Who plugs tires?

[DarkBlack]

Lots of conflicting info out there.

One search did indeed claim that a plug fix was illegal, but that was an AI generated answer, just like many that claimed the opposite.

The most logical (and non-AI) answers were found by searching "Can a tire repair be illegal". Not that I dug very deep on the subject.

It’s not illegal.
You’re trying too hard, to prove otherwise.
Move on…

 

[Redbug]

I carry one of these kits in every one of my vehicles. Been doing it for 35 years. They also have truck/heavy equipment kits. In my opinion the best plugs and kit on the market: KAB30 - Auto/LT Deluxe Bag - Safety Seal

 

[deserteagle71]

I carry one of these kits in every one of my vehicles. Been doing it for 35 years. They also have truck/heavy equipment kits. In my opinion the best plugs and kit on the market: KAB30 - Auto/LT Deluxe Bag - Safety Seal

I carry something similar in all my rigs. Most of my driving is off pavement so flats are relatively frequent. And why I love TPMS systems. They alert me to a tire losing air; almost always I can stop and plug the tire before it is completely flat and ruined. I also carry an air compressor.

But you have to have a QUALITY plug kit, and quality plugs. Didn't have much luck with the cheap ones!

 

[Redbug]

I carry something similar in all my rigs. Most of my driving is off pavement so flats are relatively frequent. And why I love TPMS systems. They alert me to a tire losing air; almost always I can stop and plug the tire before it is completely flat and ruined. I also carry an air compressor.

But you have to have a QUALITY plug kit, and quality plugs. Didn't have much luck with the cheap ones!

Yes, good air compressors in all the vehicles, too. I made extension cords about 20 feet long that have alligator clips on one end for the air compressors, also.

 

[Grumpycat]

And here I thought it was common knowledge. Guess it's not.

Anyway, tire manufacturers, the DOT, the Tire Industry Association, USTMA, and others have pretty much all agreed on what constitutes a legal repair.

There must be lots of easily obtained information on the subject, but I'm not into spoon feeding so you're on your own for the specifics.

You just lost the argument.

When tire manufacturers say anything about repair they state a reduced speed limit and reduction in load carrying capacity.

 

[CliffordK]

Patch inside is best but when applying plug one must understand the plug in hole is not holding air, it is the part that folds over the inside surface of tire that holds air. Tread rubber is not formulated to hold air, only the thin innermost coating of rubber holds air.

When inserting plug try to form a knot inside to contact the inside surface of the tire.

Interesting. I hadn't really thought about that much. I've used the rope plugs quite a bit, generally successfully, unless there is a large gouge. Or, of course, with tube tires.

There is a type of mushroom plug with a couple of different applicators. This is a screw in applicator, but there are also gun type applicators.

Perhaps a bit more complex than the rope applicators. However, one is left with a good mushroom on the inside.

 

[ray66v]

A rule is not a law.

Just like the rule that says, when the tire shop is putting on two new tires, they must go on the back of the vehicle. It's not the law.

In order for it to be law, it must be codified, (listed in to official resources), so it can be found by the public.

These rules are no doubt driven by legal departments, after having to pay legal settlements. Selling more tires as a result is just a convenient bonus for them.

 

[Eagle1]

A rule is not a law.

Just like the rule that says, when the tire shop is putting on two new tires, they must go on the back of the vehicle. It's not the law.

In order for it to be law, it must be codified, (listed in to official resources), so it can be found by the public.

These rules are no doubt driven by legal departments, after having to pay legal settlements. Selling more tires as a result is just a convenient bonus for them.

Since your steering and 70+% of the braking is on the front of a vehicle this does not make sense to me.....YMMV

 

[ray66v]

Since your steering and 70+% of the braking is on the front of a vehicle this does not make sense to me.....YMMV

The idea behind it is, with tread on the back you are more likely to maintain directional control.

Keep in mind, there are people who don't know how to drive.

I buy tires two at a time. I take the tires off, and drop them off, so I don't have to argue.

When I get them home, I put the new ones on the front for the winter, and I move them to the back for the summer. This gives me the most tread for traction and steering in the deep snow, and the least wear on the new tires, during the summer.

 

[Eagle1]

The idea behind it is, with tread on the back you are more likely to maintain directional control.

Keep in mind, there are people who don't know how to drive.

I buy tires two at a time. I take the tires off, and drop them off, so I don't have to argue.

When I get them home, I put the new ones on the front for the winter, and I move them to the back for the summer. This gives me the most tread for traction and steering in the deep snow, and the least wear on the new tires, during the summer.

Being that most vehicles are FWD these days it makes even less sense.
Putting new tires on the axle that does not steer, brake or drive is a not a winner.

Guess I have mounted my own tires for so long I'm out of touch with the insanity of people