Corner Armor for Fold Down Tailgate - Jeep Wrangler TJ 96-06 - Aluminum

Product Description Builders who spend time wheeling a Jeep TJ know the factory rear corners take a beating once larger tires, increased suspension travel, and aggressive departure angles enter the equation. The thin factory sheet metal around the rear tub corners is easily damaged on rocks and trail obstacles, especially on vehicles built for serious rock crawling. The Motobilt Aluminum Corner Armor for the Jeep Wrangler TJ was designed to reinforce these vulnerable body sections while maintaining the factory wheel well opening and factory tail light configuration. Unlike factory-style corner armor that includes cutouts for the OEM tailgate hinges, this version uses a solid rear passenger side panel designed specifically for builders running a drop down tailgate setup. The cleaner panel design gives the rear of the Jeep a more finished appearance once the factory swing gate hardware is removed. Constructed from 5052 aluminum, these corners provide rear body protection while helping reduce overall vehicle weight compared to steel armor systems. The armor follows the TJ body lines closely and integrates cleanly into trail-focused builds. Builders using aftermarket tailgate systems often prefer this configuration because it eliminates unnecessary hinge openings and creates a cleaner body profile. Like many Motobilt products, these corners were developed from real fabrication experience and understanding how Jeep builds evolve over time. As suspension systems, tire size, and chassis modifications become more aggressive, protecting and reinforcing the body becomes increasingly important. These corners integrate cleanly into serious off-road builds while supporting a cleaner drop down tailgate layout. Motobilt also offers a matching Drop Down Tailgate separately under part number MB1168. Builders looking to complete the body armor package can pair these corners with Motobilt Fender Flares part numbers MB1088-2 or MB1088-4 for a matching appearance and consistent body protection. Builders wanting maximum durability and impact resistance can also choose the steel version under part number MB1239. Important Information Designed for 1996-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ Constructed from 5052 aluminum Designed specifically for use with drop down tailgate conversions Rear passenger side panel does not include factory tailgate hinge cutouts Maintains factory tail light openings Maintains factory wheel well opening Requires drilling holes into the Jeep tub for installation Compatible with Motobilt Drop Down Tailgate part number MB1168 Compatible with Motobilt Fender Flares part numbers MB1088-2 and MB1088-4 Steel version available under part number MB1239 Made in the USA Product Specifications Vehicle Fitment 1996-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ Material 5052 Aluminum Dimensions 18.5" x 11.5" x 50.25" Weight 24 lbs Tail Light Compatibility Factory Tail Lights Wheel Opening Factory Wheel Well Opening Manufactured Made in the USA Installation Notes Requires drilling holes into the side of the tub for installation. Test fit all components before final installation. Designed for builders using aftermarket drop down tailgate systems. Compatible with Motobilt Drop Down Tailgate part number MB1168. Designed to pair with Motobilt Fender Flares MB1088-2 and MB1088-4. Some fitting may be required depending on previous body modifications or aftermarket armor. Frequently Asked Questions Why does this corner armor not have factory tailgate hinge cutouts? This version is designed for builders using a drop down tailgate setup instead of the factory swing gate. Eliminating the hinge cutouts creates a cleaner appearance on the rear corner panel. Does this include the drop down tailgate? No. The drop down tailgate is sold separately under Motobilt part number MB1168. Will this work with factory Jeep TJ tail lights? Yes. These corners retain the factory TJ tail light openings. Do I need to drill into the Jeep tub to install these? Yes. Installation requires drilling mounting holes into the side of the tub. What Motobilt fender flares match these corners? These corners are designed to pair with Motobilt Fender Flares part numbers MB1088-2 and MB1088-4. Why would a builder choose aluminum corner armor? Aluminum corner armor helps reduce vehicle weight while still providing body protection for trail use and off-road builds.