must cover varied common wheel hubs. EMS Offroad presents it as a plate for tire-carrier kits or as an individual part, giving builders a focused component for their mounting setup.
The plate covers 5×4.5, 5×5, 5×5.5, 6×5.5, 8×6.5, and 8x170mm bolt circles, helping buyers match several common wheel configurations without sourcing a differently patterned plate. Its 1/4-inch steel construction offers a substantial base for a carrier assembly. EMS Offroad also identifies individual parts as available alongside its kits, which can suit a builder who needs this specific component rather than a complete kit.
- Six listed patterns include both 8x170mm and 8×6.5.
- Includes 5×4.5, 5×5, 5×5.5, and 6×5.5 patterns.
- 1/4-inch steel construction provides a sturdy carrier plate.
- Listed as an individual part as well as a kit component.
- The supplied details do not specify hole diameter or a bolt-welding method.
Skip it if you need stated 1/2-inch holes for welding in threaded hex bolts; the Barnes 4WD Spare Tire Mounting Plate specifies that workflow.
This EMS Offroad plate fits builders seeking a 1/4-inch steel component with six common bolt patterns, particularly when assembling a carrier from individual parts. Its listing does not detail hole diameter or fastening method, so those specifics matter for your build.
Full product details
| Brand | EMS Offroad |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | EMS Offroad |
| Part Number | TC-PLATE |
Listed on Amazon as: Tire Carrier Plate
View on Amazon#4
4. JKS 8211 Spare Tire Plate
- Dimensions: 9"L x 6"W
Best for: Compact JKS plate option.
Why it ranks #4: This is identified as a spare tire plate mount and measures 9 by 6 inches, but the listing provides no bolt-pattern or construction details.
A stated 9-by-6-inch plate footprint gives the JKS 8211 a defined size for buyers evaluating a spare tire mounting component. JKS lists it as compatible with a car, but the supplied product details provide little additional information about its mounting pattern or construction, making it best suited to shoppers whose application is already established.
The 9-inch by 6-inch product dimensions offer a concrete footprint to compare with a planned carrier layout, while the JKS 8211 model identification helps distinguish this plate within the JKS range. Its listed vehicle compatibility is simply “Car,” so the supplied details do not establish a specific wheel bolt pattern or hardware method. Buyers should treat those omissions as important planning limits rather than assume it matches a particular hub or fabrication approach.
- Product dimensions are specified as 9 inches by 6 inches.
- Identified as the JKS 8211 spare tire plate mount.
- Listed vehicle compatibility is car.
- Product weight is specified as 1.089 kilograms in package details.
- The supplied product details do not identify a bolt pattern or plate material.
Skip it if you need a stated multi-pattern plate and hardware guidance; the Motobilt plate lists its patterns and stud or bolt sizes.
Consider the JKS 8211 only when its 9-by-6-inch footprint and general car compatibility fit your planning needs. The supplied details do not specify its bolt pattern or material, so it is a poor match for buyers requiring those facts upfront.
Full product details
| Brand | JKS International |
|---|---|
| Color | black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 9"L x 6"W |
| Manufacturer | JKS |
| Part Number | JKS8211 |
| Model Number | 8211 |
| Dimensions | 9"L x 6"W |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including styrene which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: JKS 8211 Spare Tire Plate Mount
View on Amazon#5 · 8-Lug Adapter
5. TeraFlex Alpha HD Adapter Plate
- Weight: 4.22 lb
- Dimensions: 7 x 10 x 4 in
Best for: JL Alpha HD 8-lug conversion.
Why it ranks #5: It adapts a 5×5-inch pattern to 8×6.5 inches and accommodates up to a 40-inch tire, but works only with specified Alpha HD components.
Converting a 5×5.5-inch Alpha HD mount to an 8×6.5-inch pattern is the specific job this TeraFlex adapter addresses. It accommodates tires up to 40 inches and is intended to work with the TeraFlex 4838910 Alpha HD adjustable spare tire mount, rather than serving as a universal plate.
The adapter changes the Alpha HD adjustable spare mount from a 5.5-inch lug pattern to an 8×6.5-inch pattern, enabling the intended wheel-pattern conversion within that TeraFlex system. TeraFlex specifies compatibility with model 4838910 and lists support for tires up to 40 inches. The adapter is one part of the setup: the description also identifies the Alpha HD hinged carrier and adjustable mount as separate system components, so buyers should account for the required pairing.
- Converts the stated 5×5.5-inch pattern to 8×6.5 inches.
- Specified to work with TeraFlex 4838910.
- Accommodates a tire up to 40 inches.
- Purpose-specific adapter for the Alpha HD spare-mount system.
- It works only with the specified TeraFlex 4838910 mount, not as a universal plate.
Skip it if you need a multi-pattern standalone plate for a custom carrier; the Motobilt plate lists several wheel patterns and standard hardware details.
