[FC] Spare tire alternatives

[Vairtec Corporation]

A suitable "temporary spare" or "space saver" spare for the FC comes out 
of virtually any 1980s-era GM midsize -- Cutlass, Monte Carlo, et al.  
They are RWD cars with the 5x4.75 bolt circle.  The General made 
millions of 'em.

Put it in the stock location and the engine cover will clear it.

It will vary in in overall diameter from the stock wheel and tire, just 
like it does in the original GM midsize donor car.  It is intended for 
temporary use!

I know one fellow who replaced the temporary tire with a tire intended 
for a VW beetle, a skinny 15-inch tire.  Worked!

As for hinging the engine cover, many people have done this but not me.  
First, I have yet to see such an installation that didn't look like the 
owner did it himself. Second, if you hinge it left or right as has been 
suggested it will hit the top of the door opening, so it remains in your 
way to a certain extent.  Third, such a mod typically compromises the 
"seal" between the cover and the engine compartment, making for a 
noisier van.

--Bob Marlow