Streak

This maybe a silly question but I have a nearly new set of RA1's and one has a screw hole in it.

I've had it plugged. So my question is, is it race worthy? My concern is that the plug gets pushed back into the tire.

Next question: Would a patch be better? Seems to me like it would be but I'm no expert.

Next question: Should I just not risk it?

bobt993

I picked up a screw in the paddock two years ago at the Rolex race weekend (njmp) on a new set of R6's. I had it plugged locally and raced on it with no problem. Patch would be better. Tire was used another 15 heat cycles and when inspected was fine.

Streak

Thanks Bob.

Leica356

Just had a Z214 with a center screw hole plugged and patched. Got another 20 DE heat cycles before cording with no leaks.

utkinpol

patch is always better than a plug, unless it is a mushroom like plug so it actually works as a patch and would never allow to be torn out of a tire.
i always have this set with me and i used it may be 3 times so far on different tires - never had an issue. after you use it a couple of times it kinda pays for itself.
http://patchboy.com/mm5/merchant.mvc...tegory_Code=ki

JackOlsen

The 'pilot's advice' you'll get is going to be to replace the tire. But 'pilot's advice,' by its definition, is to err completely on the side of no risk.

I've driven on plugged and plugged/patched tires without incident. In fact, while I've heard of all kinds of tire and wheel failures, I can't think of one that was attributed to a failed plug or patch. But still, I can't go wrong if I tell you to replace that tire.

d15b7

i've raced on plugged tires too many times to count. i keep a 'Camel' deluxe plugging kit in my race box, at all times. takes me about 10 mins total to fix a tire now.

Todd
ReidSpeed

Benton

Where is the plug located? From what I understand, anything within 1" of the sidewall (or on the sidewall) is risky; otherwise, you should be OK.

For quick plugging, I keep a Dynaplug tool in my glovebox for just in-case.

markus_t19

what would be the recommendation on a super small whole in the sidewall?
I lost about 5 PSI in 2 hours of slow driving (trying to get to a garage that could swap the tire that had that problem)

bobt993

Todd has raced on shaven snow tires to make them into slicks... BTW hope to catch up to you soon. It has been awhile.

Streak

Thanks for the input guys. I've dropped the tire off to get plug/patched. What could go wrong

Benton

How did it get there? A hole that size sounds more like a manufacturing fault or a leak at the bead.

DanR

Surprised how many people have done it, would not be my choice for the sake of the cost of a tire!

markus_t19

Quote:
Originally Posted by markus_t19
what would be the recommendation on a super small whole in the sidewall?
I lost about 5 PSI in 2 hours of slow driving (trying to get to a garage that could swap the tire that had that problem)


No idea how it got there. we spotted the hole using soap water. It is tiny in the middle of the sidewall on the inside of the rear.

It has not yet been inspected any further, i.e. with tire unmounted. It happened while travelling and the tire is now being shipped back to my Porsche dealer. Manufacturing fault crossed my mind as well. I guess my dealer will contact Michelin...