Invest2m4

I went with an LoD carrier and they offer it in linked or non linked. I went non linked for that reason. The extra three seconds of effort just isn't an issue for me. I do like the linked carriers, but in real world application, it just doesn't work for me.

4x4chick

What will the durability be of the hinge when you drag the passenger side corner down a rock???

takion

Same thing here, also non linked for the same reason.
And by the way, over a year with my gen 3 LoD and the quality is superb.

takion

LoD non linked for the same reasons as above.
Awesome bumper/carrier. Over a year with it and no issues.

PsychoCupcake

That's not actually true. With the Ace bumper and tire carrier, all of the weight is carried by the carrier and absolutely zero weight is on the tailgate. It's only linked by the joint that connects the carrier to the tailgate.

PsychoCupcake

I've had a lot of hard hits to my rear bumper but there's no way you can translate enough force for that little link to affect the tailgate.

Invest2m4

Not referring to the weight. If you back into a tree or hit a high approach climb and drag the tire, what absorbs the impact? It goes into the tailgate.

PsychoCupcake

No it would still be the carrier which would translate into the bumper not the tailgate.

Invest2m4

Maybe ace is different. Most door linked have nothing that stops the carrier from swinging inward other than the tailgate.

LidLess07X

On my 07 I had the linked Expedition One and it was very nice and it was also SILENT.

On my '10 I went a less expensive route with the Rugged Ridge and optional link. After 3 years of trying to silence the RR I finally gave up and removed the tire carrier from the bumper. I installed the TeraFlex tire carrier and use it with the RR bumper. I am now squeak and rattle free and couldn't be happier with my combination.