How to Repair a Radial Tire Puncture
Radial tires have a ply that goes around the circumference of the tire at a 90-degree radius from the wheel. Plies are rubberized plastic cords that are layered between rubber layers to increase strength and durability of a tire. These tires are designed to give a smoother ride than bias-ply tires.
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Things You'll Need
- Tire repair kit (with plugs, insertion tool and reamer)
- Tire inflator
- Jack and stand
- Tire iron
- Dish soap
Instructions
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1
Raise the punctured tire and wheel and place a jack stand beneath the lower control arm or axle housing, just behind the wheel.
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2
Remove the lug nuts and completely remove the wheel from the vehicle.
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3
Inflate the punctured tire to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Roll the wheel until you locate the tire puncture. Set the puncture straight upward for easier access.
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4
Insert the tire reaming tool into the puncture. Move the reamer back and forth inside the puncture to open the hole.
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5
Insert a tire plug halfway through the pincers on a plug insertion tool. Push the plug through the hole until it is about 1/2 inch outside of the tire. Yank the tool with one quick pull. This causes the pincers to separate and leave the tire plug in the tire.
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6
Mix a cup of water with a tablespoon of liquid dish soap. Pour the mixture over the newly inserted tire plug. If the tire is still leaking, you will see bubbles form around the hole. In this case, insert a second plug directly next to the first plug.
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Tips & Warnings
Never attempt to plug a tire that has been punctured in the sidewall, or within 3/4 inches of the sidewall. This can cause complete tire failure or tire sidewall separation.
References
Resources
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