Re: Got my first flat on the '29 last night - anybody got experience changing the tubes?

Posted by Gar On 2021/10/7 12:34:23

Good Luck.

You need to be VERY careful working with the widow makers... The process is actually pretty simple but can be dangerous.

1- Lay the tire flat on the ground
2- Remove all of the air out of the tire (i am sure the flat did that for you) and pull out the center of the valve stem.
3- Pry off the split rim by using flat bladed tools (I use two tools designed only for this purpose-- think large regular slotted screw driver with the corners ground into a curve)
4- Carefully pry from the split one way all the way around the tire. It may be difficult as some rust on the ring have bonded to the rim
5- With the ring removed you should be able to remove the tube and check for internal issues. I always check my rim, flap and inside of the tire with a soft cloth that will snag easily (I use a set of my wife's panty hose- just don't tell her)
6- Insert the tube and add a FEW pounds of air to it. I make sure the tube is seated correctly and the valve stem is aligned properly.
7- Remove the value stems inside valve again, ensure the tire is seated correctly on the rim and install the split rim ring. It should snap in reasonably easily with the assistance of a rubber mallet.
8- Reinstall the inside of the vale stem and add a FEW pounds of air. I hit the entire outside wall of the tire with the mallet and ring to ensure the ring and tire are seated correctly and there is even spacing around the ring and the tire.
9- Use an air pressure gauge on your air compressor hose that will clamp on the the end of the valve stem without you having to hold it.

10- While using the clamp on air gauge...use a tire cage and inflate the tire to about 20 lbs. Assuming you need about 60 lbs of air pressure... verify that the tire and ring have not moved and add another 10 lbs. I use a dead blow hammer and beat the side wall with the hammer while in the tire cage. If the tire and ring still have not moved, I bring it up to operating pressure.

Install the tire and enjoy your ride.
Best of luck.

NOTE:
If you don't have access to a tire cage, you can make something that will stop the split ring from shooting off the tire and decapitating someone.

Using a clamp on air gauge is a must.