This is the targeted choice for an Alpha HD system owner converting to an 8×6.5-inch wheel pattern, including setups with tires up to 40 inches. It is not a general-purpose plate and depends on the specified TeraFlex mount.
Full product details
| Brand | TeraFlex |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 4.22 pounds |
| Item model number | 4838930 |
| Manufacturer | TeraFlex |
| Part Number | 4838930 |
| Model | TeraFlex 4838930 Alpha HD 8-Lug Spare Tire Mount Adapter Plate Kit 5×5" To 8×6.5" |
| Dimensions | 7 x 10 x 4 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: TeraFlex 4838930 Alpha HD 8-Lug Spare Tire Mount Adapter Plate Kit 5×5" To 8×6.5"
View on Amazon#6
6. iJDMTOY JK Tailgate Plate
- Weight: 2.8 lb
Best for: Wrangler JK tailgate replacement.
Why it ranks #6: Its 3mm steel plate is a bolt-on replacement for 2007–2017 Wrangler JK models, not a multi-pattern plate for building a custom carrier.
A bolt-on tailgate installation for 2007–2017 Jeep Wrangler JK and JK Unlimited models lets this iJDMTOY plate replace the spare-tire mounting plate without major modification. Its mounting role also relocates the tire and rim, third brake light, and backup camera, addressing several tailgate-mounted components together.
The plate is specified for 2007–2017 Wrangler JK and JK Unlimited vehicles, keeping its fitment focused on that generation rather than universal carrier projects. Its bolt-on installation is intended for the rear tailgate spare-tire area and requires no major modification, simplifying the stated replacement workflow. The 3mm powder-coated solid steel construction is presented as more durable than aluminum alternatives, while the relocation function includes the tire and rim, third brake light, and backup camera.
- Fits 2007–2017 Jeep Wrangler JK and JK Unlimited.
- Bolt-on installation at the rear tailgate spare-tire area.
- Relocates the tire and rim, third brake light, and backup camera.
- Made from 3mm powder-coated solid steel.
- Fitment is limited to the listed 2007–2017 Wrangler JK and JK Unlimited models.
Skip it if you are fabricating a universal multi-pattern carrier plate; the Barnes 4WD plate lists six common wheel bolt patterns.
Choose this plate for a 2007–2017 Wrangler JK or JK Unlimited tailgate replacement where relocating the tire, brake light, and backup camera is the goal. Its stated fitment is narrow, so it is not a general-purpose carrier plate.
Full product details
| Brand | iJDMTOY |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
| Item Weight | 2.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | iJDMTOY Auto Accessories |
| Part Number | AA3530 |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | Bolt-on Install Mounting Plate |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: iJDMTOY Tailgate Spare Tire Carrier Plate for Jeep 2007-2017 Wrangler JK
View on AmazonAvoiding Bolt-Pattern and Adapter Mismatches
A matching bolt pattern alone does not prove that a plate will fit your carrier or wheel hardware. The Barnes 4WD Mounting Plate lists six patterns and says its 1/2-inch holes make it possible to weld in bolts with the proper thread pitch from the back; that welding detail makes bolt choice part of the build, not an assumed fit. The Motobilt Spare Tire Plate separately specifies standard 1/2-inch wheel studs or bolts for 5- and 6-lug holes, M14 studs for 8-lug holes, and a 1.75-inch center opening.
Check all three points—lug pattern, fastener size, and center clearance—against your setup. The TeraFlex Alpha HD Adapter Plate is a different case: it changes a 5×5-inch arrangement to 8×6.5 inches, but is listed for use with specified Alpha HD components.
Do not treat that conversion plate as a universal mounting plate.
Custom Fabrication Versus Tailgate Replacement
A plate for fabricating a carrier and a replacement tailgate plate solve different problems, even when both are described as spare tire plates. The Barnes 4WD Mounting Plate and EMS Offroad Tire Carrier Plate list multiple bolt patterns and are aimed at carrier builds; Barnes additionally describes welding bolts into its holes. By contrast, the iJDMTOY JK Tailgate Plate is a bolt-on plate for the rear tailgate spare tire area on 2007–2017 Wrangler JK and JK Unlimited models.
Its listed purpose includes relocating the tire or rim, third brake light, and backup camera, with no major modification stated. Its 3mm steel construction does not make it a substitute for the multi-pattern fabrication plates.
Before ordering, establish whether you are replacing a vehicle-specific tailgate plate, adapting an existing carrier, or making a carrier from scratch; the product descriptions support different uses.
How to Choose a Spare Tire Mounting Plate
Bolt Pattern Coverage
Start by matching the plate’s listed lug pattern to the wheel you intend to carry. The Barnes 4WD Mounting Plate and EMS Offroad Tire Carrier Plate each list six patterns, including 5×4.5, 5×5, 5×5.5, 6×5.5, 8×6.5, and 8x170mm. The Motobilt Spare Tire Plate lists several 5- and 6-lug patterns but does not list the two 8-lug patterns found on those plates.
