Spare tire

[Lainey]

My 'new' spare tire is not so new and the sidewall on one side is cracked, so I am in the market to do a fast replacement on this if we want to get out again this season with the trailer.

I could go to the wrecker and get a used wheel and tire assembly
buy a new cheapy to put on the existing rim,
buy a new cheapy already on the rim (ie: Can. Tire)
or go with a 'real' tire and rotate with the others once in a while (I guess this would mean having to match exactly what is already on there, or buying three new tires all the same if that can't be done?)

It seems like finding the right balance between safety, price, tire longevity, and ability for usage are all factors. Just wondering what people's thoughts are on this. I know it's been discussed before, but did anyone draw any conclusions?

[Roger H]

Lainey, I'd just replace the tire using the stock rim (presuming it's not bent or otherwise damaged) with the proper size ST rated trailer tire. Used tires are no better than the one you're taking off, and buying a new wheel is a waste of money unless yours is damaged in some way. IMHO, there is no "balancing" safety when buying tires. Spend the money and get the best tires you can buy. And then, if your trailer is stored outside, replace them every five years whether or not they look like they need it.

Roger