Never Fear Flat Tires Again: Easy Tire Repair for Screw/Nail Punctures
2023 ж. 13 Мау.
1 479 368 Рет қаралды
All My Favorite Tools - www.amazon.com/shop/everydayh...
The ability to fix a flat with an inexpensive tire repair kit is one of those basic skills that can get you out of a tough situation. I will walk you through the complete process using an example where I recently got a screw in one of my tires and was able to fix the issue in 10 mins.
Free Home Maintenance Checklist:
everydayhomerepairs.com/home-...
Friends Don't Let Friends Tape Outlets T-Shirt: everyday-home-repairs.creator...
Join Our Community on Patreon: / everydayhomerepairs
DISCLAIMER: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission.
I learned how to plug tires 50-years ago working at a local garage. Still using a plug repair kit I purchased 40-years ago. I have repaired all my own flat tires. Never had an issue with any plug I installed. All lasted till the tread was worn and the tire was scrap.
me too, I have used plugs on all my flat tires for more than 40 years. I also used plugs to repair my BMW run-flat tire. It is running well with no problems.
@@dpi168 when you insert the plug and tool, question on removal of the tool, do you twist it back and forth while removing the tool? And do you ever have to do it twice when a plug comes back out with the tool during removal. Thanks.
@@kevinhiggler2896 Key is to pull it out quickly...Just straight back out..
Me too
@@Pete391 thanks!
Two things , don’t let the tire go flat and try to insert the plug. If at all possible inflate the tire to at least 30 lbs and the plug will go in much easier and if the nail or screw is very small don’t be afraid of enlarging the puncture a little so the plug will go in . If it is a larger puncture you can also use 2 plugs in the same hole. I have done this many times !….. Thanks for doing this video !…..
@@repentandbelieveinJesusChrist4 But what about the tire repair ?…….
???
As well as carrying this kit in my vehicle, I also carry a 12 Volt mini compressor as well. This lets you pump up the repaired tire to the proper operating pressure after fixing the leak.
I also carry my little compressor with me.its a life saver.
I have Ryobi 18v/One+ tools and keep the 'gun-style' compressor in the car at all times. Got it for $20 on sale and it's awesome.
@@ItchyKneeSon I'll do you one better: pick up an impact wrench AND an air pump that will work with your favorite tool brand's batteries, and throw in an impact-rated socket kit for lug nuts. If one of those sockets fits over the eyelet on your jack where the removable handle normally goes, all the better: you will finish so fast a NASCAR pit crew will pull over and offer you a job on the spot. lol
..or just use a normal foot pump?..
How does the plug holder just pull back out without bringing the plug.
Wow, I am so grateful for this video! So simple to fix. Now I can drive my RV or car worry free anywhere. Very well explained, excellent video, thank you!!! Subscribed. Thank you for NO MUSIC, what joy for my ears. Very soothing to listen to, without the intense irritation of music blaring away.
Yes. No irritating music.
I like your 'box'. Nice idea. I have had plugs in my car for years (I live in central Texas, so it gets pretty hot for much of the year) without them drying out, but keeping everything together is a great idea. Also, I find that the cement is mostly helpful as a lubricant for the plugs. I use E6000, which I can get it tiny tubes. Rubber cement works, but the tubes dry out after you open them, whereas the E6000 sticks a LOT better (in case you actually need it for glue), and I've been able to reuse one of those little tubes more than a year later. A kit like this, and one of those plug-in air compressors, and I've never been stuck on the side of the road. I make sure my wife and daughters always have such a kit in their cars, as well. I've even repaired sidewall punctures with such things. I've always regarded these repairs as permanent, and never had any problems even with tires with multiple such patches leaking.
E6000 adhesive !!! Thank you.
I've been doing this for 30 years on all of my vehicles and trailers. Never had an issue and I've done plenty of 'dangerous' type repairs.
As a 18 year veteran of the tire industry I have a few points to make here. The main reason the big chain tire stores wont repair even the puncture in this video is for liability issues. 1" from the edge of the tread is what I have had to go by ever since I started working for someone else. When it was my own shop I repaired holes everywhere all the time and never had any problems. I have patched sidewalls, the corners and everything in-between when I was in the business but I used a specific patch that was flexible. Most places now use a patch that is very stiff and I hate them. Plugs are at best a temporary fix. The biggest problem with them is air can leak into the cords of the tire and cause it to catastrophically fail, or it might only start leaking a week/month/year later, or if you are lucky it will be fine until the tire wears out. The best thing to do is if you have to plug it, as soon as you get back to civilization, go to a tire guy and have them put a patch on the inside. Also, those plugs that are made out of rope dipped in gunk are prone to drying out and can start to leak shortly after putting them in when the gunk goes away. At that point you essentially have a piece of rope stuck in the tire, and nails hold air better than rope does. If you can find the pure rubber plugs those are way better, even for temporary use due to the fact they will also keep moisture from getting to the steel belts and allowing them to rust, rope plugs wont keep water out. And last, any time a tire has been repaired it is a good idea to put it on the rear of your vehicle, no need to do anything special on a trailer though. Where I work now I work on city buses and none of the tires on the 200 bus fleet has repaired tires on the front. One thing though, this is buses, on passenger cars it isnt as important, just recommended. I do it myself if/whem I ever have a flat.
