Tire balancing is the process of equalizing the weight of the combined tire and wheel assembly so that it rotates smoothly at high speed. The purpose of tire balancing is to reduce vibration and ensure a smooth ride. If you’re not sure how to proceed with tire balancing, it’s always best to take your car to an auto- or tire-repair shop. However, taking care of tire balancing can also be done at home, provided you have the right tools and some basic skills. By following a few simple steps, you can drive safely and comfortably.
Why It’s Important to Pay Attention to Tire Balancing
Tire balancing is typically done by adding small weights to the outside of the wheel assembly. Balancing is important because it helps to prolong the life of your tires and avoid Montgomery cuts, which are caused by uneven wear on the treads. While most new tires come pre-balanced, they eventually will need to be rebalanced as they age and lose weight. Tire balancing is typically done at a tire shop or service center. The technician will use a special machine to spin the tire and measure the amount of imbalance. Once the problem has been identified, they will add weights to correct the imbalance. In some cases, rebalancing may not be possible and you will need to replace your tires.
How to Take Care of Tire Balancing Yourself
Tire balancing involves adding weights to the tire and wheel assembly so that it rotates smoothly. The first step is to remove the tire from the car. Once the tire is off, the next step is to remove the valve stem cap and let some air out of the tire. This will make it easier to work with. The next step is to find the heavy spot on the tire. The best way to do this is to spin the tire and watch where it starts to wobble. Once you have found the heavy spot, the next step is to add weight to the opposite side of the tire. This can be done with lead weights or tape weights. Once the weight is added, it’s time to put the tire back on the car and inflate it to the proper pressure. Finally, test drive the car to make sure that the tire is balanced properly. If it’s not, repeat these steps until it is.
Car tires need to be balanced periodically to ensure a smooth ride. While most car owners may opt to have this done by a technician, it can also be done at home. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to balance your car’s tires.