An unexpected flat tire can ruin your day. It takes time to change the tire and put a spare. The worst-case scenario is when you don’t have a spare to replace your flat tire.
When that happens you need to call someone who offers a mobile flat tire repair service or have your car towed. But what happens to the tire that has been punctured?
Is it still savable and can it still be repaired? What do you need to know to repair it yourself?
Read below to find out more…
Tire Repair
There are different ways on how to repair a tire. The first method is to use plugs to repair the holes in the thread of the tire. This can only be done when the puncture is small enough for the plug to seal the leak. This also works great for sealing the exterior of the tire and not the inner lining. Many like this method because it is a quick fix. It is easy to do, inexpensive yet still effective.
Another way to repair the tire is to seal it. Seals are usually used inside the tire and can only be done if the tires are dismounted. Many find the seal more effective than the plugs but they cannot be used to repair the threads or outside of the tires.
Some also use a combination of using a sealant and a plug. When this is used, the tire needs to be dismounted too. A plug with a seal is used and pushed through the thread from the inside out. The seal helps make sure that the plug stays in place making it more durable and effective than only using a seal or plug.
Whenever you want to have your tire repaired. Make sure to dismount it so that the repairman can thoroughly check it inside and outside. No matter what kind of repair you opt for, you should first have your tires assessed by a trustworthy mechanic.
The Effect Of Repairs On Tires
A damaged tire, even when it is repaired wouldn’t be as good as those that were not damaged especially at high speeds. This doesn’t mean that the tire cannot be used for high speeds. Rather, this means that it is more likely to encounter problems when used at high speeds.
Issues that you might encounter include a tire leaking air, water penetrating the tire and causing rust. If the tire is properly repaired, then it is less likely or such things to happen. That is why you should always carefully choose the mechanic who repairs your tires.
In case the repairman sees that the tires are beyond repair, it is best to let the tires go and trust their opinion. You wouldn’t want to risk your life just because you want to save on tires.
The Irreparable Tires
There are a few things that would make the tires irreparable. One of them is if the damage to the tires are found on the outer rims of the tread. Most mechanics will tell you that any damage that at a distance of ¼ inch from the edge of the tread will be considered irreparable.
Similarly, a puncture size larger than ¼ inch would also be considered as irreparable. Mechanics also consider the thickness of the tire tread. When it is too thin, they will recommend a replacement rather than a repair.
Thanks for reading!
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