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How To Use A Tire Repair Kit

Are tire repair kits permanent?

A proper tire repair with a 1-piece repair unit is a permanent fix and the only method approved by Kenwood Tire, the U.S.Tire Manufacturers Association, and the Tire Industry Association.

How does a puncture repair kit work?

How do puncture repair kits work? The kit includes a latex sealant that is forced into the tyre through the valve and a compressor. This runs off the car’s 12-volt power outlet and inflates the tyre. The theory is that the sealant will plug the hole when it’s put under pressure, enabling you to get home.

Are tire repair kits safe?

It isn’t safe and could lead to a dangerous blowout. A plug by itself, or a patch by itself, is not acceptable. But a safer tire repair, done to the RMA standards, can give you thousands of miles more use from your tire. Need your tire repaired by an expert?.

Should you trim tire plug?

You may trim away the excess plug, or leave it to wear away as you drive. Push the plug into the hole. Don’t twist the plug as you push it in, just go straight down and stop when there is about a 1/2-inch exposed. This is what you should see when the plug is installed.

Is a patch better than a plug?

Patches are better than plugs for bigger holes, holes closer to but not the sidewall and holes that aren’t completely straight. Note that if you’re looking to do tire sidewall repair, a patch will usually not cut it and you’ll likely want to replace the tire. Don’t patch your tire if you already have damaged sidewalls.

Are tire patch kits temporary?

The design of tire plugs can vary, but most plug types are temporary and only meant to temporarily fix a punctured or flat. Although they can help temporarily plug the hole to prevent air from escaping, it’s not something that’s going to hold up to the wear of tens of thousands of miles as are seen on most tires.

Do tire patch kits work?

A tire repair kit usually contains a bottle of sealant an air compressor to seal up tiny punctures. When a puncture occurs, the users only need to attach the hose from the sealant bottle to the compressor and tire valve, then voila! It effectively repairs the holes and fills the tire.

Do I need a new tyre after using sealant?

A tyre that’s been repaired with sealant will almost always need replacing, however small the puncture was. There’s likely to be a restriction on how fast and how far you can drive on the repaired tyre. This should be in the instructions but if in doubt, stick to a maximum of 50mph for 50 miles.

How long does it take for a puncture repair kit to dry?

7. Place a patch centred over the puncture. Smooth out and make sure there are no air bubbles. Leave to dry for about 10 minutes.

How long can you drive on a patched tire?

On average, tire experts predict that a proper plug and patch can last from seven to ten years. Although tire patches can last a long time, a tire should never be patched more than once. It can negatively affect the speed rating and potentially cause blowouts.

How fast can you drive on a patched tire?

Once a tire is probably repaired you are able to drive on it safely at any speed limits set in the US. I believe the highest speed limit anywhere in the country is 80 mph.

How long should you wait after plugging a tire?

Both systems require the application of cement which also acts as lubricant to facilitate getting the plug through the tire. For the patch, however, it is recommended to wait at least 5 minutes for the cement to dry to get the best adhesion. Once either system is installed, you can inflate the tire immediately.

How far should a tire plug stick out?

Trim the Plug Let the tire sit for five minutes. Use wire cutters to snip most of the excess off the plug, leaving 1/8 inch or so sticking out.

Can a tire plug cause a blowout?

A plugged tire will blow out if not properly repaired. Plugs are an emergency fix to quickly get you off the side of the road; if you have a compressor. When aired up, tire shop should be the next stop.

Can you patch a tire with 2 nails in it?

If the tire has two punctures, getting a tire repaired may still be an option as long as the punctures are at least 16 inches apart and the maximum number of repairs does not exceed a total of 2 in the tire. Any more punctures than that, and you should consider getting a new tire.

Is it safe to drive on a patched tire?

It is safe to drive on a patched tire regardless of how rugged or rocky the road gets. But if you regularly speed on the highways, it would be best to have the tire(s) replaced. It’s safe to drive on a patched tire as long as you adhere to the recommended speed limit. You can do the patch yourself.