This must have changed on later models since my 3rd gen jack is flat on the top. No groove.

 

air the big tires down enough and keep the other inflated and it might be close...

 

It doesn't matter if your spare is smaller. On road your diffs are open which allows the smaller tire to spin faster (many cars are factory equiped with smaller donut style spares). Off-road even with a locked diff it's not a problem. The smaller tire will be forced free as it can't keep up with the larger tires. This happens with or without a locker in 4WD when you turn even when all your tires are the same size. It's a normal part of off-roading.

 

hate to get off the topic but... does a 285/75/16 tire fit in the spare location under 3rd gens? anyone done this?

 

fully inflated: nope. apparently it can be stuffed under there fully deflated, but unless youve got onboard air or run with guys that do...its not a viable option.

 

well i guess that rear bumper with tire carrier is looking more like a necessity everyday..

 

my spare is usually in my trunk when i go wheeling. havent had to fill the trunk on any trips yet...so ill have to figure something else out when that happens. around town, it stays in the garage. a custom rear bumper may be able to get more room under there...

 

It will fit without the hitch.

 

Welp. That sucks!