over40driv

Just wanted to share my progress in coming up with a lightweight spare tire/wheel. I purchased an extremely nice aluminum wheel from a 99 Toyota Solara 16'' for $30.00. A lot of places priced that wheel at $100.00 to$125.00. I looked around and only took me 3 weeks to find. As we know the fact. spare is a full sized steel wheel with a full sized tire. Quite heavy. At first I was going to buy a new tire for around $80.00, but found a perf. good used 205-60-16 tire for $25.00 mounted and balanced. I wheel post the final numbers next thurs. Also I test fitted the Toy. wheel for brake caliper clearance and center hub fitment.

over40driv

Just realized that I had my scales. The fact. spare is 47 lbs. I will weigh the al. spare Sat.Not to mention reaching down in the trunk and pulling that spare out is a back breaker.

SC30096

why go through all that trouble why not just have no spare tire at all. Just purchase a inflate and seal can, 400g's in weight. Keep that in the trunk and your good to go. I think thats much safer then having to change a flat on a busy road. after your up and running take the tire to be quickly fixed. I do however replace my spare when i travel long distances.

over40driv

On paper it sounds like a good idea to me. Ive had a lot of problems inflating tires with inflate cans, unless theres a new and much improved type in the last 5 years.

SC30096

haha holy 5 years! yes there has been definite improvement..I think anything given 5 years would see drastic improvments

uras300

iTrader: (2)

I did exactly that. You will feel the difference a moment you start moving.

habitat

This depends on the setup, these inflate-a-cans state on the directions that it can not be used with Z rated tires.

shern

iTrader: (6)

I have a Supra TT spare in my trunk. Definitely lighter than the full size spare and has the BBK clearance I need.

It will be dumped soon as I move to a brand new set of wheels and tires though. At that point, I will heavily rely on my AAA Gold membership!

over40driv

The weight of the 205-55-16 and Solara wheel is 35lbs. a 12lbs savings for $55.00. I am going to try to find a 195-55-16 that will be lighter because of less width, but retain correct height.

Bryan858

iTrader: (1)

Inflate a cans don't work when you blow a tire.. ahahaha, Never tried to inflate it with one but I can picture the goo all over the place.. ahahah...

over40driv

I like the ability to change a bad tire out quickly, but want the lightest wheel/tire back there until the time comes.

CyBorG

I've always wanted to signup for AAA, but the wait times are horrendous. I can change the tire in less than 1/4 the time and be on my way to [work, classes].

over40driv

And besides that, if you dont have a spare, why have to get towed.