Richard, I do five tire rotations, every 5,000 miles.  Now, that means maybe every 8-9 months, so I check the pressure on the tires myself monthly and before any trek of more than around town.  But thanks for your advice, and I'm glad you didn't have a need for that spare in some out of the way location.

mcneely

---- Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET> wrote: 
> I'm getting ready for a roadtrip in a few weeks.  Wanted to check tire pressures and top off if required (GoWesty 16" tire & wheel package, 3 years old now).  Everything looking good at the recommended 44 psi, maybe a pound low in pressure, except for right rear.....15 lbs.....nail right in the middle of tread, easy to fix.  Got under to remove spare to check it....0 lbs....and it wouldn't accept air.  Off to local Discount Tire.  They fixed the RR but said the spare was too old (which it is).  So bought a brand new Hancook RA08 (14" original steel Vanagon rim) for $152 after all the fees and stuff.  I really think that in 8-10 years I'll be replacing that brand new spare again, just the way it goes for the "insurance".  
> 
> Very embarrassed to admit I hadn't checked the spare in 3 years or so; guess the age and the high heat right behind the radiator took its toll.  Will now check at every 5000 mile tire rotation.
> 
> Got lucky in my mind; you really need 5 good tires at all times (I knew that...).  Go check yours please while it's easy to do so.
> 
> Rich
> San Diego

--
David McNeely