CS turf sidewall failure

   / CS turf sidewall failure #1  

IH3444

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Joined
Jan 10, 2004
Messages
2,096
Purchased a Kioti CS size tractor just for mowing in 2022. The right-hand side (mower discharge side) rear turf tire has developed a pin hole leak just right in the middle of the side wall. It took a bit of time to discover it, due to it being so tiny. But by spraying soapy water on the tread for about 10 revolutions, then spraying the valve stem, and finally removing wheel and laying on its side to check if it was leaking at the bead/rim by accident discovered the sidewall leak. Since installed a plug, which seems to be holding for now.
Having read on two lawn care forums now that some individuals' state that these Grass Master turf tires have weak sidewalls. Both people stated that they are "junk" in their opinions. The tires are 2 months out of warranty and only have 92 hours on them. They are also used by Kubota on their BX size machines as OE. So, I felt I was safe. Wrong again!
Considering another brand of turf tires. Some say that Carlisle tires aren't what they used to be, but Carlisle does offer both front and rear tires with a 6ply rating. Pricy, but are available. The present Grass Master tires have a 4ply rating.
Other Brands being considered are Kenda, and BTK, although they only have a 4ply rating if I want to stay with basically turf tires.
Appreciate any insight, wisdom, experience with turf tires.
 
Last edited:
   / CS turf sidewall failure
  • Thread Starter
#3  
TFG, I think I have a new tube on the shelf for a 24x12-12 tire, although it may be older. I'll check for it. Thanks for the good advice.
 
   / CS turf sidewall failure #4  
Plugs don't work well on a sidewall. Should have used a patch or patch-plug on the inside. Carlisle is now Carlstar. The tires can be made anywhere but still a good bang for the buck. The last two Carlisle tires I got were the "Super Lug" style and made in Mexico. They still had the Carlisle brand on them.
 
   / CS turf sidewall failure
  • Thread Starter
#5  
Tinhack, the plug is just temporary. I got a tube to install. It is a very high-quality tube manufactured in Taiwan. It is thick and has a very good quality valve on it. I have read about varied quality of tubes on the lawn care sites. What ply rating do you and others think installing this tube will bring the tire rating up to. It is now stated on the sidewall to be a 4-ply tire. Which now seems to be a bit of an overstretch rating from the company. I am hoping it would be about a 6-ply rating after tube installation. I bought a pair, so I'm doing both back tires.
 
   / CS turf sidewall failure #7  
Don't forget the "trick" to installing an inner tube. After the tube and tire are installed on the rim, only inflate to 5-10psi, deflate and repeat using your inflation psi. This allows the tube to conform to the tire and eliminate any folds in the tube.
 

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