How to Replace a Valve Stem

Tubeless tires have a valve stem seated in the rim of the wheel.

Tire valve stems are used in conjunction with tubeless tires. The valve stem is seated inside the rim and allows the tubeless tire to be inflated. Over time -- due to weather and environmental exposure -- the valve stem can become cracked or develop leaks. Periodic replacement of the valve stem, primarily when the tire is being replaced, significantly reduces the likelihood of pressure loss as a result of leaks. Inspect your valve stems regularly and look for cracks or degraded materials. Replacement of the valve stem can help ensure long life of the tire.

Things You'll Need

• Flat-head screwdriver
• Pliers
• Liquid dish-soap
• Towel

Instructions

1. Determine the pressure requirements of the valve stem. Read the maximum cold pressure stamped on the side of the tire. If the maximum cold tire pressure is 65 pounds per square inch or greater, you will need to install high-pressure valve stems. Typical passenger tires do not require high-pressure valve stems, as the maximum cold pressure operation is between 35 and 55 psi.

2. Remove the wheel from the vehicle. Deflate the tire. Push the tire away from the rim to gain access to the valve stem from inside the rim. Look at the back of the valve stem and determine if any locking or clamping hardware is installed. Remove any hardware used to secure the valve stem to the back of the rim.

3. Pry the edges of the valve stem away from the rim to loosen the valve stem's connection to the rim. A flat-head screwdriver can be used to lift the valve stem from the rim. Do not mar the metal of the rim with the screwdriver, as this will create gaps in any future seals, which may result in leakage.

4. Push the valve stem, with a pair of pliers, from the front of the rim. Grasp the valve stem tightly and push hard to press the valve stem back through the rim. During the extraction, you may need to rotate the valve stem to loosen any bonds to the rim. Discard the old valve stem.

5. Remove any dirt or debris from around the valve stem hole using a mild detergent, such as liquid dish soap, and water. Dry the area with a towel. Inspect the area for particles or contaminants which may result in poor seating of the new valve stem. Re-clean the area if necessary.

6. Lubricate the new valve stem with a small amount of liquid dish soap at the valve stem connection point. The liquid dish soap should not only be applied to the end of the valve stem, but also in the groove which will seat directly against the rim.

7. Push the valve stem through the valve stem hole from the inside of the rim. Grasp the valve stem end with a pair of pliers and pull the valve stem through the rim. You may experience a slight popping sensation as the valve stem seats against the rim. Inspect the inside of the rim to ensure the valve stem is fully inserted and seated against the rim. Twist the valve stem slightly to ensure proper seating. Attach any hardware used to secure the valve stem to the rim. The old hardware detached from the prior valve stem may be used, if it is in good condition.

8. Replace the tire seating against the rim. Inflate the tire to the maximum cold tire pressure. Inspect for leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• If your wheels have a tire pressure monitoring system, or TPMS, installed, you must remove the TPMS before disconnecting the valve stem from the rim. TPMS designs vary. Remove the TPMS according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Failure to install high-pressure valve stems in tires operating under high pressure will result in air leakage from the valve stem.

References

• AA1Car: Tire Valve Stems
• Sunfish Class: Fix-A-Flat