18” Rim Need Help

Peeps I need some help I’m looking to replace my 17” spare rim/tire with an 18” rim to match my 18” factory rims that are on the inexpensive being it will be living under the bed for its life. Taking a trip up north and I don’t want to go with the 17” rim. I already have an 18” tire.

 

The spare included with the truck, while temporary, is the same overall diameter as the regular 18" wheels. If you're replacing it because your concerned about it being a 17" wheel, there is no need. Of course, if the desire it have spare that is not a temporary tire, that's a different story.

 

That makes good sense. But might it be situationally dependent? For example, I tow a camper and feel safest when I have a spare wheel and tire that are the same as the wheels on the truck. Am I worrying too much?

 

As I mentioned previously, if the objective is to not have a "temp" spare, then replacing the spare wheel and tire might be prudent. If you're towing into remote areas or on rough roads, where you know it might be some time or distance before the flat tire can be fixed or replaced, then your use case might call for a more permanent spare setup.

 

When it comes to spare tires, I can't recommend enough having a tire repair kit and portable compressor on hand. I have had to deal with flat tires more times than I can recall, but can't recall ever having to resort to the spare in my own vehicles (although I have had to use spares on rentals/other peoples' vehicles). Of course there's always the possibility of sidewall damage or a blowout, but they're rare in my experience. I'd say in most cases you can quickly plug a tire, air it back up and not even need to use the spare. Plus, having the compressor with you allows you to air down, if needed.

This is what I have in all three of my vehicles. They've saved me more times than I can remember.

$49 ARB 10000011 Speedy Seal 2 - Universal Heavy Duty Tire Repair Kit For Car, Truck, RV, Jeep, ATV, Motorcycle, Tractor, Trailer. Flat Tire Puncture Repair Kit Fix Punctures and Plug Flats 50 String Plug

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075CR4J3W

$83 VIAIR 88P - 00088 Tire Inflator Portable On/Offroad Air Compressor for Car, Truck, SUV & RV | 12V Heavy Duty Pump 120 PSI, Alligator Clip, Twist Chuck

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005ASY23I

That being said, cheap steel rims that match the specs of your factory wheels can be had for less than $100. Since you already have a spare 18" tire, it shouldn't cost you too much. Just google "steel rims", and you'll find plenty of options. Now, a CHEAP rim that's IDENTICAL to your other four factory rims may be a bit of a pipe dream depending on what your idea of cheap is.

Also, before you decide to roll with the factory spare, I would verify the outer diameter of the tire. I'm pretty sure most 4th Gens come with smaller "donut" spares, not full sized. That is, the outer diameter of the spare tire is smaller than the ones at the corners on most trim levels if I'm not mistaken.

 

I bought a steel wheel off eBay. It is the exact wheel on the 17” spare. It was $120. Might be able to find it cheaper elsewhere.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/195315994747
I bought the same wheel.