I just got into lifted trucks, and I’ve always used stock-sized tires, just with a more rugged tread, so the spare was never an issue. But now I’ve gone to 35s, and I’m wondering… do I need to change the spare? What happens if I don’t?
I haven’t noticed spares in the beds of lifted trucks much. Do you all just toss a 35 on the spare? Or do you just hope for the best? Not even talking about off-roading here… just day-to-day driving.
It’s usually not a huge problem. Think of it like putting a donut on your car—it’s temporary. Unless you’re driving something like a Subaru where all four tires have to match perfectly, you’ll be okay for short distances.
@ruth
So you think running a 32-inch spare with the other three at 35 would be fine? I don’t know if this is a dumb question, but it seems like it might be an issue.
Dai said:
@ruth
So you think running a 32-inch spare with the other three at 35 would be fine? I don’t know if this is a dumb question, but it seems like it might be an issue.
It’ll get you home. I’ve read that if you cut off the tab holding the stock spare, you can fit a 35 under there.
You can fit a 35 under the bed with a small bracket adjustment. Or you can throw it in the bed with a mount.
Whether you need a full-size spare depends on where you’re driving. If you’re far from help, then yes, always have one and a patch kit. If you’re close to shops, you might be okay without it, but you should carry an air pump, a patch kit, and a solid jack either way.
I managed to fit a 35 under my 2023. But I also keep a patch kit and a compressor, just in case.
I use a spare that’s the same size and tread as my main tires. I worry more about getting a flat off-road where I need traction and 4WD to get back safely. I also carry a patch kit for smaller issues.
I just swapped out my tires from 265/70/16 to 265/75/16 and decided to replace the spare too—it was old and cracking. You don’t want mismatched tires, especially on the drive wheels. For the front without 4WD, you could probably get away with it in an emergency, but it’s better to upgrade the spare if you plan to keep the bigger tires.
If the flat is in the front, move one of the 35s from the back to the front and put the smaller spare on the back to get home. Always keep a plug kit and compressor with you—that’s my plan too.
I went with 35s but still have the stock spare for now. I’ve only driven close to home, though. I plan to find a used 35 to throw on the spare rim. If you cut a few tabs under the truck, a 35 will barely fit. Just remember, if you use a mismatched spare, it’s best to put it on the back, even if the flat is on the front. I also carry a patch kit.
I always keep a spare the same size as my main tires. You should be able to fit a 35 under your truck with some adjustments.
Even the factory 3-inch TRD Lifted trucks with the 20-inch TRD wheels come with an 18-inch spare and jack setup.
If you don’t have a matching spare, at least keep a plug kit and compressor with you. I went with the cheapest tire that matched the diameter and threw it on the spare rim. If you use a smaller spare, put it on the front and keep the same size tires on the back. I wouldn’t want to drive with different-sized rear tires.
Get a full-size spare and mount it in the bed. You can’t run different-sized tires in 4WD, and if you tow anything, the tires need to match.