Putting a Tube in the Tire?

My tire has a 3 inch rip/split in the side about 1/4 inch from the rim. There is a big bubble there now but it is not leeking air, yet.

It would seem I have to import tires which could take some time?!

So the tire guy is suggesting putting some sort of patch on the tire and a tube.

I know this is a bad idea.....but just how bad is it?

[mikefocke]

The sidewall, once punctured, is not repairable. You say you have a 3 inch gash. That is much different than a simple nail or screw hole.

The sidewall provides stability to the tire when you turn. (Watch some other car go around a turn and imagine the force being applied to the sidewall as the tire deforms in response to the cornering forces.)

No patch will hold, and the cords in the tire could pinch or puncture the tube.

I'd never do what you are suggesting, lest it all let go suddenly as you are driving and you lose stability, damage the rim, and who knows where the car and occupants are going to end up.

I think you are better/safer waiting for the tire, as unpleasant as that sounds.

Good luck.

[wild1poet2]

I run a spoke tire with a tube on my motorcycle. I know that tube tires are smoother on the inside than tubeless tires. The tubeless tire may have ribs or other rough surfaces on the inside which will cause friction with an inner tube inserted. This will heat up and could cause the tube to burst from heat.

I'd be careful about this and think of it as a temporary fix at best and one in which you would have to keep speeds low in case of blow outs.

I do seem to remember that you can purchase heavier tubes. I forget what they are used for. Drag racing? Off road racing? They are made out of thicker rubber and they would hold up better than typical tubes if subjected to excessive friction.

I was just told 6 weeks for new tires.

[mikefocke]

That would be so much better than using a tire with the rip you describe as the patch wouldn't hold and the tube would be in danger of being pinched or punctured.

Until you can get the new tires.

[Dr. Kill]

Originally Posted by cartagena

I was just told 6 weeks for new tires.

That sucks. Maybe you should consider ordering two sets?

[jmatta]

Is importation of a tire(s) really that difficult in S. America? I'd check with any of the performance/track people in your area. Racing is big and they must have access to tires.