I would also check the rubber valve stem (not the valve) by pushing on the
sides on the stem in several directions.  For me it was a cause of several
flats - including my spare.

BT

On Mon, Sep 13, 2010 at 6:48 PM, Michael A. Radtke <wa7zpu@cisaz.com> wrote:

> Hello,
>
> I was filling and checking my tires today and I was surprised to find
> the spare flat.
>
> My spare is at least 10 years old, and is in excellent shape since it
> has been off the road and out of the UV all this time.  It became a
> spare as a lightly used tire and I've never needed it.  When I did a
> quick check for what could be leaking, I found that the bead to steel
> rim seal was leaking in a lot of spots.
>
> So, what caused this problem?  All the leaks are on the side that was
> up.  My first thought was rust, but I live in Phoenix and we get little
> rain.  Besides, the rim doesn't look rusty.  Do other Vanagon owners see
> the same problem with old spares?
>
> How do I fix the tire?  I am uncomfortable with just remounting it if I
> don't know what the cause was.  I could put a radial tube in it.  This
> is a spare.  I just need it to work in an emergency for a relatively
> short distance.
>
> Information and advice please?
>
> Thanks,
> Mike   '84 GL since new --- Phoenix, AZ
>