Repairs: Plugging a side wall

[NukeproofPeanut]

I thought I would post this to hopefully save someone buying a new tyre when you get a dreaded sidewall puncture!

 

Yesterday I had the displeasure of picking up this beaut at the cyclepark, no doubt left over from all the new construction (which is quite fun I might add; the new section, not the puncture..)!

(Yes that's a relatively new Rock Razor..)

 

The culprit:

 

So the butt Mushroom plug is probably the best and most reliable way of fixing a side wall puncture! Or any puncture too big for the usual plugs you get. Available (hopefully) at your LBS!


I plan to use the same fix on my rear after having successfully used one to fix my front wheel. After the epic and successful 139 Dustin Invitational, my Hans Dampf was done in a by jagged rock. Thankfully the tear wasn't too bad and the plug sealed it perfect:

 

To use one of these, it's fairly simple.

1. Remove the tyre from the rim, or just enough to get access to the hole.
2. Clean the area with some isopropyl alcohol (available at dis-chem).
3. Apply some rubber cement (got with a set of normal plugs) or regular tyre glue to the disk base of the plug. This will seal against the tire wall.
4. Push the metal pit through the hole from the inside-out and pull with pliers until the base is firm against the tyre.
5. Reseat and inflate the tyre.
6. Trim plug to your desired length. I'd recommend about the same length as mine. I didn't want to go too short, but the glue and pressure from inside will keep the plug there regardless.

Hopefully this saves a few peeps from buying a new tyre!

[fanievb]

where did you get yours?

[Captain Fastbastard Mayhem]

They're readily available from motorbike shops. A lifesaver for them 

[NukeproofPeanut]

where did you get yours?

Finish Line Cycles (Kempton Park)