Spare Vs No Spare

Since I recently sold my stock tires and wheels. I don't have a spare at the moment. But now I've been thinking if I should buy a full size or customize the tailgate.

I know and understand the issues with a full size spare. I'm currently running 33". And I know one tire and wheel weight 65 lbs. And thanks to another thread, I would upgrade to a HD hinge. And relocate the 3rd light.

Now, here's where I'd like some advice. I'm considering going spareless. I've seen some rigs running with a vent cover and license plate relocation kits. But, I'd probably leave my plate stock and just install the vent cover. I've seen some Jeeps where they painted the cover to match the body. And I really liked them. Only issue I have with going this route. Theres also 3 plugs involved for the spare bumps and 3rd light wire. Afraid it will look like crap.

Bottom line. Any one running with a vent cover and 3rd light relocation? Which route did you go? Could you share a pic please. I'd really like your thoughts and ideas. I like the fact I'm running 65 lbs lighter in the rear, especially if I upgrade to a steel rear bumper at some point.

 

Ummm if we ever Rausch Creek a spare is mandatory....however I heard a Jersey u know riding shotgun might get you a pass

 

You still up?? Lol.
Hahaha. Nice dude.

But wait. The guy I sold my OE tires to. Runs RC 2 - 3 times a year. And he told me they don't check. As long as you have another rig wheeling with you. They don't check. Talkin he told me once he pushed in 10 plugs in a side wall and REALLY crawled out. And no one even stopped him. He'said been wheeling there for a couple years now. The things we talked about. He knew his shit, long arms, track bars, etc. As soon as he saw my jeep. He just about crawled under it. Wanted to see exactly what I was running. Said I was ready for RC.

So.......now it's up to you. Lol.

Ps. He was definitely a Jeeper. I saw him stuff 5 tires and wheels in Honda Civic, with 2 baby seats and a stroller. Lol. Blew my mind. Lol. He-so a jeeper.

A plug kit and compressor. And we're good to go.

 

My CJ tires way about 100 lbs and close to the same on my JKU. On my CJ when I'm climbing a steep ledge I felt very unstable with my tire acting as a cantaleaver on the back so I. Took off the spare and I feel much more stabile. The effects of the spare on the JKU are not as pronounced because of the length. I still don't run a spare. Even though my rigs are street legal I always tow them to the trails in case of carnage. I bring the spare in back of my truck.

 

“Better to have, and not need, than to need, and not have.”

 

Hey stop yelling at me. Lol.

Yeah, the more I think about it. I really should be running with a spare. Another $480 I don't have. Lol. I think what I'm going to do is get a vent cover for the time being. Got to get rid of that ugly tire carrier and periscope 3rd light.

Although I gotta tell ya. I have a speed bump on my street. And the first time I hit it without my undersized spare. I could feel the difference. That 55 lbs makes a big difference. And i know the tires and wheels im running now are 65 lbs. And As Peter mentioned. He feels much more stable without it. But, he still brings one.

So I see a full spare in my future. Thanks guys.

 

The 2 times I could have used a spare, someone else had an aircompressor and 10gal tank. 1st was an air leak on the beadlock. Just added air once on the trail and reset the lock ring on the beadlock when I got home. The second, I slipped an inner bead and managed to reset the bead and air back up (was nervous on that one). I would rather have an air compressor and patch kit than carry the 100lb cantalever on the back. For the worst non-repairable tire destruction I do have a spare close by. I always wheel with a buddy (a second jeep not a passenger).

 

Thanks OFFGRID. You just solidified the fact I should run with a spare...AND, should carry a puncture kit. I do have a cheap air compressor. But as I posted in another thread. I'd love to add an onboard. Just don't have the funds at this time.

Man....you guys just keep costing me money I don't have. I really Ummm. ......i hate you guys. lol.

 

Ahh Chris. It's a great discount. I wish I had the funds right now. As I stated. May never need it. But would love to have one.

Thank you for the heads up. Need a spare right now. Lol. Wish I could pick up both.

 

Sometimes all it takes is that one time....

 

So much weight!!!

 

Harbor freight has a 5 or11 gal portable air tank with hose each under $50. The 5 gal will air up 1-2 tires depending on size. You fill the tank up with your compressor at home then disconnect and take it with you.

 

I sold my spare as part of the deal. So that's off the table.
Thanks Peter. I'm going to look into Harbor Freight. Would like to have a portable tank.
But my plan is to get a full size spare. Thought more guys ran without them and customized the tailate. And thatso why I asked. Thanks guys.

 

Based on what they call these things it might be up your alley. Should be an ez upgrade on your rear.

 

I fricking knew it. I got an alert, Saw it was you. And I KNEW it was a Trap Stamp vent cover. I KNEW it. Dude....i got you figured out I love it. It's all good. You a David Letterman fan??

I knew if anyone would post Poison Spiders Tramp Stamp covers. I knew it would be you. . But still LMAO. Ya got me again. I should know better.

I am considering them for the time being. I need something to take the place and cover up what my spare did. It looks like crap right now. And a Tramp Stamp just might work. Lol. Thanks aggrex. I knew I could count on you for an idea......outside the box. . Lol

 

Finally after months of bustin my ass in the gym. I got my butt back. I decided a tramp stamp wasn't my style. But thank you aggrex for the suggestion.
And that's on the stock carrier. Didn't need an adapter. Also, notice anything else? The periscope 3rd brake light is gone. I cut it off and put in a Hyline 3rd light relocation kit. They call it a kit, but only consists of a light, plug in wire, which you have to cut off one end, and a rubber grommet.
I was going to post this as a DIY post. But I didn't take pics. I drilled out the center of the plastic cap. And you install the rubber grommet, and push in the light. A perfect fit. Spliced the wires and good to go. $17.99 for the kit. I like it.

Best part. I got my butt back. Lol