Wheel width difference potential adverse effects

2001 FORD RANGER
195,249 MILES • 3.0L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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RDANNENFELSER
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The four primary wheels on this truck are 15×7 steel wheels with chrome wheel skins. The wheel for the spare tire, however, is a 15×6 basic steel wheel. Attached are pictures of both wheel types. All wheels including the spare are mounted with 225/70R15 size tires.

Due to one of the four primary wheels having been damaged and no longer usable, my question is as to if there could be any potential adverse effects in running the spare as a permanent replacement in light of that the wheel is 1" narrower? The backspacing of the spare wheel differs from the primary wheels by a half inch, but the offset is the same at 12 mm positive. There are no clearance issues with the fender well, drum, or with suspension travel with the spare installed.

While I'm sure it would be recommended to use an exact replacement wheel, money is tight and my options limited. I'd just like to know if running the spare as the permanent replacement despite the difference in width will be safe and without negative effect on the truck.

Also, if there aren't any foreseeable potential problems using the spare wheel, would there be a recommendation for whether to run it on the rear axle or on the front of the truck? The truck is an automatic 2WD with 4-wheel ABS and a limited-slip differential.

Thanks for any info/advice you might offer.
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May 23, 2019 at 1:23 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good morning,

Yes, you can use it but I would not use it permanently. I would use it temporarily until you can get a 15X7 wheel replacement.

It is not unsafe but you will notice premature wear on that tire from the width difference.

Roy

May 23, 2019 at 3:00 AM
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STEVE W.
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To echo what Roy said, the tire mounted on the narrower spare rim will have a slightly different footprint that will increase the wear on that tire. If you were to cut a section out of the tires as mounted on the different widths you would see the narrower rim has a smaller contact patch than the wider rim.
You might want to look at car-part.com to see if a salvage yard near you has the correct wheel. What is the damage to the original wheel? Rust or physical damage?
May 23, 2019 at 7:05 AM
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RDANNENFELSER
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The wheel has actual physical damage that is not just cosmetic. Sections of the wheel lip are bent. A local wheel repair company didn't have much faith in it being able to be repaired and advised replacement.
May 23, 2019 at 9:19 AM
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STEVE W.
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Hmm, usually a steelie can be put back real easy. However unless it's an expensive rim they may advise replacement because of cost. Especially if you mentioned that money is tight. I show them available for $50.00 to $75.00 around my area.
May 23, 2019 at 12:09 PM