Spare tire question

[bkrantz]

This may be a dumb question, but does the 986 series spare tire work on the 987 series?

Bob K

2005 Boxster S

[rick3000]

I don't think it will fit in the 987, and there is no bolt to hold it in place.

[wizard263789]

The spare wheel for a 987 is available as an optional extra (very nice of Porsche!!). It has part number 996 362 020 04; the 986 spare wheel has part number 996 362 030 00.

Odd they are old range 996 numbers but different 996 numbers, no idea what ,if any, difference there is between them.

[White987S]

Bkrantz, where are you going to put it?

[berty987]

I looked into this before going on a European tour a few years back. The suggested spare for the 987 series cars uses the optional 996 turbo spare wheel (165/60/17). This is the only car in the previous 996 /986 range that had a similar rolling radius to the current 987 due to the larger section tyres. Unfortunately the wheel is a belt type tyre , so it must be stored deflated. The suggested storage location from Porsche is in the rear trunk utilising a special foam inset to replace the standard boot liner, though it will fit in the front trunk too. The issue however is more to do with the size of the removed wheel and where it can be located , especially if it is a rear wheel and 19"diameter.

The 996 16" space saver wheel (105.90.16) will fit a 987 , but the rolling radius is slightly smaller , therefore if you fit the space saver , ideally you need to ensure its only fitted to the front axle , and may need to swap a front wheel to the rear. The advantage of using the 996 spare is that it can sit fully inflated in the front trunk (thanks to its slim width) and has the toolkit and jack in a foam insert in the middle of it. Even with the space saver in place , I still have room for two suitcases in the front trunk. The tyre doesnt need any fixings as the rake of the bonnet prevents the wheel and tyre moving about. Its a tight fit under the hood (bonnet) and the tyre rubs just slightly on the options sticker, so I put a clearcote sticker over it. As to the issue of transporting the spare wheel, I found that a set of bungee cords and a custom made rubber mat allows the removed wheel to be secured to the outsite top of the rear trunk cover. Since you are limited to 50 mph on the space saver , this is acceptable until you find a suitable garage for repair. A used 996 space save in 16" size with tools and jack can be bought quite reasonably from a breakers or E bay. The OEM 17" space saver wheel for the 987 is about 450 Uk pounds (900 USD).

Edited December 1, 2007 by berty987