How to Repair a Punctured Pneumatic Tire

WHEELBARROWS and lawn mowers rarely fail when it's convenient. You're usually halfway through a landscaping project when the tire goes soft, signaling a thorn or a sharp piece of debris has punctured the inner tube. Instead of shelling out for a new assembly, you can fix the leak in under an hour with a basic patch kit. Getting it right comes down to identifying the puncture point and prepping the rubber surface properly. A tire repaired with a quality vulcanizing patch is just as reliable as a new tube, provided you take the time to clean the area and apply even pressure during the bonding process.

1. Secure the Equipment First. Prop up the frame of the mower or wheelbarrow using jack stands or sturdy wood blocks. Loosen the axle nut and slide the wheel assembly off the spindle.
2. Release All Air Pressure. Remove the valve core to release any remaining air pressure. Push the edges of the tire away from the metal rim edge to break the bead seal all the way around.
3. Free the Inner Tube. Use tire levers or two flat-head screwdrivers to pry one side of the tire casing off the rim. Reach inside and pull the inner tube out through the opening.
4. Find the Puncture. Inflate the tube slightly and submerge it in a bucket of water. Watch for bubbles to pinpoint exactly where the puncture is.
5. Bond the Patch Permanently. Scuff the area around the hole with sandpaper to create a rough surface. Apply the vulcanizing cement, let it get tacky for two minutes, then press the patch firmly in place for three minutes.
6. Reassemble and Pressurize. Check the inside of the tire casing for the object that caused the hole and remove it. Tuck the tube back in, seat the tire bead on the rim, and inflate.