Valve Stems, almost went down today for the second time.
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Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 724
Likes: 2
From: Cincinnati Ohio
I heard something, of course I can't swear it was air leaking, out of a valve stem, with 38-40 lbs of pressure behind it, which would be about like the hose of an air compressor, which yeah, I would have to say could be heard at 75 mph. Apparantly you don't think so, and I don't care. Now , For those who have been helpful on this thread here's what I've come up w/ so far. I found a new shop, they will inspect and remount the tire if it's good, balance it, install an inner tube, which they say they do all the time and recommend it as added insurance. They don't feel the rubber valvr stem is inadequate, but do agree, as many, that the metal ones are superior to them, and will top it off w/ the metal caps w/ seals. I did have a metal cap on there, but I'm not sure it had a seal in it or not, I'll check the matching back one to see and let you know. I know the first time it happened, it was a plastic one. A couple of guesses are that possibly the core or the stem was stripped, causing it to come loose both times. Also, I'm looking forward to having the wheels balanced. I swear that bike rode better before when they were, why wouldn't it? You can bet I'll buy a core tool and check these from time to time. Thanx for all the info and suggestions, I've learned something from the experience, and a lot of great info here on the forums as usual, oh yeah, and one smart ***, but that's typical. Thanx.
Banned
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 1,551
Likes: 6
Well, count me too as a smartass cause there ain't no way anyone is gonna hear a stem leak air at hwy speed.......Other than that, this was a good thread cause it does happen and perhaps folks will pay more attention to their valve stems.
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 1,785
Likes: 4
From: Oklahoma
I think you've hit the nail on the head. Nothing else makes sense. Be sure to have the mechanic change out the core. Better still, learn how to mount your own tires so you won't have to wonder whether someone else knows what they are doing.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 2,447
Likes: 0
From: Danville Va, Providence NC
The stainless steel caps are available at AutoZone or Advance Auto Parts for about $5 a pair. It has the 6 sides to it, like a nut, about 3/8" size. I run them on EVERYTHING. They have the gaskets inside too. I have run them on lawnmowers with NO CORE, and they held. I wouldn't advise it, I'm just giving an example. They are that good.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,450
Likes: 4
From: El Cajon Ca.
Motorcycle valve stems are shorter then standard valve stems. I always run the steel valve stem caps with the wrench flats and O ring built in.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 2,788
Likes: 1
From: Maine
Went out and bought a fourpak of metal caps ( 3.50 at VIP ) that have a rubber gasket inside. The top of the cap has post coming off it that is spit down the middle. You can loosen or tighten the valve core with the post and or put a slotted screwdriver on it to loosen the cap. Thanks for the tip/s everybody!