[geezerb]

Hello again;
While bumming around under my 96 Aerostar, I happened to contemplate my spare doughnut tire hanging there. Being that the car jack and the lug wrench have never been used, it is highly likely that that thing has been there since day one.
Is there some word on when those things should be discarded? I have read that most road tires have between 5 and 7 years but they are exposed the elements a whole lot more. From different entries on these forums, I believe that a regular sized tire and rim will fit into the carrier if it is substituted. Any tire guys out there?
Bill Hodges

[Skyhawk]

The tire industry standard life expectancy is 6 years for the rubber compound.

[geezerb]

So, I guess it's safe to assume that using that thing would be taking my chances. I'll have to get a regular tire and rim.

[opsuper3]

A donut spare is supposed to be driven at 45, max. It isn't intended for long distances. As long as it holds air and isn't dry rotted, it is better than walking. A 'legalese' friend mentioned that if old donut spares were the cause of major accidents, the Manufacturers would most definitely have a replacement schedule listed in the owners manual and/or an expiration date on the spare.