Thanks guys so much! i Think I'm going to save some $$ and just get a 17"x7-1/2" steel wheel off ebay for $50 then go and get a tire put on it. I wanted a 17"x9" steel wheel but now i know it wont hurt my D so thanks!

 

No problem man and good to hear you got a game plan. My .02 is not to drive that long without a spare tire because you really never know what could happen.

 

i agree with widow, you only need the spare when you dont have one.

 

By the way everyone if you do want a new 17"x9" spare go to either moparpartsamerica.com or globalchryslerjeepdodgeparts.com. They both have most spare parts for our rigs. Whatever you need. If you want the 17"x9" though you need to do to the 2003 durango section even if yours is a 02. I'm pretty sure the lug pattern is the same and year doesn't really matter. They're like $110 new and you can also get the winch for like $85. I'm gonna try buying it soon then goin to get a tire for it

 

I think what he is talking about is the Transfer Case on an AWD 4X4, not the transmission.

If this is the case, then YES it is VERY bad to intermix different size tread or any diameter because it winds up the T-case even with relief it wears the T-case out.

Also, even on a regular T-case you can wind up the front end in 4X4, or if you have a LSD REAR differential it will wear out the clutch packs.

The front end never came with a LSD (Limited Slip Differential) in any of the 1998-2003 Durango, the only option is Open unless the OEM train was modified.

 

would like to find a space saver spare for my Dakota 06 , the reason I want this is that the storage system is a joke and would sooner have a little emergency tire I can carry conveniently in the bed( so I can get at the blasted thing-usually repair my own tires

 

6 year old thread......