Correct Use of Commercial Inner Tubes

Tires in certain agricultural, industrial, semi-truck, and other commercial application segments are designed for use with inner tubes. Correct use of commercial tire tubes can prevent air leakage, sustain long-term use, reduce rolling resistance, support heavy loads, preserve tread life, and offer resistance to age and heat-related failure.

How to Choose Correct Commercial Inner Tubes

Choosing the correct commercial tube will help your tire retain air, remain stable during service, and reduce downtime for your equipment. Here are some things to think about when you are going to buy tire inner tubes online. First, consider whether you need a bias or radial tube. It is very important to remember that while you can use a radial tube in a bias tire, you should never use a bias tube in a radial tire. So, if you have a bias tire you can use any tube in it (assuming you have the correct size), but if you have a radial tire you must use a radial tube.

Next, you want to make sure you have the correct valve for your application and for the wheel you are using. Many tube sizes come with more than one valve available, so you should know which one you need. A good example is a 7.50R-16 tube, which can be purchased with a TR13, TR15, TR150A, or TR75A valve. A TR13 is a straight rubber- covered valve that is 1.38 inches long and fits a .453- inch diameter rim hole. A TR15 is also a straight rubber- covered valve that is 1.38 inches in length, but it fits a .625 inch diameter rim hole. The TR150A is a straight rubber covered valve that fits a .625 inch diameter rim hole, but it is longer at 3.55 inches and is hand bendable. The TR75A is a metal valve, generally bent at 85 degrees, that is 3.0 inches long, fits a .453 inch rim hole and can be used with liquid fill-our different valves for four different applications.

Finally, think about the type of application the tire is being used in and select a type of tube that can handle the job. For many commercial applications, a regular Premium tube made from butyl rubber will be suitable. For some farming applications, especially with radial rear farm tires, a Severe Service tube made thicker with stronger construction is needed. For some heavy duty farming and forestry applications a Natural Rubber tube is required.

FAQs Tubes

What Are the Different Types of Tubes Available at Tires4That?

Tires4That carries tubes for a variety of vehicles and equipment in natural rubber, bias-ply, and radial construction:

• ATVs and UTVs
• Farm equipment
• Construction vehicles, including OTR
• Golf carts
• Trailers
• Medium and light trucks
• Forklifts and telehandlers
• Motorcycles
• Wheelbarrows, hand carts, and dollies

We also stock tube tire flaps to prevent damage to the tubes from the rims.

How Do I Choose the Right Tube for My Vehicle?

You need to know whether your vehicle requires separate tire tubes or if it uses tubeless tires. To find out what types of tires your vehicle uses, consult the owner’s manual or the specifications on the manufacturer’s website. If your vehicle has aftermarket rims, consult the manufacturer of the rims.

To determine what type of tube you need without access to manufacturer literature, you can use the vehicle’s existing tires and rims as a reference. Always match tube type with tire type. If you have radial-ply tires, you will need radial tubes, however, radial tubes can be used in both radial and bias-ply tires. Some heavy-duty farm and forestry machines even require natural rubber tubes.

Also, ensure the diameter of the tube is the right size for your rims and tires. If you already have a tube on hand, inflate it before measuring it against the wheel well.

Once you know the right tire type and size, you must determine which valve you need. The tubes we carry offer a variety of valve options, such as TR13, TR150A, and TR75A. These valves can be covered with rubber or metal and vary in length and diameter.

If you aren’t sure which valve will fit in your vehicle’s rim holes, contact Tires4That and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Are the Tubes Durable Enough for Off-Road Use?

When designed for off-road use, tire tubes can certainly withstand the abuse. Off-road-ready tubes are made with thicker rubber and stronger compounds designed to avoid punctures and abrasions. If you’re unsure whether a specific tube can handle off-road use, contact Tires4That, and we’ll tell you.

How Do I Know if I Need a Replacement Tube?

The most obvious sign you need new tubes is that they don’t hold air anymore. Look for areas where the tube is bubbling or leaking. You can put the tube in water and look for bubbles streaming out, you can listen for rushing air, or you can feel around the tire for leaks.

Keep in mind that tubes with small holes can be patched, though particularly large cuts or holes may be unpatchable. When done properly, patches can last for years.

Tire tubes can have surprisingly long lifespans because they are shielded from UV rays by the tire. It’s not rare to see tire tubes that are more than 20 years old and still in use. However, just as tires begin to harden and crack with age, so do tubes. Look for surface cracking on your tubes, indicating they may be too old.

Do I Need to Replace the Tube Every Time I Replace the Tire?

Tire tubes can last much longer than tires, and as long as they still hold air, they are likely still good. Tires are exposed to the elements and UV radiation and directly contact the ground, causing them to wear out much quicker than tubes.

If you’re replacing a tire due to a puncture or cut, the tube may be completely unharmed or at least patchable.

The only reason you would need to replace the tube along with the tire is if you are changing tire sizes. If the tube is too small, the tire will always have a gap between the tread and the tube, which will make it appear flat. If the tube is too large, the tire simply won’t fit over the top.

How Can I Extend the Lifespan of My Tire Tube?

To keep your tubes in good condition, avoid overinflating them, which can damage the structure. Never operate the vehicle on underinflated tubes, either. You can protect the tube from damage from the rim with flaps as well.

When it’s time to store your tubes, don’t fold them. Folding your tubes can cause permanent creases, which will weaken the tube’s structure. Never store your tubes in direct sunlight or let them come into contact with harsh chemicals.