Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

[rivercitybird]

I haven't had a flat in years, and I have roadside assistance insurance in case I do, so I'm thinking of just taking the spare tire out to increase trunk space. Of course, if I do, I'll have a flat the next day, you know how that goes, but it's an option I'm considering.

Do any of you do this?

[Gobird]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

I know I don't. Wouldn't drive anywhere without it. There are ways to pack for a long trip. We have done road trips that lasted 2 weeks. Others have done 30 day trips over the US. All you need are good duffel bags and fill every little open spot in the trunk.

[5bird7]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

I've heard one or two have done that. You're taking a chance either way with the 02 spare.

Since yours is an 02, you really need to replace that 10 year old Firestone spare if it hasn't been done. Its quality, especially since it's past its age date, is not good and may not hold up under even emergency use. Replacements if you're going to get one are only available thru MAXXIS on their website. Do a search here on "spare tire" and find the thread with the most replies for more info.

[Kokomo]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

If you flip the spare upside down and remount it into the well, you can put a lot of small stuff in the well with it for storage or packing for a longer trip. That way, the spare is still available if you need it.

[Sealy]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

Another thing to consider - on a lot of cars the spare is figured into how the car "crumples" in a collision. Taking it out can make it unsafer if you are rear ended.

[5bird7]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

and don't lose the black spindle cap in the process.

[rivercitybird]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

Great suggestions, thanks for the input. I like the idea especially of flipping it upside down. I would never have thought of that and will check to see if we need to replace the spare

[2K2BIRD]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

I promise you that if it is original you need to replace the spare if you want to count on it when you need it. Ours blew up spontaneously in the trunk. Hate to think what it would have been like if driving on it.

[steelblue5505]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

Even if you have road side assistance insurance you have to be able to call them.

There are still many areas in the US where cell phone coverage is weak or not at all. Do not think that your cell will always operate.

[rivercitybird]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

Ok guys, you've convinced me that was a bad idea. I'm just going to buy a luggage rack for when we travel, much smarter.

[sauernote]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

If you actually have to use the compact spare tire, what do you do with the full size, flat tire with the expensive wheel? What if you're on a trip with a full trunk load of stuff? I guess just throw your stuff out on the side of the road like the pioneers did when they needed to lighten the load? Just wondering.

[JAB02LHS]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

If you actually have to use the compact spare tire, what do you do with the full size, flat tire with the expensive wheel? What if you're on a trip with a full trunk load of stuff? I guess just throw your stuff out on the side of the road like the pioneers did when they needed to lighten the load? Just wondering.

Flat Tire Storage

[mtnski]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

Ok guys, you've convinced me that was a bad idea. I'm just going to buy a luggage rack for when we travel, much smarter.

Good Idea. My tire totally split apart. Roadside Assistance would not have helped. I have a new spare, it is upside down for extra space and I have got a luggage rack.

[errixon]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

Jan, As Spence pointed out there are ways to pack that save lots of space....we use space bags. We did a 30 day Rt 66 trip last year and a 3 week golf trip with two sets of clubs this way. The only down side is the need for a travel iron.....Bill/Brenda

[Amsterdam]

Re: Does anybody remove spare tire for more trunk space?

Dot mentioning the need for replacing a 10 year old spare tyre: what about my four 8 year old original tyres on my 2004 PCR (driven only 11.000 miles), need replacement as well?
If so: what tyre-type/-brand is most recommended?
Thx
Hans

(note: not all tyres available in Europe, remembering Frits mentioning that his original tyres drove better)