Flat Tire Slick Fix

[Mark Page]

Went to get my log splitter out of the barn and found a very flat tire, the bead was compltetly broken from the rim. I took it back to the house where my compressor lives. I've had luck in the past by hitting it with a compressor's
full tank and max pressure. Well not this time the tire is too big. I called a farmer buddy up the road as he has some big compressors. He gave me the following advice.
Get a ratchet style tie down strap and put it around the tread. Tighten it up until the tread is flat, then give it a quick shot with the compressor's full tank. A quick blast and the beads popped right out. Don't overdo it or you'll blow out the tire.
I can't believe this worked so well. Gotta' love those old timers, they've been there and done that.

 

[pat32rf]

If doing this on a full size tire, make sure that you release the strap as soon as the bead seats. Didn't do this the first time I tried it and had a 2" nylon strap go off like a gun....

 

[Racer11]

Also taking out the needle valve before you air it up helps to increase the air flow and aids in seating the bead with lots more cfm of air. When the bead pops in place quickly screw the needle valve back in and air it up.

 

[Fixemall]

You can also give it a small shot of starting fluid and hit it with a BBQ lighter, the resulting pop will be enough expansion to put it right back on the bead.

 

[Racer11]

You can also give it a small shot of starting fluid and hit it with a BBQ lighter, the resulting pop will be enough expansion to put it right back on the bead.

I second that fix as well,, I have done that at the race track changing a tire after we had cut one down. And I like pyrotechnics as well.

 

[jonyyuma]

this can fix the stubborn wheelborrow tire too.. just don't over fill, before ignition.

 

[Bird]

Yep, it's an old and common method. I've used it on lawn tractor (riding mower) tires as well.