Forum Discussion

Explorer

May 22, 2020

Should I carry a spare tire?

Scene: On our first cross country tour with our 28 Ft. Class A Gas Motorhome, 50 miles outside Winslow, AZ on a hot Desert afternoon. All of a sudden, the TPMS (tire pressure monitor system) sounds off, rapid loss of pressure in the passenger rear inside tire. I immediately pull off and call for Emergency Roadside assistance. They ask for the tire size, Goodyear G670 RV 245/70R19.5. They said $600 and they have to order it, could be a week or two to get the tire.

So that’s my nightmare. I want to carry spare tire/wheel or just the tire.

Has anyone had this happen to them? Is it a common occurrence?
Are most of the flat tires a tread puncture that can be plugged and be run on for 500 miles?
Can most roadside service plug the tire.

I priced a spare tire system: Tire: $400; Wheel: $200; Roadmaster 195225 Spare Tire Carrier for Motorhomes $595; Hi/Lo Hitch $95; Lug Nuts, 1 Locking.
Grand Total: $1300.

Does anyone have a cheaper solution?

Does anyone carry just a tire? How do you carry it on the Motorhome?

Thanks, Al

25 Replies

pauldub
Explorer
May 22, 2020
Another think to consider is whether or not you'll have cellular service when you need a tire changed. It's an easier decision with a Class C and much lighter tires.
Bobbo
Explorer III
May 22, 2020
I never go more than 10 miles from home without a spare tire for the vehicle and any trailer. Back a couple of decades ago, I was driving from Memphis to Atlanta to deposit a daughter at Georgia Tech, with my 6' utility trailer loaded down. Before leaving Memphis, I went to a local tire store and bought a used rim and tire for a trailer spare. I didn't have to use it, but it is still attached to the front of the trailer. (But with another tire, as I feel 20 years old is too old for a spare.)

As long as you have it, roadside assistance can mount it and get you back on the road.
time2roll
Nomad
May 22, 2020
Can you change it yourself? OK since you are calling service anyway just have them bring a tire and pop it on the existing wheel.
K_Charles
Explorer
May 22, 2020
Roadside assistance will put your tire on your rim but it might cost you a couple bucks.
I do not carry a spare, 22.5 tires are big and heavy.
LadyRVer
Explorer II
May 22, 2020
Having been in a somewhat similar situation, I would at least carry the tire if you have the space to put it. Road service can always mount it for you. I got taken really bad for a tire, like almost 2 times the price, when I had a problem. Won't be without one again.