Thanks for all the great feedback Dave.
Some really useful info here from all
If I ever plug one again, I'll certainly be sure to move it to the rear or substitute it for the spare.
@@wholeNwon if you have a proper repair done it can be left on the front, but with only a plug you are right.. But wouldnt having a ship patch it be cheaper than another tire? hehe
@daveisnothere So if I went to have a tire fixed would they just plug it or would I have to ask for the patch on the inside?
Thanks for your nice info-clip and yes, the PVC pipe is a much better for the storage of the plugs than the little zip lock bag I have been using so far - take care and try to stay out of trouble!
Keyboard Warrior here. Good tutorial on plugging a tire, an ability that has been around for almost as long as we have had tubeless tires. The "bonding helper" actually acts as a lubricant to help you insert the plug. For modern plugs it really doesn't help bond the plug to the tire (but it doesn't hurt either). Also, plugs outside the last tread groove are on the tire's shoulder and tire experts will tell you that the tire is "unrepairable", so if you plug in this area keep an eye on the repair to insure it doesn't turn into a future problem.
Simple repair video, but re-mastered by Scott himself. Thank you for all your videos over the years, i’ve applied them to my home and life and I am forever in your debt. Thanks Scott I hope you’re taking care ❤
He has no idea what hes doing.
totally agree! ive roped plugged a few tires in my lifetime and they have all lasted the life of the tire. i currently have a rope plug in my motorcycle which i got a few months back AND recently in my honda odyssey.
This useful video inspired and motivated me to purchase the featured kit “just in case”. Some months later I find myself using it to repair a slow leak from an embedded screw all the while teaching my son how to be more self-reliant and fix a flat. TY for this and all the wonderful content on this channel!
The first time I used one of these kits I planned to only use that tire for a couple of more months after the flat from a nail and replace it. Four years later and many thousands of miles the tire was still going strong and gave me no troubles till the tread eventually wore out. It's true what the man said. These things are inexpensive and they work!
yep same here temp fixed turned lifetime of the tire many times, the tread will wear before the patch goes.
Most of these plugs are "rated" at around 600 miles at 40MPH, reducing at higher speeds. Though some people have run them for 3-4 years and 10x that mileage before they start to leak again. (EDIT: Also depends if there is a vulcanizing component or not).
@@Rroff2I have been repairing punctures with plugs for fifty years and I have never had a plug "leak". They have always lasted the life of the tire and I never drove any differently.
@@Rroff2 Who rated that? The company that doesn't want to get sued over a false claim? They last until the tire is done. End of story.
I've also had very good luck with plugs laying the life of the tire, no issues. Only once did I have a problem with a leaker, I must have done something wrong, it leaked from the beginning.
I was doing this back in the 1960's when I was a teenager working at a gas station. tried and true fix.
So precise and made simple, keep them coming
Good to know there is an easy, workable solution to permanently fix a flat!
Love your vids. Always helpful. I’ve been using plugs for flats all my life and they’ve never let me down. 💜💜💜
Thanks so much for the support and feedback!
I always keep one of these kits in my vehicles. It has saved me from being stranded or having to change a tire so many times and has saved me hundreds of dollars. I've never had one fail on me. One time I even put 2 on a side wall cut on a friend's truck. He didn't have a spare so we were desperate. Not only did the plugs hold but the dummy drove on that tire for 3 or 4 months like that before replacing it and the plugs held. At this point I see little to no need for expensive patches at tire shops anymore.
Thank u so much for this video. I have never plugged my own tires , too scared. I will try it this weekend. Thanks for the video.
EHR - I'm truly grateful for your no bullshit delivery, which makes viewing so much more enjoyable, and smart af troubleshooting solutions. Big fan. 🖖
This video has made me more aware of the issue. I never thought about such a kit, or about an air compressor, as some of the comments mentioned. Going to look into all this stuff this week. Many thanks. 👍
Yeah, I ended up also going for a cordless compressor from Makita to match up with all my batteries and other tools. Pretty handy to have in the truck toolbox.
