Basics on Truck Repair for Tires

A truck is a mighty machine but even it has its limits. When a tire blows out or falls into disrepair, your truck is no longer functional. Even as strong as these tires are, having thick layers of nylon and rubber, they can only take so much damage and have a low threshold for punctures. Fortunately, if you know the basics of truck repair in Ohio for tires and rims you can restore your truck and hit the road.

General Tips on Flats

The best way to begin fixing a tire on a truck is to remove the wheel. Think back to fixing any other flat tires you may have encountered because these skills will come in handy in this situation. Start out by cranking up the side of the vehicle with a jack. Take out the lug nuts with a lug wrench. Then you’ll be ready to remove the tire. Take a crowbar and pry the tire off the rim by inserting and applying pressure throughout the circumference between the rim and the bead of the tire. The tire will overlap the lip and be ready to be pulled off. Next, locate the point of puncture or tear in the tire. You can better find the hole or tear by applying soapy water; the area where it bubbles means air is being released from the tire. Following this step, take out the tire plug kit, found at most automotive stores. Follow the specific instructions given before you take out the source of the tear or puncture. You can remove glass or nails or whatever the cause of the problem may be through using pliers. Then follow the rest of the instructions of the tire plug kit to seal the hole. Then you may pop the tire back on to the rim and screw it in place.

Fixing a Rim

A problem with a truck tire may not always be that it’s flat. Rims can become cracked or misshapen after extensive wear on the road. To take off the rim for repair, either take it off with a crowbar if you know how or ask a professional to do it. Next, take a propane torch and run the heat over the wheel’s rim for about two to three minutes. Then, get out your hammer and apply forceful blows to the affected area. Reheat and beat the rim several times before you reach the desired shape. When you’ve reached this stage, use a metal file to smooth out the job and apply steel wool to refine it. Then you’re ready to place it back on the truck. Follow these handy tips and you will have achieved truck repair in Ohio for your tires.