New tires, missing spoke

[pdplot]

On good advice, on my TR6, after 17 years, I finally replaced my old 185 Michelins with new Michelin Defenders - 205/70/15. Rides a bit better and steers much better. Only problem - found out I was missing a spoke on right rear rim. I have 4 choices;1) replace the rim (expensive), 2) switch with my spare rim which appears to be in better shape, 3) If it's possible to buy a new spoke, replace the missing spoke which means stripping off the plastic or whatever is inside the tire protecting the tube and hoping the new rim band will be just as good or 4) just drive it as is. Is there any problem with option number 4?

 

[trrdster2000]

PDplot, Is the whole thing missing or is it broken off? My concern would be the part that's inside the tire, is it moving and rubbing on the tube. If it's missing completely then drive with care until you can replace it.
Did the tire changers tell you about it, I hope they did and it sounds like you may need a wheel tuneup, these things are 30 years old or more, give them the old wrench test and see how loose they are. A dull thud is not good.

Wayne

 

[bnw]

After one spoke breaks, more spokes break. Turn it into your spare.

 

[Geo Hahn]

If you want to avoid the expense of replacing the wheel then you should replace the spoke. I wouldn't worry about disturbing the bands inside the rim as these can be easily replaced (I use plumbers' PVC tape from Ace Hardware et al for a non-gooey wrap).

I would not drive with a broken spoke, as noted this will encourage others to break.

Mostly just some hard work, the worst of which can be farmed out if your tire place will unmount and remount the tire & tube.

 

[TR3driver]

I would not drive with a broken spoke, as noted this will encourage others to break.