Change your own tires cheap and easy.

[jimmymac]

It's been awhile since I've posted this, so after some prodding from JeffS, I'll repost it. Changing your own tires is easy and cheap. It just takes some practice and elbow grease.



Get a valve core removal tool and remove the core. Pssssssssssssss



Go to a local auto or truck shop and source a 25 gallon drum. They've probably got a couple laying around that they'll give ya.




Lay junk t-shirts or rags around the rim to avoid scratching the rim. The barrel also protects the rotors from being damaged.






Go to a tool store or hardware store and buy a good quality wood clamp. Make sure it's long enough to fit the back wheel.








I wrap the end of the vice with black tape to avoid scratching the rim. Put the bottom side on the rim, and the top side at the bead.


Start cranking down, and use a tire Iron to assist if needed. It'll break the bead loose with practice and the right position.


Repeat for the other side.


Buy some rim protectors from the internet or your local bike shop. They're cheap.


Fit them like so. Make sure the beads are loose all the way around.
Then I mix up some laundry soap and water for lube.



Get the bead wet all the way around.

[jimmymac]

Get some tire irons, "spoons" and start spooning the tire over the rim.




I use a big screwdriver to keep the tire in place while I get my next section.


Then flip the tire over and lube the bead. Normally it will push off with no tools. Keep the opposite side of the tire in the center of the rim from the side you're pushing over the lip.


I used to always change the valve stem, but it's a waste of time if it's in good shape.





Lube up the new tire bead, paying attention to the direction of the arrows for proper rotation.



The first bead should push right on with no tools, with some practice. Push it over with a spoon if need be. It should only take one if it's a worst case scene.

[jimmymac]

The second bead might take 2 prys, just make sure your spoon is properly placed to avoid scratching the rim. You'll get a ding every once in awhile, but the money you save is worth it. I could have some brand new carbon fiber wheels with the money I've saved.






Fill it up while the beads are still wet. A small air pump will work in a pinch. They're not like car tires that need a big burst of air.



Install the valve core and set the pressure. You'll hear a pop from each bead as they fully seat.

Line the dot up with the valve stem for the closest balance point.



I'll post how to balance the tires soon if there's interest. It involves two chairs and the axle.


Have fun, and feel free to ask questions.

[Danno]

What was that blue stuff you were drinking?

[zzrbuddy]

Awesome write up Jman!!


Ur the shiznit! I'v got front and rear that need changed....Looks like ur the pro to go!

[JeffS]

Nice!!!!

[Silver]

Great write up Jimmy! One added bit of info. I use 2 clamps...seems to make breaking the bead easier for me.

[laurenoe]

Nice.

[jwb.ihm]

Who's the stud with the red hair in the picture?

[quickaw]

the striped boxers ad alot to the thread is that the proper attire to change a tire