So I took the ATVs out of hibernation and upon inspection of the tires I noticed a 1/2 inch long slice or gash in one of my tires. The slice goes straight through the first ply. You can actually see the second ply through the slice. The second ply does not seem to be hurt at all but I am nervous now that the second ply is exposed. Just wondering what options I have? I doubt I can plug a 1/2 inch slice, plus it is only the first ply, not like it goes all the way through. I cannot replace the tire as my budget doesn't allow. So my thinking was to fill the slice/gash with some sort of rubber cement or rubber gasket sealer. What are your thoughts? Also these are the stock 2 ply tires that came on my 2009 Rancher 420 4x4.

Thank you.

 

I'll say this and then you can use your own judgment. But for safety's sake, the best route is to replace the tire.

Now having said that, my wife owns a 2004 Yamaha Bruin that has a 1 to 2 in slice in the right front tire. It was like that when she bought it in early 05.
The tire would leak down and once went flat on us while riding. To get us out of the woods, a can of fix-a-flat went in and it then just about 4 years ago, I put some Slime in the tire and she has been riding on that tire ever since.
The tires are original to the atv and when she rides, she's not easy on the machine.

The slice is visible on this tire as well.

 

I put a radial patch on the inside of my tire and then put a tube in it. so far soo good.

 

As stated before, replacing the tire is your best bet. One alternative would be to try and vulcanize the damaged area using rubber bonding chemicals and a hot soldering iron or flat iron. It can be done, but if you've never attempted something like this I'd pass on it. Done properly would be nearly good as new. If not done properly it could cause more damage than is already there.I've watched and assisted my b-inlaw who works with rubber roofing and coating systems repair tires sliced clear through on rear tires and they held up, but I would be concerned about how long before it gives on the trail. All of his tires were low profile for a raptor unlike a utility tire that will give and flex much more.

 

Try checking ebay or your local dealer for a used tire. You might get lucky.

 

Good tips guys, actually I did come across a used tire from a guy who just replaced his OEM stock tires hopefully I can get it at a good price. If not I think I may just fill it in as suggested with some rubber compound and as a second layer of safety I will place a patch on the inside of the tire around where the slice is.

 

well first- you can plug a 1/2" slice no problem- just use 2 plugs- I've done it a ton of times over the years and never had an issue. especially if it's a slice in the tread and not the side wall.

the next best thing is to just to patch it from the inside or just put a tube in it and be done with it- I just did this 2 days ago with one of my new 589's that took a sidewall slice-

 

If they are the stock tires, if you keep an eye out you will find those cheap from people who have upgraded.

Nebraska tire often has blemished tires at a good price. They may have cracks on the outer layer of rubber or other cosmetic problems that don't effect performance or safety.

If you live in an area where you run the thing at higher speeds on roads, safety would be a major concern. Here, most of the places you can ride are trails where the terrain keeps you close to 10 mph, so less of an issue.