Friendly reminder: check your spare!

That's quite a stretch as a reason for not carrying one.

There are thousands of different types, and they aren't all built alike. If I had one that wasn't working like that, I'd put some oil in it. If it ruins the compressor, big whoop, another 10 bucks gone.

 

True.
YMMV

 

I like a full-size bicycle pump, just a hand pumping type. It can be a bit of a workout, but dependable, and no chance of running your 12 volt down.

Decent ones are hard to find though. Ours is not that great, hard to get firmly planted on the valve, takes pretty much all your strength and is very awkward. Apart from that it's great, lol.

 

that's why i carry a spare.

 

I was always OC about keeping 60psi in compact spare tires until i discovered an explosion in a spare tire in corolla. the spare was 8 year old at that time. i guess they do get tired from all that pressure. IMHO, the best combination is a moderate pressure (like 30psi) and a compressor to top it up when needed.

 

yikes! interesting viewpoint, especially for older spares.

 

Then where would they put all the hardware that's (inefficiently) packed into the concave side of the spare tire? You probably could remount the tire "valve topside" with a longer bolt and a large washer.

 

Same story when I took delivery of my "Certified" 2011. Spare tire pressure was duly checked off on the long Carfax list of inspected items, but the actual pressure was about 17 psi.

I agree with keeping moderate pressure in the spare, and a good muscle-powered pump.

 

I'm not sure which is harder to bring up to pres via muscle power, maybe the spare? 60 PSI can be a bear. I've re-aired a regular from dead flat (after plug repairing), that takes a while.

 

My road bike tires run at 110 PSI. My foot pump is designed for it. 60 PSI spare is a snap.