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How To Put Tires On Rims (With and Without a Machine)

Are you a first-time car owner that doesn’t know the difference between a lug nut and a hubcap? Do you feel completely overwhelmed by the thought of changing a tire? No need to fear – putting tires on rims is simpler than it looks, and we’re here to help.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into all aspects of how to put tires on rims so that you can tackle any challenge with confidence. Get ready for an informative yet straightforward guide and your new “how-to” skill set!

Method 1: Using a Tire Mounting Machine

How-To-Put-Tires-On-Rims (2)
How-To-Put-Tires-On-Rims (2)

1. Lubricate the bead and rim edge

Whether you’re a professional mechanic or just someone looking to change a tire at home, using a high-quality tire lubricant can help make the job easier and more efficient.

Don’t be tempted to use dish soap or automotive grease, as these may not provide enough lubrication and could potentially damage your wheel. Instead, pick up a bottle of tire lubricant from your local auto parts store and apply it liberally to the inner lip of the tire and outer edge of the rim.

Related: How Long Do Rotors Last?

2. Install the valve stem

One crucial step in the process involves installing the valve stem. This small piece plays a big role in inflating the tire once it’s mounted onto the rim. It’s easy to install- simply locate the hole on the interior of the rim and insert the valve stem from the inside so it pokes out through the outside.

Pull it through with a pair of pliers until it’s firmly in place. Adding lubricant to the valve stem beforehand can also help.

3. Place the rim on the tire machine

Place the rim on the machine facing up and engage the hydraulic press by pressing the associated pedal. Don’t forget to rotate the rim with the other pedal, if applicable.

If you’re unsure about the process or your machine, refer to the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for guidance.

4. Slide the tire over the rim on an angle

Create a 45-degree angle by making sure that the bottom edge of the tire is lower than the top edge of the rim on one side. Start with one bead beneath the rim’s edge and ensure that there is enough space for the mounting arm to be slid into the gap created by the angle.

5. Lowering Mounting Arm onto Rim’s Edge

This allows for the arm to serve as a pry bar to force the rest of the tire over the lip of the rim. It’s important to position the arm in the same spot where the tire has already angled to get past the edge.

If you encounter difficulty getting the arm in at that spot, simply readjust the tire to give yourself more room.

6. Angle the tire so the lower bead is aimed at the mounting arm

Aim the lower bead at the mounting arm and adjust the tire if necessary. Paying attention to the angle helps the mounting arm press the lip down past the rim’s edge as it rotates.

While the tire’s natural position on the rim is usually spot on, it’s always best to check and ensure proper placement. If the tire falls off the rim, it’s an indication that the angle is not correct, so take the time to adjust it properly.

7. Rotating the Rim and Tire with the Pedal

As they spin, use the mounting arm to force the bottom bead of the tire over the rim’s top edge. Don’t stop until they complete one full circle and the tire’s bottom bead is entirely past the top lip of the rim.

It may appear as though the tire is only halfway mounted, but that’s okay. The top bead is what holds it in place, preventing it from fully setting onto the wheel.

8. Repositioning the Mounting Arm

Repositioning the mounting arm is an important step that can make or break the process. Guiding the tire’s upper lip onto the rim will require some effort, and using your hands to press one side of the tire down is a good starting point.

Once you’ve created some space, lower the mounting arm onto the rim’s edge, making sure it sits at the right angle. Depending on the tire’s size and shape, you may need to use a pry bar to get it into the right position.

9. Press the pedal to rotate the tire and rim again

Pressing the pedal to rotate the tire and rim may seem like a strange technique, but it’s an effective one. As the wheel and tire rotate, the mounting arm will force the tire’s upper bead down over the lip of the rim.

In just one full circle, both the upper and lower beads of the tire will have passed the rim’s upper lip. It’s important to take your time during this step to ensure the tire is securely mounted.

10. Inflate the tire with an air compressor

The last step in the process is inflating the tire with an air compressor. This may seem like a simple step, but it’s important to be cautious. Before turning on the compressor, make sure your hands and clothing are clear of the tire to avoid getting pinched as the tire expands.

Once the flow of air begins, the tire will rapidly inflate to the proper air pressure. With this step complete, your newly mounted tire is ready for the road

Related: How Much Does It Cost To Patch A Tire?

Method 2: Manually Mounting Tires (without machine)

How-To-Put-Tires-On-Rims (1)
How-To-Put-Tires-On-Rims (1)

Related: How long does it take to change a tire?

1. Installing and Seating the Valve Stem in the Rim

If you don’t have access to a tire changing machine, there are still ways to successfully mount your tires onto rims. The first step is to ensure that there is a valve stem in place. If there isn’t, lubricate the area and carefully insert the stem. The next step is to make sure the stem is securely in place by pulling it outward until it’s snugly seated in the rim hole.

2. Applying Tire Lubricant for Hand-Mounting Tires

Tire lubricant helps reduce friction between the rim and tire, making it easier to mount them manually. Apply the lubricant along both the inner and outer beads of the tire. This will facilitate manual mounting and make it significantly easier to get the tire onto the rim.

