How To Fit A Tire
Congratulations! You have purchased a brand new set of tires. When done properly and safely by qualified professionals, fitting new tires to your car’s wheels is easy. This section explains what the process looks like at your local garage or tire shop.
Who Can Fit Tires On A Car?
This could be done by you, objectively speaking. You will need a tire iron and the necessary tools: a tire iron is required, as well as a car jack, stands, jack stands, tire spreader, and an inflator. Even if you have all the necessary tools, it will take much longer to install new tires than a professional. It can be difficult to remove a single tire from a car.
Concerning The Dangers Of Poor Fitting
A poorly fitted tire could cause damage and even burst. A blow-out can cause serious injury and vehicle damage, as well as traffic accidents. It is important to have your tires fitted by an expert technician who will use only approved tools and lubricants.
Take The Wheel Out Of The Vehicle
Step 1. With the engine off, the car should be empty of passengers. The handbrake must be engaged. With a lug wrench, the tire fitter will begin to loosen all four lug nuts. He won’t yet remove them.
Step 2. The car will then be lifted on a hydraulic lift so that all four wheels are off the ground.
Step 3. The fitter will now remove all lug nuts, allowing each wheel to be removed.
Fitting The Tire Onto The Wheel
Step 1. To release the pressure, the fitter will remove the valve insert from the tire. After all, air has been ejected, the fitter will use a special tool called the tire spreader to remove the old tire from its rim. He can move the tire sidewall to clear the rim.
Step 2. The new tire must be the same diameter as the existing rim and should be approved for use on the vehicle. The rims must be in the right size and in perfect condition. They cannot be worn, damaged, or deformed.
Step 3. The tire fitter will use new inner tubes when fitting tube-type tires. This is because tubes can stretch and cause folds in the tubes. A recycled inner tube might also tear. If tubeless tires are being installed, you can also use new valves. The instructions of the vehicle manufacturer should be followed when using rubber valves for tireless tires, also known as snap-in or snap-in. Valve support is required for certain tire specifications. This is either a stopper on a rim or the hubcap that prevents valves from being forced off at high speeds.
Step 4. The fitter will then coat the rim and beads with the appropriate fitting lubricant. He will then use the tire spreader for mounting the tire to the wheel.
Step 5. The next step is to inflate the tire. The wheel must be securely secured to a mounting device for the duration of the stage. It is dangerous to inflate a tire that is not secured. This is something the fitter will know and it’s why he maintains a safe distance from the tire when inflating it.
Step 6. The fitter will adjust the tire pressure until the tires are properly seated on the rim’s shoulder. This will allow the tire to grip the rim’s flanges. The fitting pressure should not exceed 150% of the manufacturer’s maximum pressure or exceed 4.0 bar.
Check The Direction Of Tread Patterns
Directional tires should be rotated in the direction indicated on the sidewall. This rule is only applicable to the temporary use of a spare wheel. Drivers should return to the original fitted position as soon as possible. Asymmetrical tires must be fitted with the sidewall “outside”, on the outside, to ensure optimal results. Attach the wheel to your vehicle
Fitting Tires Costs
You could visit a mechanic or tire dealer to have your tires fitted. The cost will vary depending on what you need. For example, you could purchase new tires at a dealer and have them fitted simultaneously. Your fitter might notice unusual wear on your tires and recommend additional work.
A complete set of wheels and tires is the best and most cost-effective way to go long-term. You can take your complete tire and wheel package to the local garage to make a simple changeover as the seasons change. For a small fee, the garage can even store your alternate set of wheels for you when they’re not in use.
This post was written by Justin K, owner of Wheel Identity. Wheel Identity is Tampa Bay’s premier custom shop. We carry wheel and tire packages for every vehicle, custom suspension kits, and all accessories for the interior or exterior of your vehicle. We only hire highly trained technicians using state-of-the-art equipment with experience in all areas of tire, wheel, suspension, and 4×4 needs.