A side cut on a tire is a very serious problem, much worse than a standard puncture. At certain times, the driver may not be able to change the wheel, as a result of which the indicated malfunction needs to be repaired. Here it is important not to forget that this defect requires a careful and professional approach, since the possibility of complete destruction of the tire is quite high. Depending on the degree of damage, even at the most critical moments, such a “wound” cannot always be “darned.”
Problem description
In the case of a side cut of a car tire, the integrity of the cord is broken, the fibers of which form the inner frame. He is responsible for the rigidity, configuration and strength of the entire element. This means that the wheel automatically loses its characteristics, so it is advisable to repair only minor deformations. With large cuts, the applied efforts will not have an effect, the part will not be restored, but the degree of safetydriving a car will decrease significantly.
It should be remembered that the cord fibers in radial modifications are located perpendicular to the wheel circumference, in diagonal versions they overlap and at a certain angle. Repairing this malfunction is more effective in the first models. But do not despair, diagonal configurations are practically not used on modern cars.
Amount of damage
The degree of side cut is determined by whether the critical value of this parameter is reached. Determining this level is easy:
- Longitudinal deformation extending along the cords should be no more than 50 millimeters (to be repaired).
- Similar damage of the transverse type over 30 millimeters cannot be repaired.
- Regardless of the quality and wear of the rubber: if the cut is closer than forty millimeters to the edge of the tire, it is not allowed to be used.
In a separate category allocate cargo versions, the repair of which is more difficult. Due to the increased loads and operational nuances, in this case, the deformation that touches ten cord fibers is considered critical. If this value is exceeded, the tire can only be thrown away.
How do I repair a side cut myself?
Eliminating the problem in question is fundamentally different from repairing rubber with standard tread punctures. This feature is associated with a smaller thickness of the side surface of the car tire. In addition, the indicated part of the wheelreceives enhanced impact and dynamic deformations. The overload is especially felt on bad roads and when driving off-road.
To resolve these problems, the optimal method is considered to consist of the following steps:
- The side cut is processed in such a way that a bowl configuration is obtained. To do this, use a fine abrasive, which grinds the edges of the deformed zone. This stage is very important, as it ensures that the reinforcing patch is subsequently firmly bonded.
- Then the treated part is degreased with white spirit, alcohol or other substances, after which it is filled with a uniform layer of raw rubber.
- The prepared tire is sent for vulcanization. Manipulation is performed using an industrial hair dryer or a special camera.
- At the final stage, the patch installation site is cleaned, then static wheel balancing is done.
Features
Repairing a side cut of a tire on your own is relevant when the malfunction is not critical. Nevertheless, such a tire should be operated carefully, since even after an independent, albeit carefully done repair, there is a high risk of wheel runout. If it is not possible to replace a tire, it is better to use it as a spare tire.
This method is not suitable for all side cuts. Quite often, a damaged tire is recommended to be replaced with a serviceable version. With excess deformations, there is an increasedthe risk of tearing off the patch with subsequent negative consequences. A particularly dangerous moment occurs when driving at high speed. Self-repair of this defect should be approached carefully and responsibly.
Service
Better, faster and better fix the specified problem in a specialized service center. This is due to the availability of equipment designed for such work, suitable tools and consumables, as well as with the relevant experience of the workshop staff. Repair of a side cut of a wheel from the point of view of specialists consists of the following manipulations:
- The tire is dismantled, the defective area is inspected.
- The hole is trimmed along the edges with wire cutters, which guarantees high quality welding.
- The treated area is cleaned with a drill, after which special cement is applied.
- Raw rubber is cut into thin strips that are stretched and placed in the prepared cut.
- Vulcanization in progress using a suitable tool.
- Further, the processed area is cleaned, marking is performed for mounting a patch with reinforcement.
- Preliminarily, the area is degreased, cement is applied. After it dries, glue the prepared piece of rubber.
- At the edges of the patch is treated with a quality compound of sealant. It should dry completely.
In the final phaseThe retreaded tire is mounted on the rim. Then balancing is carried out using compensator weights.
Further, the tire can be used for its intended purpose, however. excessive loads and high speeds should be avoided. The repaired element must undergo a certain break-in with full testing on real roads.
Tire side cut: repair or replacement?
After repairing a tire, it needs to be given special attention. A few points to highlight:
- if the rubber on the front axle bursts, the vehicle's handling drops sharply, which is fraught with a ditch;
- if this happens on the rear tire, the risk of a serious accident is several times lower;
- do not mount remanufactured wheels at the front, as a large body mass puts an increased load on the front tires, especially on machines with a driven front axle.
In any case, do not get carried away with high speeds on rubber with a repaired side cut, as even the most modern technologies do not restore its properties to 100%.
Results
In conclusion, it can be noted that the indicated malfunction most often occurs due to careless and aggressive driving. This is especially true for driving on potholes and roads with poor coverage. As a result, not only the quality characteristics of the tire are reduced, but also the safety of all road traffic representatives.
