Repairing a tubeless tyre

Tubeless tyres have become increasingly popular for their superior performance, reduced risk of flats, and improved comfort. However, just like regular tyres, tubeless tyres can suffer from punctures. The good news? Repairing a tubeless tyre puncture is not as daunting as it may seem. In fact, with the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can fix tyre puncture on the go without the need for professional help.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to repair a tubeless tyre puncture using a repair kit. By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of the process and be ready to tackle any puncture with confidence. So, let’s dive in!

What Is a Tubeless Tyre?

Before jumping into repairs, let’s briefly cover what makes tubeless tyres different. As the name suggests, tubeless tyres don’t have an inner tube. Instead, the tyre itself creates an airtight seal against the rim, allowing for a more seamless ride. This design reduces the chance of pinch flats, enhances the overall ride quality, and allows for lower tyre pressure for improved grip and comfort.

But when a puncture does happen, it’s usually due to sharp objects like nails or glass penetrating the tyre tread. Fortunately, most tubeless punctures can be easily fixed with a tubeless tyre repair kit.

Common Causes of Tubeless Tyre Punctures

Understanding the common reasons for punctures can help you avoid them in the first place:

1. Sharp Debris: Glass, nails, and thorns are some of the most frequent culprits of punctures.
2. Worn Tread: As tyres wear down, they become more vulnerable to punctures.
3. Improper Inflation: Underinflated tyres are more likely to suffer from punctures due to increased contact with the road surface.

How to Identify a Tubeless Tyre Puncture

Identifying a puncture in a tubeless tyre is similar to how you would do so in a regular tyre. Here are a few telltale signs:

• Sudden Loss of Air: This is often the most obvious indicator. If your tyre rapidly deflates, you are likely having a puncture.
• Visible Object: You may notice the object that caused the puncture, such as a nail or any sharp object sticking out of the tyre.
• Slow Air Leak: Sometimes, the puncture isn’t immediately obvious. If you notice that your tyre slowly loses pressure over time, inspect it for any damage.

Tools You Need for Repairing a Tubeless Tyre Puncture

Before you start the repair process, make sure you have the following tools handy:

• Tubeless Tyre Repair Kit: This typically includes tyre plugs, a reamer, and an insertion tool.
• Tyre Sealant: Most tubeless tyres already have sealant inside, but it’s good to have extra for larger punctures.
• Air Pump or CO2 Inflator: You’ll need this to re-inflate the tyre after the repair.
• Gloves: Handling the repair tools can get messy, so gloves are recommended.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing a Tubeless Tyre Puncture

Step 1: Locate the Puncture

First things first, you need to find where the puncture is. Look for any visible signs of damage, such as a nail or thorn. If you’re struggling to spot the puncture, you can inflate the tyre slightly and listen for any hissing sound or look for bubbles if you apply water over the surface of the tyre.

Step 2: Remove the Object

Once you’ve found the puncture, carefully remove the object (if still lodged) using a pair of pliers or a similar tool. Be cautious not to enlarge the hole unnecessarily while doing this.

Step 3: Clean the Puncture Area

To ensure the plug adheres properly, clean the puncture area. Use the reamer tool from your repair kit to enlarge the hole slightly and roughen up the edges. This will help the plug bond better to the tyre and provide a long-lasting repair.

Step 4: Insert the Plug

Now comes the most critical part of the process. Take one of the plugs from your tubeless tyre repair kit and insert it into the insertion tool. Push the plug firmly into the puncture hole until only a small section remains visible outside the tyre. You’ll need to use force to get the plug in properly, but don’t worry, this is normal.

Once the plug is in place, remove the insertion tool, leaving the plug in the tyre.

Step 5: Trim the Plug

Using a sharp knife or scissors, trim off the excess plug material sticking out of the tyre. Be careful not to cut too close to the tyre surface; leave a small amount protruding to ensure the plug holds securely.

Step 6: Inflate the Tyre

Now that the puncture is sealed, it’s time to inflate the tyre back to its recommended pressure. Use an air pump or CO2 inflator to do this. Keep an eye on the tyre for any signs of air leakage during inflation.

Step 7: Add Sealant (If Necessary)

If the puncture is large or the existing sealant inside the tyre has dried up, you may need to add more sealant. Remove the valve core from the tyre and pour the sealant into the tyre, then replace the valve core and inflate the tyre again.

Step 8: Test the Repair

With the tyre inflated, spin the wheel or ride the bike for a short distance to distribute the sealant evenly. This will ensure that any small leaks around the plug are sealed up. If the tyre holds its pressure, your repair is complete!

Tips for Successful Tubeless Tyre Repair

• Carry a Repair Kit: Always keep a tubeless tyre repair kit on hand when you’re out riding or driving. You never know when a puncture will happen.
• Check Tyre Sealant Regularly: Over time, tyre sealant can dry out, reducing its effectiveness. Make it a habit to check and top up the sealant as needed.
• Use High-Quality Plugs: Invest in a good-quality tubeless repair kit, as the plugs are critical to ensuring a long-lasting repair.

When to Replace the Tyre Instead of Repairing It

While tubeless tyre repair kits are great for small to medium punctures, there are cases where you might need to replace the tyre entirely. If the puncture is near the sidewall or larger than the size of the plug, it’s best to consider replacing the tyre for safety reasons.

Conclusion

Repairing a tubeless tyre puncture might sound tricky, but it’s a simple task once you know the steps. By using a tubeless tyre repair kit and following this guide, you’ll be able to fix most punctures quickly and easily, getting back on the road or trail without much hassle.

At AutoAid, we understand the importance of staying safe and keeping your tyres in top condition. Whether you’re dealing with a puncture or need a more comprehensive tyre service or any other roadside assistance services, AutoAid is here to help you maintain your vehicle’s performance with expert advice and support.

For any clarifications or assistance on this topic the easiest way is to download the Autoaid app or contact us on our helpline number.