How to Remove Tire Sealant

Remove the valve core, then remove the sealant.

Tire sealant revolutionized flat-tire repair. It is a water-soluble solution that is installed inside bicycle tubes. It is rarely used in car tires because it can cause balance issues at high speeds. It can also cause balance issues in bike tires because of too much volume.



Tire sealant occasionally requires removal. Professionals are required to remove sealant from car tires. The tire needs to be dismounted by machine, sucked out with a vacuum and wiped clean with a cloth. Bicycle tire-sealant can be removed at home.

Things You'll Need

• Valve core remover

Instructions

1. Remove the valve stem cap. Deflate the tire. Take the tire off the bike.

2. Remove the tube from the tire.

3. Insert the valve-core remover into the valve stem. You will feel two forks slip down over the valve stem and lock into the valve core.

4. Turn the valve-core remover counterclockwise with your fingers to remove the valve core. It is small; put it in a safe place.

5. Hold the tube so the valve stem is positioned down into a bucket. Begin rolling the tube into a ball as if it were a tube of toothpaste. Sealant will begin to squirt out of the valve stem. Continue slowly rolling the tube until you reach the valve stem and the tube is empty.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the manufacturer's directions for volume. Install more sealant if desired. Mountain bikes that go off-road frequently should have sealant. For road bikes, sealant is not preferred. You can buy a valve-core remover at any tire store.

References

• Velo News: Tire Sealant FAQ