240 DL 1990 Temporary tire

240Dad · Post by **240Dad** » 22 Nov 2009, 14:23

I have asked many questions about my daughters 1993 240 but I have bought another. It has a temp tire that is shredded but it is on what looks like a regular wheel. There is a yellow piece of tape on the wheel alerting that it is a temp and the tire has a maximum speed and says for temporary use only. So, the wheel looks like my others. Should I trust it to go ahead and put a regular tire on it?
Thanks

Post by **billofdurham** » 22 Nov 2009, 15:25

In the UK cars are now coming out with either no spare wheel or a space saver spare wheel which is very narrow compared to the normal wheels. I have never heard of a temporary tyre on a wheel that is normal size. Perhaps that is a US thing.

If the wheel is the same as the others then there is no reason why you shouldn't fit a proper tyre. On one of our space savers a normal size tyre just wouldn't fit.

Bill.

240Dad · Post by **240Dad** » 22 Nov 2009, 15:37

Thanks, Bill,
On further review it is indeed more narrow. In fact it is a 4.5 x 15. So, not only is it more narrow, it is taller.
Bill

lummert · Post by **lummert** » 22 Nov 2009, 20:41

My 88 Volvo 760 turbo Wagon has a temporary tire on a narrow wheel. Size is 155R15. That is the same size that was used on the old VW Beetle. It may still be available in that size. Not a 155/80R15 but a 155/82R15. That is the aspect ratio is 82% not 80%.

Post by **billofdurham** » 23 Nov 2009, 12:57

Those space saver wheels are potential death traps if the rules aren't strictly adhered to.

1. The thinner wheel has less grip and, as a result, can only be used at much reduced speeds, usually up to 50mph, and as a temporary measure to get home safely. The manufacturers, and tyre experts, say that the punctured wheel should be repaired immediately and the space saver taken off. In one incident a young mother was killed when her space saver blew out the day after the full sized wheel was punctured. My son's neighbour has been running on his for three months now and says he will get the puncture repaired when he has time. We hope he does have time!!!

2. The vehicle cannot carry a full load with a space saver.

3. The space saver could affect the ABS, traction control (where fitted) and the steering.

4. They are not safe at speed, especially on the front wheel. My advice would be, if you have to replace a front tyre, stick a rear tyre on the front and put the space saver on the back.

I have read reports of people being stopped for speeding with a space saver on. One was doing 107mph. He was not charged with speeding but he was convicted for dangerous driving.

As a parting shot I wouldn't let my daughter drive a car with a space saver. My grandchildren are too precious.

Bill.

james123 · Post by **james123** » 24 Nov 2009, 03:46

If the wheel is the same as the others then there is no reason why you shouldn't fit a proper tyre. On one of our space savers a normal size tyre just wouldn't fit.ac compressor

Post by **billofdurham** » 24 Nov 2009, 11:36

james123, welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

The wheel isn't the same. It is narrower and taller.

Bill.