I’ve been carrying this On all my Vehicles & a Air Pump for Many Years . Saved my Butt Many Times.
You can use a bike pump just takes time
@@jimmysapien9961 Thanks.
@@PeterHernandez-lg2eh Thanks.
A lot of newer cars lack a spare tire, even some "SUV" styled crossovers. So a kit like this is great insurance. Another very handy tool is a small portable air compressor that will run off the 12V plug in the car. I have a portable Viair unit and it's served me very well, topping off slow leaks in tires. Project Farm here on KZhead had a great rundown of different portable compressors.
good advice with the air compressor. i keep one in my car as well!
I've had 12v pumps for years, but I always extend the cable, and cut the cigarette lighter fitting off ,and put Crocodile clips on, and go straight to the battery. You can assist near by vehicles because of the cable reach.
A spare tire wouldn't be much good to you on its own, you need a spare wheel. Just change the wheel.
I just successfully repaired my first flat tire!! It was so fast and easy and went exactly as you described. Thanks for the video!
Great idea for holding the plugs. I’m always looking for ways to store things easily even in my garage.
Great advice in this video. As for storing extra plugs, I just put them in a Ziploc bag which keeps them from drying out.
Yeah I don't know that a pcv pipe is airtight.
I used to store the plugs in a ziploc bag on my motorcycle but they eventually wear through. I actually really like the PVC pipe idea.
@@Cosmos-xd7nk it is air tight enough for this, I kept plugs in a ziplock bag in a metal army ammo box for years in the US desert southwest where it is hot and dry with no issues
I like the Ziploc freezer bags for things like this. They work better than the thinner Ziploc bags for keeping things from drying out.
@@photonic they tend to have better zippers too
Thanks for this! As a gal who doesn't like to ask for help, this is exactly what I needed.
Sir, this may be the most useful video ive seen. Thank u so much. Great presentation. Keep up the good work
Very informative video and inspires one to do it yourself
Heads up on a plug that close to the sidewall. Not as big a deal on a non steering non driven wheel assembly but still a consideration. A lot of flexing and moving happens right at the corner of the tread/side wall. Great video and good thing for people to know how to use and have on hand. 20 years in construction and untold nail in tire issues I can say that it is faster to plug and reinflate a tire than to install the spare tire if you even have one. (often missing or already in use in construction vehicles). I once had a screw in a tire and didn't have a plug kit on hand. Removed the screw and wrapped it with electrical tape and the last drips of rubber cement from an old tire kit and reinstalled the screw...held air ten miles to the auto parts store. Havent been without a plug kit in the vehicle since.
Agreed, places like Discount Tire won’t patch a hole outside of the last rain groove. I personally will patch mine and take the risk.
That definitely works🤣I just posted the same thing but I just used caulk and a fresh screw😂
I always do it with a thumbs length. I never use plugs at work I always patch from the inside also the tread depth on this tire makes it non repairable
Rubber cement works great on the plugs before insertion. Really like the pvc holder!
all you need is a bottle
Just ordered the kit from Amazon, thank you boss! Good info!
Thank you - I will certainly buy these.
always carry a 12V mini air compressor in the boot - I have found there are certain places to avoid driving into which will guarantee a puncture such as rubbish dumps, work sites, hardware shop driveways and car wrecker yards and school yards if you are a school teacher
Wow, thank you for this information! It’s very useful, like all your videos. 😊
Thanks for the support 👍👍
I got one of these kits off ebay for £7 used it twice already, fantastic bit of kit. Ended up buying more for the rest of the family
Yeah, can get you out of a tough spot. I did get a cordless air pump as well so I could not only plug but also get a little more air in the tire if needed.
0 seconds ago They say it's not considered a "proper" repair unless it is also patched from the inside. I stopped doing that after I sold my tire removal tool and have gone a decade on several tires on my seasonal cars. The one bit of advice I was given worth passing on was to only turn the rasp tool in one direction. This makes sense. You're not trying to destroy the surface and make it all marbly . You just need 2 surfaces to mate well and adhere. Thx for taking the time to make the video
The last time I did this, I just couldn't force the reamer into the small puncture hole. Solution: Used an appropriate bit and electric drill to enlarge the hole enough to force the plug through. Worked well.
I've had to do that as well. My kit didn't come with the sealer, and I had a slow(er) leak as a result. Or maybe my drill bit was too large.
Let most of the air out of the tire and it will be easier. You're fighting the pressure releasing if not.
