RA40

iTrader: (6)

What are the thoughts behind these two fixes? I've had tires fixed with patches and plugs but haven't understood which may be preferred or appropriate.

The other day I had the misfortune to find a nail in the tire. While it entered the tread at an angle, it was just enough that the tip did make it through the casing to cause a very-very slow leak.

The wild thought was to shoot that sealer goo into it but I don't want that mess inside.

ChuH

The most recommended method for high performance tire repair is to use combination Cemented One Piece Patch-Plug type repair method. They look like a mushroom with a long stem and flat hat. That patch-plug is pulled through the punctured hole via a wire where the stem plugs the hole and the patch seals it further. As you drive and heat up the tire the stem vulcanize and provide a better seal. You sometimes have to ask for this type of repair. Most tire repair place would either use a simple plug or patch method.

http://www.tireservicecentral.com/Pr...hemicals_5.htm

Chu..

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Ah...interesting, thanks.

The shop that fixed it looks to have used a plug. So far, it seems fine.

mikeyboy

plugs are perfect, will definitly last the life of the tire without a problem.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Thanks!

Of course this happens with a newish set of rubber...less that 3K on them.

ChuH

Sorry but I have to disagree with you on PLUGS are perfect. Everything I read plugs are improper repair method. Best method is still mushroom shaped plug-patch method. For more information please check out the following links.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tirete.../punctures.jsp

http://www.michelinman.com/mastapp/s...t&pclass=2&p=4

http://www.dunloptire.com/care/tireRepair.html

http://www.coopertire.com/us/en/safe...ons.asp#item12

Chu...

damon

I agree with Chu.

How is it possible that a purpose made product combining the best of of the plug & patch is not the best method?

Saw this new fix at the Discount Tire last time I gor a flat fixed. No longer free there, btw.

Lexusfreak

Just courious RA, was the nail in the front or rear tire? About 80% of all flats (caused by a nail or other debris on the road) is in the back tire........as the front tire 'skips' the object up causing it to imbed into the rear tire.