fixing a flat on run-flat
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Driver
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 134
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From: pa
fixing a flat on run-flat
Can anyone tell me if a run-flat tire's flat is to be fixed a different way from regular tires? I think I have run-flats on my car.... they are dunlop 5000 something something. I had a small nail towards the edge of the tire on the tread, and when I took it to my regular mechanic he told me i'd have to take it somewhere else where they would fix it from inside out. Took the thing to monro/speedy's, and they said the nail was too close to the edge and was against company policy, and to go to a gas station for a plug.
so i went to the sunoco gas station and the guy put a plug in it for me in 3 min and charged me $18.
so i went to the sunoco gas station and the guy put a plug in it for me in 3 min and charged me $18.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 8,804
Likes: 139
From: MA
The problem with plugs, especially when they are close to the edge, is that you run the risk of the plug flying out at high speed or when the tire expends due to heat increasing pressure inside your tire. I usually do a plug and a patch together, sometimes just a patch. I would replace that tire if I were you.
at my shop i charge around $5 to $7 for plugs but dont recomend it unless the customer insist. Take it to a custom wheel shop that fixes flats. They should have the right tire machine to dismount a run-flat without damaging your wheel. You can have them patch it or plug patch if you choose. If they know what there doing the patch should be guaranteed and last without a problem. We patch 10 to 20 tires a day and have been in bussiness for 28 years so i kinda know a little about patches and plugs. Also we charge anywhere from $15 to $20 for 18" wheels.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 8,804
Likes: 139
From: MA
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if its that far in, it should be ok to patch/plug. if your getting close to the sidewall though like others have said, you really should get a new tire for your safety and the safety of others driving next to you.
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Joined: Oct 2008
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From: tx
Sounds like you're a tire guy. I'm all for patches too, but sometimes I don't have time and plug away... care to guess how many times you've seen a plug come out (out of the ~10 per day x 28 years = ****** loads)?
- Is it more prone for particular repair types (larger holes, etc.)?
- Do you use cement with your plugs or just a dry plug?
Thread Starter
Driver
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 134
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From: pa
i think i have a good 80% left on the tires....so got a long way to go. also don't want to replace these tires with the same model next time - they're too expensive. just want regular tires < $200 each or something....
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truenoboy
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Jan 13, 2009 05:52 PM
