How to Inflate a Wheelbarrow Tire

The classic wheelbarrow, on sale at Target for $40.

The wheelbarrow is the modern equivalent to an old workhorse on a farm. Its central role to any home-improvement project is known the minute it gets a flat tire, bringing all work to a screeching halt. Often the tire will lose air just sitting around the garage between jobs. For those who can't just toss their wheelbarrow into the back of a truck bed and drive it down for a flat repair, it can be fixed easily with a few short steps.

Things You'll Need

• Crescent wrench Flat head screwdriver

Instructions

How to inflate a wheelbarrow tire

1. Flip your wheelbarrow upside down so the tire is facing up.

2. Using the crescent wrench, or the proper-sized socket from a socket wrench, loosen the two bolts on either side of the metal bracket that covers the wheelbarrow's axle. Loosen both until the metal clamp on one side of the wheel lifts up, freeing the axle. If the metal is embedded into the wood, use the flat screwdriver to pry loose.

3. The tire can now be removed by sliding the axle out of the metal bracket which is still attached to the wood frame.

4. Take only the tire to your nearest gas station or tire repair store (if it needs a repair rather than just more air).

5. Fix the air compressor's gauge over the stem on the wheelbarrow tire. Press the air compressor lever to fill with air. When the tire feels firm, release the air and let the pressure gauge pop out. The line on the gauge will tell you how full it is. The pressure (measured in pounds) should match the recommended pressure inscribed on the tire itself.

6. Once you've returned home, slide the tire back into the first metal clamp. Put the second clamp back over the other end of the axle and tighten the bolts into the wood frame until secure. Flip the wheelbarrow over and get back to work.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have repeated problems with the tire going flat when it's not in use, you likely need a flat repair. You can buy foam sealant and spray directly into the tire, which will often do the trick.

• Be careful not to strip the bolts when removing them.

References

• To fix your own flat tire

Resources

• Red Wheelbarrow Literary Magazine