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Got the same set up as ENCSDoug. Here's a pic. (My car really does sit flat despite how it appears in the picture). The half shafts and struts are level when on a flat surface.
Oh boy, look out guys. There will soon be postings that will establish that the tire is part of the structural integrity and crash protection designed by GM engineers!! I think it is a bunch of B.S., and would really like to have some factual proof of that just for clarification. From a common sense standpoint, and I am NOT trying to act like an engineer, but an impact from behind would already be INTO the fuel tank by the time it reaches the edge of the tire....and also remember what is holding that tire into the car...nothing more than a V shaped strap. A rear impact COULD be slowed down if the tire remains in the position it is in, but it also could just be popped out of the fiberglass tub, especially considering its mounted in the tub at an angle, and not completely horizontal.
Anyways, I like the looks of it without the carrier, but I also found it looks a bit empty too.
Last edited by Shovels and Vettes; Feb 9, 2017 at 06:55 PM.
I have to tell you I love everything about your car, your styling and performance choices, tires, wheels, etc.....it just looks right.
Originally Posted by revitup
No way I'm going anywhere without a spare.
I don't think the tires on my car will fit in the tub with the spare on and the wife won't be happy driving home with a tire in her lap.
And if you need to replace the rear tire, the spare really needs to be the same diameter as the other rear tire or you risk damaging the clutch packs in the differential.
If a tire blows out, I'm probably going to need a tow truck anyway because my fender will be hanging off the car.
I've always used a call phone and road side service. I've always replaced my Run Flats with normal tires. My last roadside flat was in 1983.
BTW if you are going to use the spare check the air pressure and age. Many of my old cars were really low on pressure. AND when I removed the C3 Spare it was original LOL.
by https://www.flickr.com/photos/123721740@N04/, on Flickr
I filled my tub up with some lightweight emergency supplies (compressor, etc.) I could see doing this with same supplies if it provided some aero benefit. I am curious as to whether eliminating the tub increases aero drag as I expect the tail would catch some air, as would this cover. Possibly if it lapped up near the running gear, this cover might be lower drag. Didn't research whether this is really available, as, as shown, I wouldn't be interested.
Removed mine many years ago. Put it upstairs in the garage. It's the original so wouldn't do me any good, anyway. Everythings original under the rear so nothing special to look at like coilovers. Just empty and clean. Makes it a lot easier at my age to check things and do any work. If I ever have a flat I'll just call for a flat bed tow back to the house.
Duane
Took mine off within a month after buyin' it.....and after doing a complete front and rear suspension overhaul, I surely didn't want that heavy crap back on....speshly after putting in a composite rear spring & eliminating ANOTHER 35 pounds of crap!
2nd pic doesn't really show the "eliminated" spare tire crap very well, but I still like the authentic plate that came with the car...it IS an original '79 plate, not issued to this car, but it IS approved by Mich., and it has a "non-expiration date".....so cool I must say!
Last edited by Sluefoot; Feb 11, 2017 at 08:27 AM.
I have no comment on engineering or structural integrity. The idea that the slight weight difference would affect the performance of these cars is a little funny. I guess if people choose to depend on a can of fix a flat rather than an actual tire to get their beloved car home, thats their call. And, I suppose if you have a custom car, the look might appeal to you with no carrier and the underside painted and chromed, etc.
My personal opinion, C3 Corvettes have a tire carrier in the back. You barely notice it except when its missing. When its scrubbed and detailed, it looks good. I just hate the look of a C3 (or a C2 for that matter) without the carrier. It leaves this big gaping hole where GM designed a place for something thats obviously missing.
Absolutely pure personal preference. I dont think theres anything anyone can say on either side that changes the fact that you either like or dont like the look of a missing carrier. Decide for yourself.
Last edited by vettebuyer6369; Feb 11, 2017 at 02:30 PM.
