Tire Repair and Wheel Balancing Supplies: A Guide for Tire Shops

Cold weather and potholes keep tire shops busy all winter. Tire pressure drops as the temperature falls, and potholes cause punctures, bent rims and balance problems. Having the right repair and balancing supplies on hand keeps cars moving through the bay.

Safe tire repair basics

Industry guidelines for passenger and light truck tires are clear:

• Repair only punctures in the tread area — not the sidewall or shoulder.
• Keep repairs to small punctures, generally up to about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
• Remove the tire from the wheel and inspect the inside for damage.
• Use a plug-patch combination (or a plug plus a separate patch) installed from the inside. A plug alone or a patch alone is not considered a complete repair.

Clip-on vs adhesive wheel weights

• Clip-on weights attach to the rim flange. They are common on steel wheels.
• Adhesive (stick-on) weights attach to the inside of the wheel. They are the standard for alloy wheels, where clip-on weights can scratch the finish.

Clean the wheel surface well before applying adhesive weights so they do not fall off in cold weather.

Winter tire pressure reminder

Tire pressure drops as the temperature falls. Remind customers to check pressure monthly in winter and set it to the vehicle's placard, not the number on the sidewall.

Supplies every tire shop should stock

• Plug-patch combinations and patches in common sizes
• Rubber cement and buffing tools
• Valve stems and caps
• Clip-on and adhesive wheel weights in common sizes
• Tire lube and bead sealer

Tire accessories at wholesale prices

RPS Distributors carries tire repair accessories, wheel weights and adhesive wheel weights for shops and dealers. Browse the Tire Accessories collection.

Request a wholesale quote or call 1-855-498-7509.