Spare Tire Question

So what is everyone doing about their spare tire when they upgrade their rims and tires?

Do you pay the $$$ to buy a fifth rim and fifth tire? As someone driving for 35 years and never had to use a spare, I hope there is a cheaper alternative while still having a spare for an emergency.

 

I run an equivalent size in a skinny tire on the factory spare wheel.

 

So, I could use my 16" stock rim with the same diameter tire (265/75R16) as my new tires (265/70R17). Hopefully I can maybe even find a used tire for my spare that is in good condition.

 

I found an extra rim and on here (TW Expressed from Maryland to Poughkeepsie, you guys rock!) and bought the fifth matching tire for a 5 tire rotation, seems to be working out and my set of tires will last longer.

 

You got it.

 

IMO, the best approach is tailored to how you use the vehicle - not all of us have the same needs when it comes to a spare. If you spend 95% of the time on-road, commuting, in populated areas then a blowout really isn't a big inconvenience or cost. You could have a pretty sketchy spare - the original that came with the truck perhaps - and it'd probably be fine to get you to the closest tire shop.

But, if you're taking your truck off-road frequently, especially on longer trips, where you may be out in remote areas without cell phone reception or any form of assistance then a robust spare is a much more important thing. In that case you'd want a tire that is at minimum the same diameter as your regular tires and similarly capable of whatever terrain you may need it in.

I carry a full size, matching wheel and tire because I find myself in more remote areas sometimes and realize that $200-500 of upfront cost for a matching spare is well worth the peace of mind and MUCH cheaper than getting a service call or tow out in the middle of nowhere.