The TeraFlex Alpha HD Adapter Plate is narrower still: it converts 5×5 inches to 8×6.5 inches for its specified setup. Buyers building for varied wheels should favor broad pattern coverage; buyers converting a known Alpha HD configuration should focus on the adapter.
Plate Construction and Fastening
Look for construction and fastening details that match your carrier-building method. The Barnes 4WD Mounting Plate and Motobilt Spare Tire Plate are both listed as 1/4-inch steel; Barnes describes 1/2-inch holes for welding bolts from the back, while Motobilt specifies standard 1/2-inch hardware for 5- and 6-lug holes and M14 studs for 8-lug holes. EMS Offroad Tire Carrier Plate also lists 1/4-inch steel, but its supplied details do not describe a bolt-welding method or stud sizes.
The iJDMTOY JK Tailgate Plate instead uses 3mm powder-coated steel and a bolt-on installation. Builders who need to choose and weld fasteners will find Barnes’s detail useful; JK owners seeking a stated bolt-on replacement should consider the iJDMTOY plate.
Application and Fitment Scope
Choose by the plate’s stated application, not just its name. The Barnes 4WD Mounting Plate, Motobilt Spare Tire Plate, and EMS Offroad Tire Carrier Plate list multiple vehicle-related bolt patterns for carrier projects. The TeraFlex Alpha HD Adapter Plate is expressly tied to specified Alpha HD components and a 5×5-to-8×6.5 conversion.
The iJDMTOY JK Tailgate Plate is for 2007–2017 Wrangler JK and JK Unlimited vehicles, while the JKS 8211 Spare Tire Plate does not provide a bolt-pattern or vehicle-fitment detail in the supplied listing. A custom builder should favor a multi-pattern plate with compatible hardware details; an owner replacing a specific JK tailgate plate should prioritize the stated vehicle range and installation type.
Which Spare Tire Mounting Plate Should You Choose?
For a custom carrier with broad wheel-pattern needs, choose the Barnes 4WD Mounting Plate: it lists six patterns, uses 1/4-inch steel, and describes welding bolts into its 1/2-inch holes. Choose the Motobilt Spare Tire Plate if its listed 5- or 6-lug pattern fits and you want the additional 1.75-inch center-hole and stud-size details. The EMS Offroad Tire Carrier Plate also offers six listed patterns in 1/4-inch steel, but gives less fastening detail.
For an Alpha HD conversion from 5×5 to 8×6.5 inches, use the TeraFlex Alpha HD Adapter Plate only with the specified components. The iJDMTOY JK Tailgate Plate suits its stated Wrangler JK tailgate replacement use.
The JKS 8211 Spare Tire Plate is difficult to match confidently because its listing omits fitment details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I confirm a plate’s bolt pattern matches my wheel?
Compare the wheel’s lug count and bolt-circle measurement with the patterns listed for the plate; both must match. The Barnes and EMS plates list six patterns, while the Motobilt plate lists 5- or 6-lug patterns. If the listing omits fitment details, do not assume compatibility.
What should I check before welding a plate into a custom carrier?
Confirm the plate’s listed wheel patterns match your wheel, then check its material and fastening details against your carrier design. The Barnes plate uses 1/4-inch steel and 1/2-inch holes that allow a builder to weld in bolts with the required thread pitch from the back. Verify your intended setup before welding.
Will a tailgate replacement plate fit my Jeep and existing carrier?
Check the vehicle and use stated in the listing before ordering. The iJDMTOY plate is described for a 2007–2017 Wrangler JK tailgate replacement. That description alone does not establish compatibility with every existing carrier, so confirm the plate’s fit with your carrier and Jeep configuration.
What details does the Motobilt plate specify?
The Motobilt plate lists 5- or 6-lug patterns, a 1.75-inch center hole, and stud-size details. Compare its listed pattern and dimensions with your wheel and carrier requirements. Choose it when those details suit your setup; the available information does not provide the actual stud-size values.
When is the TeraFlex adapter plate appropriate?
The TeraFlex Alpha HD adapter is intended for a 5×5-to-8×6.5-inch conversion, but the verdict specifies using it only with the specified components. Confirm that your setup matches those requirements before choosing it; the conversion description by itself does not establish fit with other carriers or components.
Final Words
For a custom carrier, the Barnes plate is the clearest overall choice: it lists six patterns, uses 1/4-inch steel, and describes a bolt-welding option. Consider Motobilt if its listed pattern and center-hole and stud details match your setup. The EMS plate also lists six patterns but provides less fastening detail.
Reserve the TeraFlex adapter and iJDMTOY tailgate plate for their stated uses, and seek fitment details before choosing JKS.