Twilightblue28A

I bought another set of tires for a spare set of CUP II wheels. The wheels did not come with valve stem assemblies. Should I buy a set of rubber valve stems from Pep Boys or another type?

centerpunch

Whoever mounts your tires will install new valves.

Twilightblue28A

I agree that new valve stems must be installed. Rubber or chrome?
Thanks.

centerpunch

Whoever mounts your tires will supply new valves, choose whichever type you prefer.

nine9six

I would recommend a high-quality alloy valve stem, which do not deflect at speed, as the rubber valve stems can and do.

Twilightblue28A

My wheels are alloy. If I use dissimilar metals, I may damage the wheels? It makes sense to purchase alloy valve stem assemblies. Any idea of a manufacturer or supplier?? Thank you.

ed devinney

evilfij

For the way you are driving, alloy valve stems are not worth it and I don’t think they are as reliable as plain old rubber ones.

shadow993

I learned about valve stems when I bought my car. Apparently the previous owner didn't swap them out, and caused me 2 flats. The rubber was old and anything touching it caused the seal to break.

As for which one..... it doesn't matter, as it's usually where the rubber meets the wheel that leaks.

nine9six

Google is your friend..."alloy vavle stems for sports cars"

ed devinney

More than anyone probably wants to know about valve stems can be found here: https://m.tirerack.com/tires/tiretec...jsp?techid=208

TL;DR:

• Galvanic corrosion with the wheel is not an issue for metal valve stems as the interface is a rubber seal.
• Rubber stems are good for cold pressures under 65psi, cornering in autocross and speeds to 130mph. Will work fine for a street-driven car.
• Fresh rubber stems are SOP for new tire installation but if you're concerned just ask. In this case you have already bare wheels, just pop the old stems out and the tire place will put in new from the big box on the shelf.

95_993

Have metal balance stems for over 12yrs. No issues.