Outback spare tire concerns

LeChap

Greetings all,  New to the forum and first time posting on any media actually.  Been visiting here since the late summer of 2015 when I bought my Outback.  You guys are a wealth of information and very helpful, thanks.  I am moving my Outback spare tire off the back 'rack' to the front and observed it had a number of 'marks' on the tire.  Has any one else had this issue?  Should I replace the tire?  I'll post a pic'. Hopefully I'll get the right 'pixel' size correct for the team.  thanks for your input.  

  

db_cooper

As a spare, I don't think I'd worry about it.  Probably cosmetic.  I'm curious if that's from heat or under inflation?  

I have the same tires and will be replacing after 6 years regardless of mileage. I imagine the spare will be mostly unused when the time comes.

Nomad

Are those marks from the Yakima rack?

ericnliz

Agree with db_cooper, cosmetic from where it was mounted on the Outback frame. Looks like from the cross member bars where they came in contact with the tire. Make sure 'ya check the air pressure though!

Sharon_is_SAM

Are those marks on both sides, or just the side against the rack?

LeChap

Yes, is from the Yakima rack.  Yes is only on the side which was against the rack. not on the other side.  Assume it was rubbed off or over tightened, but unsure.  wanted to know if anyone else has had this issue and if replacement is needed.  thanks 

LeChap

Good point db_Cooper..

db_cooper

I just moved ours to the tongue as well.  This cover fit perfectly, and should hide most of the marks.

Classic Accessories 75347 Overdrive Universal Fit Spare Tire Cover, Black, Small https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000MDZLR2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_5qdSpxQPozmd6

LeChap

thanks

ScottG

Along the same line, those using the jack-post mounting approach (where the tire actually sits on the frame rails), might want to rotate the tire on the mount every so often to avoid creating dents or other irregularities in the tire.

Anyone know if this is even an issue? I haven't touched my spare since moving it to the tongue a year ago.

db_cooper

I was able to mount the bracket high enough to have the tire suspended about 1cm above the frame.  I was planning on letting it rest on the frame but that made it impossible to put the tire cover on.  I figure if the jack can hold the trailer it can hold the tire too.

wizard1880

I'd be concerned about the leverage from that tire's weight bouncing and bending the jack post.  Perhaps you can put the tire cover on first, then let the tire down to rest?