Why Can't I Use an Undersize Spare?
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Why Can't I Use an Undersize Spare?
After getting a flat tire (265/75/15s) up in the mountains a couple hours ago, I put on my spare - a 235/75/15. Its slightly undersized, but I've got an open rear end and I thought I could get it down the mountain and into the nearest Les Schwab (tire store) 30 miles away.
I immediately noticed that the spare was dragging and chirping. My rear end was sliding all over the place because of the smaller tire. I had to put the flat tire back on (pumped back up to a 20lbs, but deflating) to limp it in town. Got to Les Schwab 15 minutes after closing - but they changed it without a hassle and won't even take a tip!
Why can't I run an undersize spare? It's a open carrier 8.8" diff.
I immediately noticed that the spare was dragging and chirping. My rear end was sliding all over the place because of the smaller tire. I had to put the flat tire back on (pumped back up to a 20lbs, but deflating) to limp it in town. Got to Les Schwab 15 minutes after closing - but they changed it without a hassle and won't even take a tip!
Why can't I run an undersize spare? It's a open carrier 8.8" diff.
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Why Can't I Use an Undersize Spare?
Those tires arent that different in size . How much air was in the spare ? If it was low on air regardless of size you are going to have handling problems . Since spares are used infrequently they are often overlooked as far as their air pressures are concerned . Ive used my spare twice in 10 yrs and although its smaller its always got me home , just handles differently because of the smaller diameter size .
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Why Can't I Use an Undersize Spare?
The spare wasn't at full pressure, about 25lbs. I should have filled it when I check the tire pressures before my trip. However, the full sized flat tire had MUCH less pressure, but I didn't experience the chirping/dragging that the spare did.
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From: Craig
Why Can't I Use an Undersize Spare?
The tires are not that much different in size. I have seen people limping their vehicle with 35's down the raod with a 33" spare. If your diff is open truely open (not locked or limited) than you shouldn't have noticed much of a problem. I may have pulled a bit in the direction of the smaller tire. But not a lot.
Hope this helps.
Hope this helps.
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Why Can't I Use an Undersize Spare?
That's got to be it! I forgot that my ABS light was on until I switched my tires back.
Anyone else with ABS and an undersize spare - watch out!
Thanks for figuring this one out, I was stumped.
Anyone else with ABS and an undersize spare - watch out!
Thanks for figuring this one out, I was stumped.
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