Does a steel rear bumper create more space for a larger diameter spare tire?

I'm currently running the KO2 34/10.5R17 tires (basically a strong 33") and I'm curious to know if I could get one to fit up in the spare tire location.

I plan on going to a steel bumper with a hidden hitch mount. Would something like that create more space for a larger diameter spare??

Thanks.

 

I'll answer my own question. Yes. Since getting a rear Pelfreybilt bumper (with hidden hitch) I can somewhat easily fit a 255/80R17 down there now. It's still pretty close to the pumpkin, so I'm not sure how I could fit any bigger. But a skinny 33 is good for a spare.

 

I have the same 34" tire mounted at the stock location with the stock bumper and hitch. A little bit of hammering on the tabs and relocating the hoist a bit towards the rear so that the tire rests against the stock trailer hitch. I also relocated a few of the exhaust hangers to keep it off the tire. It sits close to the rear diff, but I haven't seen any signs of contact.