Alright so I was brainstorming on some unique ideas and I kept thinking a rear tire carrier. Has anyone ever thought about trying to make there hatch open sideways like a wranglers? Instead of opening towards the top but have it hinge on the passenger side and swing out with the tire mounted to the hatch itself. If anyone has ever seen it done please tell me d show me if you have pics Cause I want to see it haha

 

I was reading a similar posting the other day. I believe the consensus is that the edges will be an issue since it's a close right fit in the back of the xj. Maybe a hinge that comes out then folds over?

I personally like the idea of a tire mounted on the hatch and simply throw in a couple more struts to support the liftgate open. Keep the xj as it's own details and let the wranglers have theirs.