Spare tire options

[Bird Dog]

I downsized to 31’s from the original 33’s last year that were on the Jeep when I bought it. I didn’t even think about the spare being a 33 as well and even more surprised my tire guy didn’t bring it up. I have hardly ever had a flat but recently picked up screws in both rear tires (not at the same time) but fortunately I noticed the flats while the Jeep was in the driveway. The spare has my attention since it is old and a different size. I am wondering what tires you all are using for a spare? Cheap something from WM or something else? I have checked all the used lots and used 31’s are nonexistent. Thoughts?

 

[LONGJP2]

I have checked all the used lots and used 31’s are nonexistent. Thoughts?

Are you checking for metric equivalents also?
I would think places like Dobbs (if you have those) would have tons laying around.

 

[suicideking]

I usually check Craigslist or Facebook marketplace.

 

[JEEPCJTJ]

My spare Goodyear something MT is almost 1" smaller than my other four Goodyear Duratracs. At least they look pretty similar which was my biggest concern. My son keeps telling me to get the right one so I don't mess up my limited slip rear end. I'm not worried about that. I think I have enough physical ability to put the spare on the front and the good front on the rear if I ever get a flat back there. It's not like I'd be driving hundreds of miles before getting it corrected.

 

[abruzzi]

I always buy 5 new tires, and always do a 5 wheel rotation. I do this on all my vehicles.

 

[Hokahay]

I run all five tires the same. I do a five tire rotate. When the time comes to replace I replace all five.

Five tire rotate wears them all down equally and the tires of course last 20 percent longer
.

 

[Goatman]

I check the local 'small guy' tire shops for most of my implement and wagon tires. Often I find a decent spare tire for vehicles too. Here in NY they have to pay (IIRC $10) for each take-off they have to dispose of. So they are more than happy to have me drive away with them for free. I would think most small independent tire shops anywhere would do the same. Just promise that it is NOT going to be used for highway use (some stupid law) but for your lawnmower or wheelbarrow or something.

 

[TheBoogieman]

The spare tire has to match the other 4. It's in the Jeep Owners handbook.

 

[Mr. Bills]

The spare tire has to match the other 4. It's in the Jeep Owners handbook.

Which is exactly why I use a LT255/85R16 "skinny" spare with my LT315/75R16 ("metric 35") tires and on my CJ-7 I used a BFG 33x9.50R15 "pizza cutter" spare with my 35x12.50R15 tires.

This is what the California Four Wheel Drive Association requires on its list of safety equipment:

• Jack capable of lifting the vehicle & tools to change tire.
• Spare tire within 3 inches diameter of other tires, or, for tires 37" or larger, run-flats or tools to repair/reinflate tire.

 

[Hokahay]

Which is exactly why I use a LT255/85R16 "skinny" spare with my LT315/75R16 ("metric 35") tires and on my CJ-7 I used a BFG 33x9.50R15 "pizza cutter" spare with my 35x12.50R15 tires.

This is what the California Four Wheel Drive Association requires on its list of safety equipment:

My detroit lockers would not be happy with one tire 3 inches smaller in diameter.

 

[Mr. Bills]

I had a Detroit when I was running the 33x9.50 spare. Tire plugs took care of any issues I had during that period, but had I needed the spare on a rear tire I would have simply swapped a front to the rear and put the spare on the front long enough to limp to a tire repair facility.

A good tire plug kit like the Safety Seal or ARB kits and a Colby emergency valve stem renders the "donut" spare the option of last resort.