Using the 14" tire for a spare is a good idea if you have a 2WD.   A
syncro requires all 4 tires to be the same size.  For this reason, if
you get a 16" spare, remember to rotate your tires occassionally
(inluding spare) so that they get even wear.

Gregor

On Tue, May 26, 2009 at 4:18 PM, Troy <colorworks@gci.net> wrote:
> I guess that's a good point Mike. Here in Alaska, many times it can be quite
> a few miles before you run into a service station that can change tires,
> hundreds in most cases, so would like to have a full-size spare, but you're
> absolutely right, the 14 inch would do in a pinch. I already have an extra
> 16 inch rim too, so thought I would utilize it. The 14 inch does necessitate
> an extra set of bolts, but not a major deal. My spare happens to be a
> brand-new RA08, so it's certainly a nice quality tire.
>
> Troy
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Mike S" <mikes@flatsurface.com>
> To: <colorworks@gci.net>
> Cc: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2009 1:52 PM
> Subject: Re: Spare tire storage
>
>
>> At 04:37 PM 5/26/2009, Troy wrote...
>>>
>>> Now that I have upgraded to 16 inch wheels, I am moving my attention to
>>> storage of the spare. I did see that Van Cafe' sell a $90 bracket,
>>
>> What's wrong with your existing spare? Much better than the "compact"
>> spares many modern cars come with.
>