Selecting the Right Tire valves

Selecting the Right Tire valves

Metal clamp-in style valve stems come in different sizes and lengths to fit nearly any type of wheel manufactured today, but one of the most popular clamp-in valve stems for wheels with a .453-inch stem hole is the TR416S. This can be a long-life valve stem because both the sealing grommet and valve core are replaceable if they become damaged or aged.

Care should be exercised when installing the clamp-in valve as each has a specific recommended torque for tightening the nut. For instance, the TR416S has a recommended torque of 24-45 in/lbs.

A good way to get a feel for the right torque is to mount the stem in a wheel and tighten it to the specified value with a torque wrench. Then loosen and retighten it by hand with a hand wrench, and check it with a torque wrench. After repeating this procedure several times, you’ll get very close to achieving the proper torque without excessively over- or under-torquing the nut.

Check Hole Specifications

If you follow procedures according to industry standards and still have problems losing air through the stem hole, check the specifications for the stem hole in the wheel, including the prementioned thickness limitations. For example, in some cases wheels with a .453-inch stem hole may not have a large enough coined or machined area around the stem hole. On this type of wheel, the coined area must be a minimum of .125 inches greater in diameter than the valve hole. Complete information on specifications can be found in the Tire & Rim Association Yearbook or from your suppliers.

Never assume that the stem on the tire/wheel assembly you are servicing for a customer is the proper stem. Installing the proper stem can be as important as matching the wheel components on a multi-piece wheel.

Tell your customers that no matter what type of stem they use, there is an air pressure gauge to fit it. It’s a good idea to teach them how to use a tire gauge properly and explain why it is important.