@@thenexthobby I started with a high speed bit just a little larger than the kit reamer and worked up until I was able to force the plug in. Lasted for the remaining life of the tire.
I cut the handle off the reamer and then used in Cordless drill, worked great
@@recentlyretired I didn't think of that. But drill bit worked well.
I've plugged possible hundreds of tires with a company called safty seal. I believe they have been around at least 50 years and know as the best. After plugging with their plug, it is recommended to drive the vehicle to warm up the tires and then they will vulcanize as one. Most shops use them or at least use to use them. I've never herd of ones failing.
I carry a kit in each car and also a lithium cordless air pump in each car(i check charge once a month). Great video!!Nice idea for storage of plugs!!👍👍
@tomkoala2903 - What kind / name brand brand of "lithium cordless air pump" do you have? If you have an Amazon link, please share. Thanks :)
Punctures don't care how much the tyre costs and at £170 each I've been worried about picking something up. Definitely worth trying this of it should happen. Thanks very much - helpful, unpretentious demo with refreshingly music-free soundtrack 👍🏼
Use this method about 20 or so years ago and it worked fine. Using empty prescription bottles might also be a good way to store the plugs.
For sure, thanks for the feedback!
Wow! Prescriptions??!! What kind of prescriptions??!! Like... Percocet and Vicodin?!! Or like metoprolol and metformin?
@@melissachartres3219 try using your Seraquel bottles.
I have had a few tires fixed this way, but you should watch them closely because sometimes there can be unseen damage. Also, never rely on this kind of repair with motorcycle tires.
this is a complete myth made by crappy riders. same people who say "never touch the brakes while in a turn". i've ridden tens of thousands of miles with a plugged motorcycle tire and as long as the plug job was done well, there's no issue riding with one at all.
@@ropeysubstance1719 You were lucky..... :)
I had a 2006 cbr600rr, i didn't know the front tire had 3 plugs and the rear had 2 plugs when i got it, it still went 163 mph without a hitch.
@@decythr Dang! Fast enough to blow my toupee off!
Somewhat less concern about the most serious issue with plugs, driving on a seriously low tire. It is easy to destroy the carcass of the tire by not noticing very low pressure if it is one of four wheels on a car, but not so easy when it is one of two wheels on a motorcycle. If a biker is riding on a flat tire for half an hour, something more than a flat tire is wrong.
Extremely helpful. Very elegant presentation.
Thanks for the feedback!
Outstanding video and GETS RIGHT TO THE POINT. Like the clever carrying case too. Now gotta look up the sidewalk crack.
In addition to a patch kit, I purchased a Ryobi dual inflator that works with the One+ battery (since a majority of my tools are from the One+ Family). I have it in my car on long road trips. If you keep tools on your work trailer, might be a good thing to add to your emergency kit. Just remember to keep the battery charged!
I like the little pumps that plug into the car's 12 V socket. That way, I don't need to worry about buying or maintaining a pump battery. But, if you have the tool batteries already, the battery-powered option could be good.
I love my Ryobi tools. But they get sneered at on the job site. Them Dewalt freaks can go suck a 2x4.
Great idea, I just started collecting Ryobi tools. I'll get a pump next.
@@jaya.0069 I am phasing out my Ryobi tools in favor of Harbor Freight's middle line, Bauer. Harbor Freight also has the best portable tire pump I have found; it is a small pump with a long 12V cord. Inflates rapidly and clips on the stem better than most of the pumps I have tried.
I have never had an issue using these. Typically, they come with rubber cement to use as a sealant. The directions say to use the rubber cement very liberally, which means make sure the plug is covered by the stuff. This ensures no leaks. Also, don't wipe the excess rubber cement off. The directions also say you don't have to trim the excess plug off, but you can if you want to.
I never bought a kit with cement. I've always used the tar plug with the poker if you leave plenty exposed you shouldn't need cement, but more is always better👍
EAST+ ALWAYS TRIM THE EXCESS, WHY WOULD YOU LEAVE THOSE TWO RUBBER EARS STICKING OUT
Kudos for upload: ufixing a flat tire. Was interested in learning the technique. Now I know ! Anticipating ur next one. Peace
Thank you for making this video. It was very useful and informative.
I consider this a short term fix. Might leave it in place for a while but I'd regularly check pressure. Since my plugs are so seldom used, they do go bad with age. Accordingly I've taken to carrying an assortment of short sheet metal screws and a new (unopened) tube of tire or rubber glue. Coat the appropriately sized screw with glue and just ram it home. Does as well as a plug. They even make tire repair screws that do the same job with some sort of dry sealant coating on them. I've used one and it was successful. But all the above deserve a trip to a tire repair shop when convenient.
