Flat Front Tire

garbageman · Mar 14, 2004

I got my first flat tire today. A nail while cleaning out the barn. Are their any good/bad ways to repair it. Any advice would be helpfull.
Thanks,
Ray

Bird · Mar 14, 2004

Ray, for many years, I insisted on patches on the inside of the tire; however, enough tire dealers using plugs, and the difference in the modern plugs vs. the original ones 45 years ago, finally convinced me. It's certainly not a bad idea to remove the tire, patch it from the inside, remount it, etc., but personally, I'd just get a good plug kit, plug the hole, and be done with it. I've used the plugs on my pickup, tractor, and riding mower and never had one fail.

Soundguy · Mar 14, 2004

You didn't mention if this was a tube or tubeless tire ( tractor or truck? )
If it is a tractor tire with a tube.. you'll have to remove the tube.. patch it, and then reinstall. Wouldn't hurt to stick a small patch on the inside of the tire casing where the nail came thru.. in case of rough edges.. etc. They can abraid or pinch the tube..

TSC sells decent patch kits. Depending on the price of the patch kit.. may be cheaper to get a new tube...

Soundguy

Inspector507 · Mar 14, 2004

I haven't had a flat on the tractor yet........now that I said THAT ....... /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif
When the rider got a flat I used the locally available repair kits from the auto parts store. You get the reamer, the glue, the plug all in one kit. It has worked for years on that machine.

Bird · Mar 14, 2004

( If it is a tractor tire with a tube.. you'll have to remove the tube )

Yep, I just plain overlooked that; wasn't thinking. /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

Henro · Mar 14, 2004

Just a thought, but I had my front tires foam filled shortly after I got my tractor and got my first flat when cleaning up an area with a lot of broken glass.

I am glad I did and would do it again. Not real cheap, something like $140 for the pair, with the sales tax included. That was on my B2910. They charge by tire size, smaller being cheaper.

It is nice not having to worry about a flat, and the associated hassels. I am sure Bird is right about the plugs in a tubeless tire, but I still prefer a patch on the inside of a tractor tire...so that means I would lose a couple hours for each flat.

I'm a happy "foam-filled camper" in for ways than one! /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

PineRidge · Mar 14, 2004

Ray after you get your tire repaired you may want to throw some Slime or Multi Seal in your tires to prevent flats in the future. I call it "flat insurance".

garbageman · Mar 15, 2004

Thanks for the quick advice. I need to fix it today before tomorrows snow storm.

NIXON · Mar 15, 2004

I need to fix it today before tomorrows snow storm.
)

You HAD to bring that up didn't you ? /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif
I just put my tooth bar on the Fel ,and side plates back on my rear blade in preparation for Spring . John

PineRidge · Mar 15, 2004

Well evidentially you guys are sending that nasty stuff this way because the weather man just said a possible 6 inches of snow by midday tomorrow. Right!, my TC-40D is still in the shop. Thanks allot guys /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

NIXON · Mar 15, 2004

Mike . The weather is coming from the WEST ! Looks like your sending it to US ! You can keep my share . Maybe if you talk to your dealer you can get your machine back quick . If not , you can use my Craftsman lawn tractor with 42' blade . /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif Just promise me you'll burn it when your done !!
OR!!!! Henro has a spare machine he keeps around for emergencies /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif John

Junkman · Mar 15, 2004

this time of the year, it is a mistake to move the snow. It will melt faster if you leave it where it falls. The rest of the week is supposed to be warm. If you pile it up, it will take longer to melt. God put it there, let God take it away. For those that are atheists, Mother Nature put it there, Let Mother Nature take it away.

PineRidge · Mar 15, 2004

Mike . The weather is coming from the WEST ! Looks like your sending it to US ! You can keep my share . Maybe if you talk to your dealer you can get your machine back quick . If not , you can use my Craftsman lawn tractor with 42' blade . Just promise me you'll burn it when your done !!
OR!!!! Henro has a spare machine he keeps around for emergencies John 

John I really think it's Indiana sending the foul stuff our way. Ohio almost always sees the crap of the weather although we missed a lot of the deep stuff this winter.

Anyway the good news is my dealer just called and he's headed this way with my rig. If we get dumped on tomorrow at least I'll be able to deal with it. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

NIXON · Mar 15, 2004

Junk man . Sound advice ! But I've got to use my tractor to justify it !

I'll just turn the blade backwards and knock off the first 4-6 inches of snow .
Mike .it's good to hear you'll have your machine back !
That craftsman mower will still be available if you need something to add to a burn pile ! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif John

JJT · Mar 15, 2004

Junkman, I agree with leaving it alone if you get a few inches, but this ones dropping 12-16" on our area. Over 8" and I 've got to snow blow or we don't go to work.....

centex · Mar 15, 2004

I am sure this is a dumb question but I assume when you say the tires are filled with foam that this is a hardening foam like urethane foam. If so, what do you do when the tires wear out? I have worn mine out already so I would hate to have to buy new wheels in addition to tires.

Junkman · Mar 15, 2004

You get out the saws-all and start cutting and then you start scrapping. The rims aren't ruined, but it does take some time to clean them enough to install new tires. I don't know if it is possible to install tubes before foaming tires, but if it is, it would make installation of new tires much easier later on. It would be an interesting question to ask the installer if you are considering this option.

keeney · Mar 16, 2004

Plugs work great as long as the leak is in the main tread area and its a small, round hole like from a nail.

A cut or irregular gash will likely require a patch on the inside.

Any significant damage to the sidewall is probably best repaired with a new tire or maybe by adding a tube.

In a snow emergency, assuming the leak is slow enough - maybe leave the nail in and inflate just prior use and as needed during use.

- Rick

Soundguy · Mar 16, 2004

( ( If it is a tractor tire with a tube.. you'll have to remove the tube )
Yep, I just plain overlooked that; wasn't thinking. )

I've seen both types fronts.. both with and without tubes. Just thought I would mention it. I figured we tag-teamed it. You took the first half.. I came in for the second /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

Soundguy