Checking for Tire Leaks

[Iplayfarmer]

I need some more ideas for checking tire leaks. I've always used a cup of soapy water and a paint brush. However, I have a garden cart/trailer for which this isn't working. I've been all around the tire and found no leaks, but every time I air it up it's flat again the next time I go to use it. I have checked the bead and the valve too.

What's the best mix ratio for using soapy water? Is there a better way to apply it besides a paint brush? Are there other methods that work as good or better?

I know about dunking the tire in a tank, but I'm looking for something that I can do while the tire is still on the vehicle.

 

[MikesTractor]

I found that the bubble solution like kids use to blow bubbles works pretty good. You can find it in gallon jugs at Walmart. I use a spray bottle to put it on.

It's a little thicker than soapy water and doesn't run off as fast.

Mike

 

[woodchuckie]

I always over inflate the tire to make it easier to find the leak. I had a leak on a cheap china quad tire that I could not find. I finally spotted several leaks in the tread. The bubbles were so tiny it looked like bubbles just laying there but when I put my glasses on I could see them coming out.

 

[TCBoomer]

Glass cleaner in a can...the foam kind. Works like charm and finds the smallest leaks. Foam doesn't last but maybe 30 sec or so but you can just spray it again. It's all I use now when searching for leaks

 

[Egon]

Just put some slime in the tire!

 

[Iplayfarmer]

Just put some slime in the tire!

I'm about there on this particular tire. I do have plenty of occasions to find and repair tire leaks, though. TBN has me so interested in tractors, etc. that I'm now buying and fixing small garden tractors and lawn mowers as a sideline hobby. Flat tires are a common occurance.

 

[newbury]

Just put some slime in the tire!

I busted bead on my right rear. When I hooked it back up I slimed all 4.
Lo and behold, about 4 months later when I returned from a long trip (the tractor hadn't been driven for weeks) there were two tiny puddles of green on the top. Looked like slime in action.

 

[sandman2234]

Looks like my suggestion, as I read the first post, has already been suggested, several times. A couple pumps of that green stuff, a few minutes cleaning up your mess and your done.
David from jax

 

[Soundguy]

remove tire and submerge in a tub.. if it leaks.. it will make bubbles..

soundguy

 

[Qapla]

If you want to use the "tub method" while the tire is still on the tractor, use a deep puddle - even if you have to make the puddle.

The exact location of the leak may not be visible, but the existance and general location of the leak will be visible. Then you know where to look with the soap.