I have used them on my vehicles & twice on almost new rear motorcycle tyres & run all till the tyres run out of tread. Never had an issue & the kit in my main road bike is 15 yrs old.
When you remove the screw or nail mark the spot with marker to be sure you find the exact spot. It can be difficult once screw is out.
Putting some hair around makes it a little easier.
@@danielploy9143hair?
I circle it with a paint marker.
@@danielploy9143 It all depends on how much you had to drink !…….
No matter what the two nails (very small) I had in my tire I couldn't force the tool with the patch into the hole. I reamed it a lot then finally got my drill and opened it up a little more. After installing the patch with the glue I trimmed it and took them for a test drive no leaks. Of course one tire is a little low and the valve stem in too low. I bought new ones (changed one no problem) the second one will not come out. I think it's garage time for the tire. Thanks for the video - it gave me the confidence to do it.
I just ordered fix a flat and repair kit from amazon. Im not the strongest person but im going to give it a shot. Thank you for vid.
Excellent demo. And great idea about the PVC pipe container.
Another good video! Thanks! One thing: I would always recommend that the reamer and plug tools be all metal; the plastic handles don't age well -- they tend to break, or the metal reamer/plug parts come out of the handles and cannot be securely reattached. The cost, compared to the plastic ones, is not much higher and they'll probably last a lifetime.
I've had ones with the plastic handles forever and have used them many times over and never had a problem. But metal ones aren't a bad idea because it would suck if you are in the middle of nowhere and the handle broke.
Yeah, I've had the plastic T-handle completely separate from the reamer bit, then had to use vise grips to clamp onto reamer bit...pia...
Very informative. Thank you . Cheers
Certainly, this is helpful and thank you very much.
A plug is a great solution if you are in a pinch or if there isn’t much tread left on the tire. In the long term the tar on the plug will dry out and they will begin to leak. We have to fix them a lot at the shop I work at.
Yeah why don't they do patches anymore? I was always told long ago, don't do the plugs always go with the patches. Guessing just easier to use the plugs?
@@Christy.1 It's pretty much impossible to do a patch on the side of the road and definitely is, if one doesn't have the proper equipment.
@@Christy.1 Patching is still quite common at many shops.
If a plug is not a good long term solution, then why not just use foam to stop the leak until you get to a place to repair?
@@Cosmos-xd7nk it doesn’t work nearly as well as a plug and you are going to really create a mess for the person repairing your tire.
It's a temporary patch. Patch from the inside for a more permanent fix. I had one of these blow out on me, not fun.
I don't doubt you for a second. But I've used several, even a hole big enough that I had to use two plugs to get the leak to stop. Never had one fail. Probably put somewhere around 50k-60k miles on tires with plugs in them. No failures yet, but I'm sure it could happen.
@@kickeramps you are lucky
@@kickeramps Yes kick was very lucky.
Love the tip on the PVC container idea.👍
A very handy skill to know
If you ever get a flat while driving, after you fix the tire, you need to add air. I always carry a 12volt air compressor($50 or so) along with the tire repair kit.
This is something that should have been mentioned in the video. At the very least, have a simple bicycle tire pump. But, definitely add air. Thanks for pointing it out.
@@ussreeves I carry a simple high volume bike pump, and sometimes a fire extinguisher air tank kzhead.info/sun/arWDdKh5ZHp5i5E/bejne.html
Been plugging tires for 10 years with these simple plugs. I bought an all metal tool set after my plastic handled one broke. One note: I only had one fail when it was near the "shoulder" of the tire, as yours is here Scott. Keep an eye on it, my should repair plugs worked themselves into a slow leak after 6 months. I replugged and it happened again 6 months later, but, then it was time for a new tire anyway. Tx for the video.
A plug is not a patch. So you're not patching. You need to remove the tire off rim to patch it. Big difference.
Tire plug kit + 12v pump a c5 owner's best friend, the car came with run-flat tires instead of a spare. Gravel can push the plug inside if cut short, I usually leave a little sticking out.
Great how to vid. Thanks for posting 👍
Add a 12V cigarette plug air compressor and you are set to go. I carry a small compressor on my motorcycle along with the plugs and plug insertion tools. And I have had to use it to get home before.
My air pump's power cable connects directly to the car battery's terminals, similar to a jumper cable.
I usually light the plug on fire to let the plug get really sticky then cut it
Ah reminds me of what we used to call hot patches.. hate to tell you, but just letting it dry normally would have given you the same results.
