Space saver on the front of performance pack

[willni]

Hi Folks,

Quick question but couldn't find an answer elsewhere. Would fitting a space saver or other sized spare alloy to the front of a performance pack cause damage to the VAQ diff?

I put on a spare 18in bbs I had lying about on the front of mine there to get a 19 refurbed, and just thought now that the difference in roll diameter and grips could lead to putting stress on the diff, as I know some cars throw a fit at different brand tyres.

Don't plan on driving it anyway, but it was just a thought for future knowledge.

Edit: I should note it's a 7.5 as they have the mechanical differential.

[madstaff]

I would say not as the whole point of a diff is to allow for the differing wheel speeds on each front wheel.

Outer wheel travels much further and therefore much faster then inner wheel when cornering.

[willni]

I would say not as the whole point of a diff is to allow for the differing wheel speeds on each front wheel.

Outer wheel travels much further and therefore much faster then inner wheel when cornering.

I thought of that but being limited slip, could it could issues as all cars have a differential.

But in my case you have a 225/40R18 and a 235/35R19 not a massive difference in size as they're similar rolling circumference but still 1.08% out iirc.

[golfdave]

The VAQ unit that is part of the GTI-PP is not a mechanical differential.

It is simply a modified haldex unit that is bolted between the gearbox & driveshaft on the UK driver's side.

You still have a basic "open" type differential in the gearbox.

I won't matter what wheel you fit as a spare, so long as its fits over the brakes, & the centre bore & bolt holes match, & the tyre rolling diameter is within a few % of the factory sizes.

[Exonian]

^^^^ 100% what golfdave says

Added to that, if you’re using a space-saver on the front you’d be driving ultra gingerly and for as little time as absolutely necessary so you’d not be putting strain on anything other than your own nerves.
Anything more than that you’d be better off fitting the full size rear tyre to the front and the space-saver to the rear and still drive super-cautiously and sloooow.

[willni]

Happy days the more you know, thanks chaps. It hasn't moved anyway but was more curiosity while I get a wheel refurbed.

[Exonian]

Useful reference if ever anyone gets a flat tyre on the front.

Is that one of your BBS needing attention Will?

[Finglonga]

Drove around Scotland with the Space Saver on the front for a couple of days after getting a blowout on a bank holiday weekend. Also the ONLY time I have ever used the speed limiter to stay below 50mph with it on.

[willni]

Useful reference if ever anyone gets a flat tyre on the front.

Is that one of your BBS needing attention Will?

Unfortunately it is, I kerbed it first week I put them on...but it is what it is, awkward car park exit and I was more concerned about hitting the wing mirrors.