How to Remove Rims from Tires

Used tires.

Getting a flat tire out on the road is no day at the beach. If you are lucky enough--or smart enough--to have a spare tire in your trunk, you don't have to worry about the high cost and complications of towing. But eventually you will need to replace the flat tire with a new one. Many mechanics charge anywhere from $10 to $20 just to take the old rubber tire off the rim. You can remove the tire yourself, though, with a few tools and a little time.

Things You'll Need

• Tire wrench Valve stem remover Two crowbars, pry bars or large flathead screwdrivers Piece of wood, approximately 10x4x4 inches Heavy-duty gloves

Instructions

1. Place your car on a jackstand. If the tire is still attached, unscrew the lug nuts with a tire wrench and remove the tire.

2. Lay the tire face up on the ground.

3. Place the valve stem remover over the tire's valve stem. Unscrew and remove the valve stem.

4. Put one foot on each side of the tire. Do not step on the rim. Jump up and down until the tire bead breaks free from the rim. This shouldn't take more than a minute.

5. Place your prying device between the lip of the tire and the rim. Pry the tire's lip over the rim. This may be slow at first, but the more you pry off, the easier the rest will come off.

6. Flip the tire over and place the center of the rim on your block of wood. Push down on opposite sides of the tire with your hands. You may have to use your prying device again, but the tire will come off.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear protective eye gear when working with industrial equipment and tools.

References

• VideoJug.com: Removing a Tire From a Rim