I need HELP!!!: Different-sized tires

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Different-sized tires

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Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: I need HELP!!!
Forum Discription: Perplexed/need help with a problem - ask here
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=12244
Printed Date: 11 May 2025 at 12:21am
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Topic: Different-sized tires

Posted By: poston
Subject: Different-sized tires
Date Posted: 25 Sep 2018 at 2:24am

Just wondering whether it would be a problem using a smaller/bigger diameter tire as a spare?

I bought some 15" tires from Kris B, but only bought two rims. Didn't think about the spare. I could get a cheapo 15" rim for the spare.

But what if I used one of my 14's as a spare to drive on in an emergency until I could get the flat 15" repaired? The 15's are about 2.8" taller.

All my vehicles are 4WD or AWD, so I can't do that on my cars, but what about on the trailer where both hubs are independent?

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Jim
Virginia City, Nevada
2016 R-pod 180
2015 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X

Replies:

Posted By: mcarter
Date Posted: 25 Sep 2018 at 8:26am

Small diameter spares are the norm in the auto industry, you could travel a short distance with 2 different diameter tires on a trailer. I wouldn't recommend it for the full trip.

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Mike Carter
2015 178
" I had the right to remain silent, I just didn't have the ability."

Posted By: GlueGuy
Date Posted: 25 Sep 2018 at 8:46am

I think for emergency use, you would probably be OK. If there was a differential involved, it would be a most definite no-no. Be aware that the different sizes will be rotating at significantly different RPMs, and that there would be a slight list to starboard (or port) with the trailer. Like Mike says, it would not be for an actual trip.

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bp
2017 R-Pod 179 Hood River
2015 Ford F150 SuperCrew 4WD 3.5L Ecoboost

Posted By: poston
Date Posted: 26 Sep 2018 at 8:55pm

Originally posted by GlueGuy

there would be a slight list to starboard (or port) with the trailer.

Thanks gents! Your advice seems totally solid, maybe because that's what I was thinking too!

And I calculated the slope to the side of the shorter tire at about 1.5%, which is less than the typical crown on a paved road.

I think I'll carry my smaller spare until I find a good deal on a larger rim. And I hope I don't have to test my rationalizing.

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Jim
Virginia City, Nevada
2016 R-pod 180
2015 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X