Repair Materials

Since there are several suppliers of fine quality repair materials, this RP does not specifically endorse the use of any one brand or type of repair system. Two types of radial and bias nail hole repair units can be used in the crown area to repair punctures up to 3/8" (10 mm) in diameter. The first type is a two-piece repair unit which consists of a separate repair unit and a cured rubber stem that vulcanizes to the tire. The second type is a combination repair unit consisting of a repair unit that is attached to a cured rubber stem that vulcanizes to the tire. This repair unit cannot be used if the angle of the injury exceeds range of 25°-35°; in relation to a radial tire's belts or a bias tire's breaker plies. The use of either type of repair unit is a matter of personal preference. Provided the angle does not exceed 35°; both types of repairs will provide excellent results in producing a permanent tire repair. A repair unit and vulcanizing rubber stem must be used in all permanent tire repairs. If either a two-piece or a combination patch-plug unit cannot be used due to the angle of the injury, a full section repair is required in bias tires.

A third type of repair, the reinforced shoulder repair, is used to repair a puncture in the shoulder of radial tires that does not exceed 5/16" (8 mm) in diameter. The size of the repair unit is selected so that when the reinforced area of the repair unit is placed over the filled injury (not necessarily centered over the injury), the repair unit's largest reinforcing ply does not end in the flex area (sidewall) of the tire. (See Radial Truck Tires: Reinforced Shoulder Repairs , Figure.)

TMC recommends that users consult repair material suppliers for detailed information regarding their products.

CAUTION: Do not mix products (cements, repair units, etc.) from different repair material manufacturers.

A list of repair material suppliers and their addresses can be found at the end of this RP. Many of these suppliers conduct repair seminars and can provide complete kits of materials and equipment for repairing radial tires.

General Considerations For All Tire Repairs

A thorough inspection must be made by a skilled technician prior to the repair of all tires. Tires should be checked thoroughly on a well-lit spreader both inside and out, with all foreign material and moisture removed from the tire. All repair units in the tire must be determined to be sound and have been properly installed. All tires to be repaired should be stored inside in a dry environment, and should never be exposed to the weather. While there are many types of acceptable repair materials on the market today, never perform a tire repair without removing the tire from the rim/wheel for internal inspection. Do not perform outside in or on-the-wheel tire repairs. Always determine the extent and location of any injury(ies).

WARNING: All required Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)/Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) safety equipment must be used when repairing tires. Adequate ventilation should also be maintained when working with solvents and cements.