Fuchs valve stem support
 

Hi everyone,

I have an '87 Carrera with 6x7x16 Fuchs.

Last night I purchased a set of 7x8x16 Fuchs and noticed that they don't have the valve stem support like the 7s that I currently have. Is this due to the 7x8x16s being older? I assume that it is OK without them. Does anyone know of a way to add them. I would think that on the track, the support would be a good safety item.........

:confused:


Thanks in advance,


-Chris

The valve stem support is an aftermarket item. Personally I prefer metal valve stems which don't need the support.

I imagine the tire shop would be able to add stem supports. That would be a very good idea actually. I have seen posts before where guys had the rubber valve stem shear & lose air on the track.

I have had problems with the valve stem
supports. I had one eat into the stem and
cause a leak ! I strongly suggest metal
stems for all Porsche rims.

It's not an aftemarket item...it has a Porsche part number.
If used correctly...it won't bite into rubber and avoids hi-speed centrifuge failure....

It's not used on 6" because the angle is wrong...used on larger sizes, though.

Wil

So, given that the set of 7x8x16s that I just bought does not have the supports on any of them, would you guys suggest getting them installed or simply going with metal stems as Kurt mentioned?


Thanks again, you guys are the greatest!


-Chris

metal stems.

If you are mounting new tires, go with metal stems. If you like the looks of stem supports, get the Porsche OEM. It's six half a dozen, whatever you like.

I am sure Pelican can order the stem supports for you. That said I would go with the metal stems if possible.
The stem supports are basically held onto by an adhesive, looks like double sided thin foam tape to me.

What?! Nobody is gong to discuss the aerodynamics of adding the supports?

That's exactly what it is. Just like the black wheel weight backing tape.

Mine had been gone when I bought the car and never re-installed them, until I took the car to RUF for some work. They took it upon themselves to install a set for me. They're my street Fuchs, so I don't care. The wheels do clean up easier w/o them though.

The company that used to be Tweeks has them in the catalog for a couple bucks.

agree, metal stems w/ gasketed caps

Metal it is :)


Thanks everyone!


-Chris

Please don't use metal stems unless your wheels are designed specifically for them. Metal stems use two small rubber gaskets that, over time, shrink up and begin to leak! Plus metal stems cannot survive an impact from the side, laterally. They just shear clean off.

Just use the rubber valve stems with the stem supports. Use a small zip tie on the stem to the support to keep the stem from whipping around when on the track.

Huh? I have never had a problem with the gaskets shrinking up. Of course I change the metal valve stems every time I get new tires.

Pelican sells the factory aluminum valve stem supports. I bought mine from them. They are a nice touch and a conversation piece. They look great on my 7 & 8 fuchs. Go to the Pelican catalong and search valve stem. You should be able to find them. I think a set of 4 cost @ $15.00

Aluminun Valve Stem Support - Pelican Part # C-361-561-01, $3.70 per piece.

Be careful of some metal stems.
 

Some are only metal sleeves that slip over the rubber stems. The sleeve doesn't extend down into the opening in the rim. If you look at the base, which is the weakest point in terms of centrifugal forces, it's still unsupported rubber. I've stuck with the metal supports on mine. I would think if the metal stem is supported all the way into the base, it would work fine.

Leaks with metal stems:

Happened to me. The rubber does indeed perform a shrinky dink manuever.
But, they provide excellent support.