Last Porsche spare details - then I'll drop it (archive)

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To use the M mobility kit without tire sealer, you simply ue the black air pressure hose connected to the tire, and omit the white sealer hose. The airpump line (black) will fill a tire with air just fine. The white (clear) line is the sealer line. Connecting the black line back into the pump housing, and connecting the clear line to the tire is how tire snot is forced into the tire.

Installing the adapter is easy enough. I found sticking a screwdriver into the veins in the disc brake, and jamming it against the caliper works to hold the hub while you tighten the adapter bolts works fine.

Last bits: Cost for used spare is $135 - $175 if you can find them, new can run anywhere from $275 to $425. H&R adapter is # 50795725-716 and runs $179 per pair (sell one to a freind, to get cost to $80.) All-in for a salvage spare and spacer is $225 +/-

Biggest problem: What to do with the flat tire. A 265/40 rear wheel is a bit big and really eats storage space. If you are already loaded with gear, this will require some real re-packing effort. Carry a tire bag (from tire dealer) to put the flat in. Also top speed with the spare is 55mph (same if you use the tire snot.)

Of course, you could always buy my extra spare, the 17" AT Italia wheel with SO2 tire mounted, for $75 plus freight, to save money ;)

I've attempted to contact Verdestein about whether they have a BMW bolt pattern product for the M coupe, M3, and M5, that would negate the use of adapter. They listened and said they would look into it, but so far they have offered no response.

I know it doesn't add power, make more noise, or look flash, and it isn't gonna impress the sweeties... however, the only time I have ever had problems with tires is a.) they get a slow leak, or b.) they blow out and are total trash. In the case of slow leaks, you can use the air pump without sealer and keep moving. In the case of a blow-out, no sealer in the world is going to work (mobility instructions state it will not work on holes larger than .15"!). If a blow-out happens on some remote road (no cell phone), or on the way home late in the evening from a track school(no time to screw around), having a crutch spare is much more convenient than any other option. Hence my concern and effort in this regard.

Note to BMW (we know you're lurking out there somewhere): The M Mobility kit is a seriously lame solution! A little company like Porsche solves the problem correctly, so why can't you?

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