@@daveisnothere I never had a leak once I let it burn a little but to each their own whatever works is what counts
Yup if it works it is all good. The only advantage it gives is it heats up the rubber of the plug and allows it to conform to the rubber of the tire a little more, sealing it off a little better. My point was that if you use a good rubber plug and patch on the inside, it is good enough and actually a bit of overkill, I used to just patch tires without a plug and that even worked fine. Now, burning a rope plug will give no benefit at all and I'd be cautious about heating the sticky goo on the plug because I dont know how it effects it chemically and what long term effects it can have.
@@daveisnothere I agree I am 64 and never had an issue.others constantly have leaks I don't like those plugs and usually remove the tire and patch from the inside. I go off roading alot and carry them in case of emergency and there has been plenty. They got me home and that's what counts. Thanks for the discussion
superb video , so clear and well explained. great job
excellent vid, straightforward and useful
Here in the UK something that close to the edge of tyre are a no-repair job. A new tyre has to replace this or it's an MOT failure, I have done this with a more central screw and it was very easy to do.
That's the same thing they said to me. I have a nail at that same location but the tire repair folks said I need a new tire a that area is close to where all the threads come together. Is that true or they just want you to get a new tire? The nail is still in my tire, I just pump it every now and then.
@@bogoonat20 In the UK, Tyres must be free from any foreign objects embedded in them (such as nails or screws) that could cause a puncture or leak. That is an MOT failure, no MOT and you can't legally drive on the UK roads.
From what I can see there is nothing in the MOT manual that states this repair would be an MOT failure.
@@Son-Of-Gillean If a screw or nail is causing the tyre to go down, that is a failure in an MOT as it's a safety hazard, they can be repaired. On the very edge of a tyre, they won't repair them and that is also a safety hazard.
@@charlesforeman9438 An obviously under-inflated tyre is a minor fault as per the MOT manual, so not an MOT failure. The MOT manual doesn't mention anything about foreign objects in tyres, so there is no fault classification, and therefore cannot be an MOT failure. It may come up as an advisory though. As for the repair, there is no mention of punture repiars in the MOT manual, it doesn't have a fault classification and therefore cannot fail an MOT. Tyre repair places wont do such a repair because it is not reccomend by the manufacturer and it doesn't conform to British Standard BSAU159, but the British Standard is voluntary, not a legal requirement.
Thanks. Would you consider this to be a permanent fix, or is it just to get you to a tire repair or replacement shop?
I've ran on plugged tires for months until they were replaced because of thread wear. Just check them with soapy water when repaired and if you allow the Sun to cure the rubber cement the better. If you're unsure you can go get the tire patched on the inside by a tire shop.
Every fix is temporary... the second time it fails. I've driven many plugs until the tires died of natural causes. Only had a couple give me problems. After the plug has had a day or two to really set, if it is a tire that does not have a TPMS add 4 or 5 pumps of slime and it will 99% likely to be a permanent fix. Of course, if you are overlanding in remote deserts.. get it patched proper or make sure your spare is good. If your vehicle is used for "essential life supporting tasks" or could leave you stranded in extremely dangerous conditions with a failure, consider a from-the-inside patch. Then again even those fail sometimes.
I've done this on several tires over the years, and the repair lasted as long as the tire. Repairing from the inside will cost about $40+ at a tire shop.
@@mattfleming86 .. or if you are flying down the highway at 80mph/130kph.
@@daveisnothere Good thing it is a slow leak and you would catch it (most likely within a couple days of the repair) on a pre-drive inspection. If you are driving 80mph or over on most US roads (interstates included) you have bigger safety concerns. In my experience regarding repaired tires you have more risk of picking up "new" debris than you do the plug failing. Of course common sense applies here. Nails and screws are great candidates. If you have a piece of rebar sticking out of your tire it's time to replace it.
Some helpful info I found on the web. Tire Plugs and String Repairs are Temporary Repairs. Side walls or even shoulder areas are not recommended to be repaired. Emergency roadside plug repairs are NOT intended to be a permanent tire repair. Plugs and string repairs are designed to get you back up and rolling long enough to get home or to the nearest service center to perform a proper tire repair.
I do the same. I also bought the Milwaukee M18 pump to keep in my truck as it inflates a tire very quickly on the fly.
The best thing about having this kit amd being able to use it is the fact that if you would have gone to a tire store, they would have said you need a new tire. Not because of the hole, but because it is in the first or outer most tread ring and too close to the shoulder of the tire.
