How to Remove a Tire from a Rim

Sometimes we decide to learn something new to cope with the difficulties that arise on our own and avoid expensive auto repair shops. Removing a tire from a rim is just one of those activities that are highly recommended to learn.

The reasons for this can be different. Sometimes you just want a new experience, and sometimes you urgently need a tire change while traveling. And in this case, the auto repair shop may be too far away.

However, the change requires care and accuracy to avoid rim bending. In this article, we’ll tell you how to do this without the help of specialists.

Here they are:

1. Wrench
2. 3 tire irons
3. Oil/ Lubricant/ Dish Soap
4. Tire jack
5. Core removal tool
6. Tire bead breaker
7. Screwdrivers
8. Tire removal equipment

How should you proceed? Step by step

1. Define the territory

Don’t change tires in the middle of the road creating difficulties for other drivers. Even if you find yourself in such a situation, try to clear the roadway and protect yourself from passing cars.

2. Deflate the tires

Simply unscrew the valve cap and allow the tires to bleed out for a while. Then remove them and place in a comfortable position for further manipulations.

3. Slide the tire off the rim

The problem is that these two parts are always connected with very dense glue and sealant, so you may not be able to cope with it by force alone.

After you’ve sprayed soapy water all over the rim diameter, take a flat-blade screwdriver and try to make a spot where it can penetrate by lifting the rubber up. Make the hole as large as possible with a screwdriver.

Then place the wheel on its edge and slide it back and forth on the ground until the rubber comes off the rim. This way you may spend less effort, but achieve the goal fastest, even when you have a minimum of tools.

4. Repeat the same on the other side

You need to make as many gaps as possible between the tire and the rim, so a screwdriver is your best assistant.

5. Replacing the tire

Now when the defective tire has been removed, you can put it in the trunk of your car and install a spare tire. So, you need to do the opposite with the rim. Try not to apply too much force to avoid bending the construction.

6. Use oil

Or the same soapy water, although it’s less effective. To make the new tire fit easily on the rim, its edges should be lubricated with oil or other liquid. Then pull the tire edges onto the rim again using a screwdriver. Flip the tire on its edge and twist it several times to fit the rim securely inside. Do the same for the reverse side.

So, this is not a beginner’s activity, and you should practice your tires a few times before you set out on the road. You should be careful with tools to avoid getting hurt, and also don’t put your fingers inside the splint, because they can be painfully pinched.

FAQ

How long does it take to replace?

An experienced driver can change a tire per one 20 minutes.

Why can’t you cut the tire?

You can cut it open if it’s old and unusable. However, if you caught a nail in the rubber along the way, you shouldn’t say goodbye to the item. The tire can be repaired later at the auto repair shop if the hole isn’t too big.

What if the rim is bent?

This is a bad story. We don’t recommend continuing the replacement yourself, it’s better to wait for the help of a specialist. If this isn’t possible, contact the drivers passing by.

So now you know how to replace a tire on a rim and how long it can take. We hope that this knowledge will be useful to you, but still, let your travels pass without incident! Good roads!