Should I Replace My Spare Tire?

I think I'm about to pull the trigger on a new set of tires and rims for my 2011 DC Sport (Timberline Mica). I've got my eye on these:

http://www.discounttiredirect.com/d...2011&pc=46403&counter=1&wd=17&rw=9&vid=019279

along with a set of Nitto Terra Grappler AT's.

My question is: Do most people replace their spare with the new tire and rim (so that it matches) when they get new a set-up? Or, do most just use the stock spare? My new size will be 265 70 17.

Thanks for any input.

 

I asked the tire guy about this and he said the factory spare is ok to use for short distances, kind of like the donut spares some cars use.

 

it's ok to use for short distances, but make sure you put it on the front and keep the 4x4 off. If you have a flat in the rear, move one back from the front, and put the spare on the front.

 

Sounds like I should replace my spare as well. Thanks.

 

If I were you, I'd just get a matching rim and replace the spare also. No need to worry about immediately repairing/replacing a flat tire down the road (since the tire sizes and rim styles will be the same).

When I got my 265/75/16 Duratracs I got a full set of 5 and got a matching TRD Off Road rim. To make this set of tires last longer, I'm planning on doing a 5 tire instead of 4 tire rotation.

 

X2. I had these blk wheels on my truck . I filled the blk paint on little polish to make total blk wheels and they look good with 265/70/17 handkook ATM.
http://www.discounttiredirect.com/d...11&pc=61028&counter=1&wd=17&rw=8.5&vid=019279

 

x2
FWIW I have Terra Gripper AT's

 

I'll be replacing my spare with a full size matching one once its time to buy tires again. I'm getting a in bed tire carrier though from N-Fab

 

I would just get a used tire in that size or get the cheapest new one you can find, regardless of brand. As long as it gets you from point A to point B if you ever have a flat, I see no reason to go all out with a matching one.

 

I was looking at the same tire set up (265/75/16 Duratracs) & was curious if you had any problems with the spare fitting in the well on that size tire?
Thanks.

 

From the reviews I've read, the TreadWright retread tires are just as good as new ones. At the very least, I would run one as a spare. I'm actually considering a full set of the Wardens (BFG A/T clone).

http://www.treadwright.com/c-21-265-70r17.aspx

 

I have been running treadwright tires on my Ram 2500 for 3 years now with no problems. 46,000 miles and still holding up great. Since they have been holding up on my heavy ass Ram hauling more loads of firewood, stone, and scrap than I can count, and also lasted through 3 trips from Pa. to Tenn. I will also be putting a set on my Tacoma with a matching spare!

 

Nope, no problems. It fit fine...just barely though.

 

This is a nice set up and a great way to go if you have the extra cash, and since you are only one tire size up from the stock tire size, your new spare will fit into the standard carrier. But my question is to the OP, did they change the spare tire type on the 011's? If not, you will only be one size down from your new tires with the stock spare? This is far from a temp. donut spare found on many vehicles. The spare might not be the same traction level as the new tires you put on, but at one size smaller you probably will not even feel the difference running down the road. My stock spare is rated for 50,000 miles (Dunlops), and whatever came with your truck stock should be simular. If it were me, I would use the brand new stock spare until it ages past safety, then I would look for a good used spare or buy a new tire to match the set you are running for your spare in the future.
By the way, even if you get a flat and have the same size tire/rim for a spare, you still need to get the tire fixed asap regardless unless you like running without a spare at all!

 

That's what a differential is for. Do you never go around corners either?

 

X2, but if you are patient you can probably find one that matches. I was able to find a almost new matching BFG AT in my size off craigslist for $80.

 

You dont want two different size tires on any axle that has power to it. It will damage your vehicle, especially the differential.

 

Bingo.

Fink

 

different sizes will ruin the diff.

 

Then why aren't you harming it every time you turn? The different radii act no differently than having different tire sizes.
I realize turns are just now and then instead of full-time, but still would stress the diff, no?

I'm not trying to be a dick, I believe you about different tires sizes being bad... just trying to understand the logic here since the diff was invented to allow the wheels to turn at different speeds.