They will always find a reason to sell you a new tire. It's what they do
And they would be correct in telling you that, especially if it was a tire mounted on the vehicle and not a trailer. The edges of the tread withstand a lot of flexing and heat buildup, especially on the front tires. And there might be cord damage that you cannot detect when using one of these kits. While you will read tons of comments claiming people have used these kinds of repair kits for years and never had a failure, that does not mean such repairs never fail. They do. So the question becomes, do you feel lucky? Are you willing to risk your life or your family members lives over a $150 tire?
@@gcraig0001 Scare tactics from a tire salesman. I have heard it all too many times before. I must be THE luckiest guy in the world because in 50 years of using these plug kits I have NEVER had one "fail"... EVER Oh yeah ...You forgot the "God forbid" part of the speil. You are slipping...ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha
If you have a spray bottle of some general purpose cleaner that will suds, just spray it on the tire. The last one I did I used a bottle of simple green. And because it is important: Do not attempt a repair like this in the sidewall of your tire. Only use it for holes in the tread!
Why not ?
@@Cosmos-xd7nk Sidewalls are thin so have much less glue surface in the hole. The flex of the sidewall causes the hole to open and close - possibly tearing wider if belting is damaged, and always putting additional stress on the glue joint and plug.
i got a thorn puncture on a sidewall resulting in a slow leak. a few psi every few weeks. i just top it off. your thoughts?
@@Sylvan_dB Absolutely.
@@yenbbc8840 I am not a fan of the flat-fix cans, but yours might be a good candidate. I doubt the thorn damaged any cords but trying to get a patch to put up with the flexing would be frustrating at best.
The pvc idea is brilliant!!!!
🙌
I love the PVC tip. Cheap and easy storage idea.
Can you explain how you removed the plug tool without pulling out the plug? It appeared to be threaded thru the tool. Does the tool cut the plug on the inside of the tire allowing the tool to be removed? Thanks.
There is actually a small gap in the end which allows the plug to pull through 👍
Lol I was thinking the same… I saw the gap of the tool that releases the plug
Just don't twist the insertion tool. If you wrap the plug around it, not good!
Inexpensive metal kits have a collar to push them apart
If you look inside the plug tool it has a split in it.. when you pull the tool outta the tire it leaves the plug inserted.. the split is at the end of the tool
What type of material are those tire PLUGS made out of and don't they dry up because storing them in hot temperatures sitting in the car during the day can make the tire Plugs material break up and expand?
The good ones are just string and tar. If the plug ever starts leaking in the future, just push it into the tire and replug it.
@@xDownSetx Rope plugs are really really bad. I cant count how many of them I had to repair shortly after some layman put them in thier tire. The best ones are solid rubber, they actually vulcanize to the rubber of the tire when covered entirely in cement, and they never dry out. But as I've said a few times here, ALWAYS get a patch put on the inside at your earliest convenience. If you have had plugs last a long time, you are lucky, most do fail eventually.
@@xDownSetx The tire plug String is made out of what material?
Thank you, very handy to know this.
Awesome tip, thanks!!
I would add a disclaimer up front that a plug could cause a blowout later and should only be used in a trailer or in case of no alternative such as changing the tire or calling a roadside service to change the tire. Or at least inflate it enough to get to a tire shop. Its not just risking you, it is risking your passengers and total strangers on the road.
Hi, former apprentice mechanic here, string plugs were never intended for long term use, especially in the shoulder/sidewall of the tire
But they still work for years
Before I pull out the reaming tool I pull it out about halfway and coat it with rubber cement and ream the rubber a couple times before I pull it out. This way the plug goes in smoother 😊
I've been using these for years! I always have extra plugs and 2 sets of tools in the storage area of the CRV. In fact, right now I have 2 slow leaks. LOL Both tires on the driver's side.
NEVER Use a cheap plastic handle tool! I did, the handle broke and skewered the palm of my hand. On my FJ Cruiser playlist I have a video of one of the expensive Aluminum handled ones.
And wear gloves
@@Cosmos-xd7nk Back then my hands were tougher than a catchers mitt.
True! And the Safety Seal brand (what I use) is made in the USA, is a better tool, and comes with high-quality plugs.
@@Cosmos-xd7nk Gloves won't help
I never plug a mounted tire. I had a tire where one of the belts had been ripped by the large nail that punctured it and was hanging inside the tire. Had I driven on it, it could have been deadly! Tires should always be dismounted and inspected. A professional will plug AND patch.
So what do you recommend if you're stuck on the side of the road ?
@@Cosmos-xd7nk First they took away the full sized spare. Now they take away the donut. Refuse to buy a car without a spare.
