After breaking down some stock tires without one, I think it is time to invest in a bead breaker or tire changer tool... I'd like it to be able to handle 12 and 14" wheels that works reliably, but I don't want to dump much money into one.

Harbor Freight has a couple different styles, and tractor supply places also have a couple options for around $40- but I'd like to hear from owners about what works and what doesn't.

If you have one that works well, please also provide where to get it.

Thanks in advance for any replies.

 

Lay the tire/rim on the ground and run over the tire with the car or something to break the bead..

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: EastCoastWest

Lay the tire/rim on the ground and run over the tire with the car or something to break the bead..</end quote></div>

What he said...

I am fortunate enough to have a friend who works at a Tire center... and we just use the aluminum rim machine to mount the tires [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

I've been there, done that (drive truck on them) but some are really a pain to get to break like that. They either flip up, or just won't come off the bead.

I've used the bumper jack, or the landing pads on the 5th wheel before, too, but sometimes the just don't want to go, especially on factory tires that have been on a long time...

That's why I'm looking for an inexpensive, easier way to do it.

 

Jeff,

Found this link from NE ATV's --- Answering the question you asked [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img] It is an "ok" web forum - this one is better.

http://northeastatvers.com/for...ndex.php?topic=14750.0

 

Thanks.

I think I'll give that first one a shot...

 

To break the bead using your car or truck,first place a 2X6 around 3 long foot on the tire next to the rims edge,drive on the board this should break the bead..It works for me..

 

On the link that Crazysteve provided, I have used the first one and it works pretty good. One thing that makes it easier is to leave some air in the tires so the sides don't collapse.

 

Cool. That's the one I ordered. It hasn't gotten here yet, but I'll post back when I've had a chance to use it.

 

I bought one some months ago. It was worth the investment. It sounds quite simple, but it actually took some tries to figure out how to work it properly. Use lots of padding though. It will scratch up your rims quite nice.