Installing Snap-On Wheelchair Tires

Edmond Wheelchair Repair and Supply

How to install snap-on solid wheelchair tires.

Installing solid wheelchair tires can be very difficult, and without the right tools it is almost impossible. We hope this little how-to guide will help make the job easier.

We are only going to talk about 20" to 24" rear wheels because it is more cost effective to replace the entire front caster wheel. The technique is the same if you do want to try changing a caster tire. 

The main thing you need to know is that they are misnamed, instead of snap-on they should be called stretch-on. This is because most solid wheelchair tires are two to three inches smaller in diameter then the wheel you will be installing them on, and because of the tough material they can not be easily stretched. The pyramid shaped Invacare DTM tires are the worst.

I am not trying to scare you off from doing it yourself, just warning you ahead of time that it is a tough job and will take some work. My wife claims that I make up whole new words while installing some solid tires and tends to warn people away from me while I am working.

First thing you will need is the proper tools. The following list are separated into needed and recommended tools. The needed tools are those you must have, recommended just help make the job easier.

Required Tools

(1) Good bench mounted vise.
(2) Snap-on Tire Tool. Available Here.
(3) A few plastic tie wraps. Available at any hardware store.

Recommended Tools

(4) A spray bottle of soapy water for lubrication.
(5) A couple of old screwdrivers.
(6) Rubber mallet.

STEP 1

Adjust the tire tool rods so that the end rod is through the wheel bearings and the adjustable rod is just outside the wheel edge. Now clamp the tire tool into the vise with the rods pointing up.

STEP 2

Place the wheel on the tool. Some prefer the handrim down, but I prefer it up.

STEP 3

Secure the tire to the wheel with a tie wrap. Place the tire over the the outside tool rod. Spray a little soapy water on the rod, underside of the tire, and the wheel rim.

STEP 4

Slowly rotate tire and wheel clockwise to stretch the tire and guide it onto the rim. Use both hands and employ several short turning movements. Be careful not to turn loose or it could spring back and you could lose everything you have gained.

Continue turning until you reach the tie wrap.

STEP 5

Now slowly rotate the wheel counterclockwise one full revolution and the tire will seat itself.

Remove the wheel from the tool by pulling straight up. Remove the tie wrap and you are done.

TIPS

Softening the tire in hot water ( not boiling ) for 5 minutes will let the tire stretch easier. Do not try to soften the tire in the oven or microwave.

If the tire is just a little out of place, carefully lifting with an old screwdriver will many times get it to seat. On some E&J composite wheels, the tire may have a slight raised area. A couple of gentle taps with a rubber mallet will usually seat it.

Do not use petroleum based lubricants as they can sometimes damage the tire.

Back to Solid Wheelchair Tires

01/03/2008