Once you’ve applied enough lubricant, slide one side of the tire onto the rim and work your way around until you reach its starting point. You’ll want to use your hands or a rubber mallet to press it into place as evenly as possible.

3. Lay the rim flat on the ground and place the tire on top of it

To avoid any scratches on your wheel, place a piece of cardboard beneath the rim if you are working on a hard surface.

It’s important to ensure that the surface you work on is flat, level, and secure. With the tire resting on top of the rim, ensure it is sitting flat and snug against the rim’s upper lip.

4. Pressing the Lower Lip of the Tire onto the Rim

Step on the tire with both feet to press the lower lip onto the rim. Have your friend lend a hand for balance as you step up onto the tire on one side and then bring your other foot up to apply pressure on the other side. The key is to force the bottom bead of the tire down over the top lip of the rim, which may require some hopping and downward force.

5. Applying Lubricant to the Upper Bead of the Tire and Rim

One of the most challenging aspects is getting the upper bead to seat properly on the rim. This is where lubricant comes in handy. By applying more lubricant to the upper bead and rim, you can help to maneuver the rubber down and over the metal with ease.

While the lower bead won’t require any extra lubrication, it’s essential to ensure you have plenty on hand for the upper section of the tire.

6. Lower the Upper Lip of the Tire onto the Rim

This may seem simple enough, but it’s crucial to angle the tire correctly so that one part of the upper bead is below the rim’s edge. If the tire doesn’t quite make it past the lip on its own, don’t worry. You can press down on the lower portion of the tire or even use a pry bar to create the necessary gap. Just make sure to keep the pry bar in place once you’re done.

7. Using a Pry Bar to Mount the Tire onto the Rim

Be sure to move around the wheel, pressing down onto the tire with your hands and using the pry bar to guide the bead over the upper lip of the rim. It’s important to be careful and avoid scratching any visible metal on the rim.

By the time you make it all the way around the wheel once, both the tire’s upper and lower beads should be completely past the rim’s lip.

8. Inflate the tire with an air compressor

Once the tire is securely mounted on the rim, it’s time to add some air. But not just any air compressor will do. It’s important to ensure that you have an air compressor that can properly inflate your tire. As you add air, be sure to keep a close eye on the pressure gauge so you can reach the correct PSI for your vehicle.

But safety should always come first. Be sure to stay clear of the tire bead as it inflates, keeping your fingers and clothing out of harm’s way.

 

FAQs about How To Put Tires On Rims

What is the easiest way to put a tire on a rim?

One of the easiest methods for putting a tire on a rim is to use tire lubricant. By spraying the lubricant onto the inner lip of the tire and the outer edge of the rim, you can create a slick surface that makes it easier to seat the tire on the rim. If you don’t have a spray bottle of lubricant, you can also apply it using a cloth or wooden dowel.

How long does it take to put tires on rims?

On average, a mechanic can put a full set of tires on rims in just 40 minutes. That’s only 10 minutes per wheel! Of course, there may be additional checks and adjustments necessary, like an alignment and balance check, which can add another 45 minutes to the job. To be on the safe side, it’s always best to give yourself at least an hour when heading to a tire installation appointment.

Related: How long does an alignment take

Can you put tires on rims yourself?

Yes, it is possible to put tires on rims yourself but only with the right tools and safety precautions. To properly mount a tire and rim, you will need a rubber mallet, pry bar, lubricant and an air compressor. Make sure to use caution as you work with these tools to avoid any potential injuries.

How is a tire installed on a rim?

A tire is installed on a rim by first ensuring that the rim is in good condition and free of any debris. Once it has been inspected, the lower lip of the tire should then be pressed onto the rim using your feet and hands while keeping your body weight balanced.

Next, lubricant should be applied to both the upper bead of the tire and the rim to allow for easy maneuvering. Finally, the upper lip of the tire should be pressed onto the rim using a pry bar if needed. Once both beads have been seated securely on the rim, it can then be inflated with an air compressor to reach the desired pressure.

Conclusion

Our goal was to provide you with all of the information necessary for how to put tires on rims. We discussed using a machine and also doing it by hand in this blog post. It’s important to remember that if you’re not confident or comfortable doing this task, it’s likely best to seek professional help.

With all these tips provided, we hope you are now feeling fully equipped to handle putting tires on your rims with success.

1 thought on “How To Put Tires On Rims (With and Without a Machine)”

  1. Title: Tips for Installing Tires on New Rims

    Hello everyone,

    I recently ordered new alloy rims for my car and I am planning to remove the tires from my old rims and install them on the new ones myself. I would greatly appreciate any advice or suggestions you have regarding this process.

    Here are a few specific questions I have:

    Are there any special tools or equipment that I will need for this task?

    What should I be aware of in terms of the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) during the installation?

    After completing the installation, is it necessary to have my wheels professionally balanced?

    Thank you in advance for your help and guidance!

    Reply

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