What Is Bead Seating?
Bead seating is the process of properly positioning and securing the bead of a tire to the rim of the wheel. The bead is the edge of the tire that sits on the rim. Manufacturers typically make it from high-strength steel wires with a rubber casing on them. It provides the seal between the tire and the rim. Ensuring proper bead seating is critical to mount the tire correctly and safely. Accurate bead seating is also necessary to maintain air pressure and prevent slipping of the tire from the rim.
Which Tool You Can Use for Seating the Bead in Tires
A bead seater is a specialized tool commonly used for seating tire beads. This tool directs a rapid burst of air into the tire, pushing the beads outward to seal against the rim.
In commercial or agricultural settings, particularly with large or stubborn tires, a more powerful bead seater might be necessary. Sometimes, technicians may even use a pneumatic bead expander to achieve proper seating.
Always ensure to follow the equipment’s instructions and safety guidelines to prevent accidents or tire damage.
How to Properly Do Bead Seating? A Step-by-Step Method
Here’s a simplified step-by-step method for bead seating:
- Make sure no damage or debris could prevent a good seal.
- Apply a bead lubricant to both the tire bead and the rim edge to facilitate a smooth seating process.
- Carefully place the tire onto the rim. Make sure to place the bead evenly around the edge.
- Partially inflate the tire to press the beads against the rim using a tire bead seater. You may hear a popping sound as the beads slip into place.
- Inspect the bead to ensure it seats evenly around the rim on both sides.
- If the bead isn’t seated properly, slightly deflate the tire, adjust the bead by manipulating the tire, and then reinflate it.
- Once you seat the bead, inflate the tire to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
- Perform a final inspection to ensure you perform bead seating correctly and there are no leaks.