I have read on here that the temp spare can be replaced with a full size one. I would like to hear from anyone who has made the switch, how it went and what tire/rim did you use? I want to use the vette for some long trips and would feel better having a decent spare, Trying to find a 275/40/17 in stock anywhere would be hard if I blew out a tire.

 

Exactly what I was thinking, but what about a spare of the same diameter but not near as wide? Actually I don't even know what the hell is in there as I have yet to drop it.

 

There are various 'compact spares' that will actually fit the carrier BUT there are none that actually have an appropriate bolt circle for use. You buy an appropriate 'late model' spare and then do a bolt-on adapter to make it useable on your particular car. You use a 'compact spare' that has reasonably priced tires for service years down the road. An advantage of late model 'compact spare' and an adapter is you can usually manage offset and diameter issues for various brakes if you modify those..

This has actually been done by many. Some of the later GM have 14mm wheel studs and that actually doesn't present a problem either.

*** You can't be to concerned since you've not even 'peeked' at what's there presently.

 

You should look.
A C4 compact spare is the same diameter, just not as wide

 

Thanks, I'll drop it and go from there.

 

In addition to the larger spare, A good idea is to carry one of those kits with the rubber tire plugs and cheap tool to insert the plugs - and one of those compressors that plug into the lighter. I no longer drive the Corvette on Long Road Trips, but I carry plugs, pair of vice grips & pair of needle nose to pull nails (and a flat and phillips to remove screws) and small compressor in case I pick up something on the road etc. I have the "same kit" in my Grand Cherokee and in my wife's car. They've helped me out of a jamb appx 5-6 times over the last 20 years or so. (Once on the way to a wedding in a Tux !!) I'm also looking for a bit of a larger spare option since other things happen that can't be simply plugged to get home.

Oddly: I picked up a 3 of these compressors at Harbor Freight when they were $19 about 10-12 years ago. I went back 3 times with a 20% off coupon and got them for $16 each. I figured they'd crap out, and to my surprise they are still working perfect. The one I keep in the Jeep, has been "Over used" on everything from tractor wheels, parts cars / every time I need to air something up in the driveway etc, and like the rest, is still working great. Not sure how the quality is now. They're about $36 now. The metal body on these compressors make a big difference (as you can melt the plastic cheapie compressors trying to fill up some performance and SUV tires.

My wife has come out numerous times at work or shopping after hitting nails and the best thing I ever did is show her how to use these small compressors. Even if it's just enough air to get her someplace well lit / safe. Well worth it.

 

I believe they said the ZR1 tires in the rear are too wide to be slung in the compartment and should be carried in the car? Are you willing to carry a spare wheel or tire in the car? If not, the compact spare is the only option.

Hanging that low isn't going to be easy. Hit a bump and well......

 

I think it's a bad idea to carry around a full size wheel/tire combo in the spare tire tray. The tray has to be expanded downward to fit a full size wheel, which makes it vulnerable to road impacts, not to mention unsightly (it's one of the few ways to make a C4 ugly from the rear).
Yes the ZR-1 rear wheels are too wide to fit into the spare tire tray. So all ZR-1 cars come with straps (and hooks?) to fasten the blown tire/wheel into the hatch area. I just wonder what happens when the hatch is already full of luggage and road trip supplies...

 

Spare tire delete....I like that idea of carrying plugs and a compressor though.