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Topic: Space Saver spare tyres-ok to tow?

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daveyjp

07/5/2019 at 1:01pm
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I'd only ever use one to get me to the garage for a repair/replacement.

You also need to check the handbook about correct fitment.

Some must only be fitted to the rear axle - put one on the front and driving the car becomes extremely hazardous, especially under braking - a concern if towing.

If you get a flat on the front you have to remove the front wheel and a rear wheel, fit the skinny to rear and fit full size rear tyre to front. With only one jack on board this can take a while!

Post last edited on 07/05/2019 13:55:06

Post last edited on 07/05/2019 13:55:44

George-Mildred

07/5/2019 at 1:51pm
Location: Staffordshire
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Quote: Originally posted by woodman2 on 06/5/2019

Quote: Originally posted by George-Mildred on 06/5/2019
Why don't you try and get hold of a full size spare and like I said before keep it in the caravan then it's there if you are towing and under normal day to day you've got your spacesaver already in the car.

How much does a full size wheel and tyre weigh?

That must eat into your payload by some significant amount.

The OP asked for opinions, and in this case, this is what we'd do, they would need to distribute weight between caravan and car themselves to satisfy themselves - or look to get a car that has a proper spare with it.

Pickled Onion

07/5/2019 at 6:44pm
Location: Near Alton Towers
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I had a spacesaver and decided to buy a second hand wheel & tyre from Preloved. Didn’t regret it when towing to campsite in France and got a puncture on a rear tyre, straight swap so no messing. Got original repaired and swapped it again as alloys didn’t quite match.

The only problem I had was that the well wasn't as deep and the cover didn’t fit down flat. I overcame this by fixing a 2inch batten all round.

Dave.

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Teach a man to fish and you can get rid of him for a whole weekend.

saxo1

07/5/2019 at 7:16pm
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The AA advice is:
If you’re towing a caravan or trailer and get a puncture, then it's usually OK to fit a space-saver spare to any axle on the car.

Check the handbook though as there might be vehicle-specific advice.
saxo1

SamP

07/5/2019 at 11:27pm
Location: S Wales The Badland
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The handbook for my 2017 Sportage includes the following statement.

"Do not tow a trailer whilst the temporary compact tyre is installed." (Page 7-24)

As I understand it, if you ignore this condition laid down by the manufacturer you will violate
"The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations" which is an offence.

It also violates the conditions of your insurance.

Having said that, I have absolutely no idea how likely it is that this would come to light unless you had an accident whilst towing with a space saver.

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SamP

Monty15

08/5/2019 at 5:32pm
Location: London
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Quote: Originally posted by bazlam on 05/5/2019
That's put the cat amongst my pigeons!

Sorry to be so 'forthright' bazlam.

Spent a long time not so long ago trying to find a suitable new car with full size spare wheel, fruitless task and had to concede defeat and settle for skinny spare as better option than 'goo' inflation kit, which firstly doesn't help with sidewall or large holes, and secondly means writing off an otherwise repairable tyre as most tyre depots won't clean the gunk out to do repair! At least skinny spare keeps you mobile even if suitability and towing legality are under suspicion!

saxo1

08/5/2019 at 7:09pm
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I recently read an article that tested skinny tires and the newer 80 mph rated tires actually outperformed the standard part worn tires that were fitted to the test vehicle, in handling in the wet and control.
I think a lot of people worry about not having a full size tire if they have a puncture,I have been driving for 62 years and I have rarely had a puncture,I cant remember when I last had one!
saxo1

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