1. You can see a broken belt as the tire will be deformed 2. You can feel a broken belt 3. You can hear a broken belt Plug the tire and take it easy until you are confident that everything is ok
@@mikemainer4679 And wait three hours to show up if you are lucky. Several friends of mine have triple a and after seeing how long it took for them to arrive I decided I don't need them
It works like a charm overtime.
I appreciate this tutorial and tip, wish I had seen it a few months back, lol.
I got a flat tire. I don't know what you guys are all freaking about. It's not a big deal. Only the bottom part of the tire is flat. The rest of it is just fine.
just move the flat spot to the top and it's all good huh? hehehe
@@daveisnothere Exactly! I swear man, some people get their panties in a bunch over nothing.
NO. I work for a major tire manufacturer. Bad idea unless you are stranded. This is not a proper RMA repair for a radial tire. Problems could arise from this. If there is Fix-A-Flat (petroleum based inflation)in the tire, then the reaming action in a steel belted tire could spark an explosion. Second, you could be enlarging the hole or damaging the sidewall since you cannot see the internal damage from a long puncture. Third, any subsequent warranty work for defects would be denied by the tire manufacturer. Would I carry them? Only for my lawn mower or side-by-side's bias ply tires, for which they are intended. Carry a 12-volt inflator and have a tire shop do a proper internal repair. I've seen too many RV's with ripped out plumbing or outer skin damage due to the owner's DIY.
I agree, I’m surprised that for this particular puncture location you didn’t mention that it is way way to close to the sidewall to repair, general rule when I was a tire tech was 1” from the shoulder but that was back in ‘07 so this may have changed
I admit to having done this repair before and been okay, but after I did a little internet research, I realize the risk involved with this kind of DIY repair. My worst fear is a blowout on a freeway at high speed with my kids in the car. Not worth the risk IMO and I'll never cut corners where safety is concerned.
You blew your credibility when you said you work for a tire manufacturer. Obviously you'd want people to replace their tires. The car I drive says to not even repair a tire at all. If you get a nail or something in the tire they want you to replace it with a new tire. C'mon.
@@kickeramps well no, what he said was to properly patch the tire it needs to be dismounted from the rim and correctly patched from the inside with a plug patch (you can look that up if you don’t know what it looks like). Patching from the inside allows you to inspect the inside of the tire to confirm no other damage has occurred. He also state correctly that if you have purchased a tire and it has a road hazard warranty and you plug it like this you are invalidating the warranty and the tire retail no longer has to replace that tire for free. Unless you meant to put a “/s” after you comment.
@@kickeramps I said this was not a proper repair, not that you had to buy a new one. Read the post. C'mon.
Great Video. Thank you for sharing
Very useful video. Thank you.
I have been subscribed and watched your channel for quite some time and learned many valuable things. But this one I have to STRONGLY disagree. I’ve been in the auto repair industry for 42+ years. I can see using a patch/plug for strictly a temporary repair ( I even keep a kit in my own cars )to get to where a safe and proper repair . The whole purpose of patching a tire from the inside is to dismount the tire and inspect it for unseen damage. When a tire is run soft for to long the inner side wall will rub on itself ( think of folding a sponge in half) and wear the inner lining down to the cords. When you see that black powdered rubber in a tire when it’s dismounted that is what’s been happening. Also if the nail or screw is long enough it can be digging into the sidewall each time it rotates, also unseen. Not having a damaged tire inspected from the inside is very unsafe and not worth the risk to your family or others. Keep up the good videos and keep safe. 😊😊
Anyone who plugs a tire without removing, inspecting and patching it from the inside then drives at interstate speeds has the Grim Reaper breathing down the back of their neck and perhaps of other innocent travelers. Please avoid the extremely high risk in order to save a few dollars.
that kind of patch really work good.....i bought one from those bargain stores similar to dollar stores.
Good instructions and I had a nail on my tire exactly on the same spot as the video. I followed all the instructions on the video and on the kit. It worked for about 20 miles of driving and it gave up and I ended up using my dummy tire. PLEASE advise your viewers that if it’s too close to the edges, the tires are compromised and it’s dangerous driving the vehicle and can cause serious injuries or death if the seal doesn’t hold. On a different note, I do enjoy watching your other DIY videos and find it very informative. Even though my family and I wasn’t harmed, it could have been the other way around.
These are meant for temporary emergency repairs. The tire should be removed and a patch applied to the backside. That tire looks pretty close to being spent anyway.
Thank you very much for your time and your awesome video 👍
Great demonstration of this SLIME kit. I used it on a brand new passenger car tire and the tack was in the same place as your screw. It is not considered too close to the shoulder?
Great video. Clear n concise. Thx!
I did this a few time. Work well.