Numpty Question About Space Saver

[over_the_hill]

I was having a closer look at the space saver spare at the weekend.
Comparing it against the rear wheel it was quite a bit smaller in diameter, so if fitted the car would be lop-sided.

I only ever carry it as a last resort get you out of the mire option, but having seen this now I wouldn't even want to amble a few miles down the road with it fitted.

Has anyone ever used one.

[phillpot]

Last year about fifteen S Series went for a little tour to Italy, on the way back one of us got a puncture, Sunday afternoon in some remote part of France. Can of "tyreweld" did nothing other than dribble out the hole so I think guy concerned had no concerns with using his spacesaver (15" wheel but still larger diameter than spacesaver).
Looked a little odd from behind but driver said it drove ok for twenty miles or so until we happened across a little workshop sort of place where the nice Frenchman plugged the puncture with a diy puncture kit

I'd have no qualms about using one on my S or Chimaera if it got me out of trouble or saved waiting hours for recovery. Just drive slowly and carefully to the nearest help.
I also carry a small 12volt compressor, stopping and pumping up every few miles is another option if tyre is not totally fued



Wonder what it would be like to drive on four of them

Edited by phillpot on Tuesday 31st May 22:40

[markreilly]

Wonder what it would be like to drive on four of them

next time you are in the company of 3 other Chimaeras,draw straws !

[live_the_dream]

I have done three or four trips to France without but decided last year to get a spacesaver as I was driving from Reims to Angouleme (about 350 miles) on a Sunday and returning back to calais (about 400 miles) also on a Sunday. Not a good day in France to rip a tyre with no spare. Always had Sundays as rest days previously.

A friend mentioned getting a standard ford 15" wheel with a thin tyre as a possible but I got a second hand space saver and the tyre was knackered so I fitted a larger profile tyre, you can get a conti for about £35, now it's much closer to the size of the wheels on the car.

For me the peace of mind knowing I could at least get to the next town to find a hotel or garage made the driving days more relaxed and enjoyable.
Then I did meet a 70 year old guy at Reims who had driven down in a supercharged elise. So I took myself to one side and had a word with myself about getting soft. I'm half his age and worrying myself into an early grave over a tyre instead of just enjoying it.

[haircutmike]

I damaged a front wheel at a track day.
With a snug, no problem on with the space saver I tried to fit the spare.
Didn't fit as I have a big brake conversion, doh, worth thinking about!