Flat Tire - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

cuzndupree · 04-14-2009, 03:25 AM

Ok, I had my second flat tire in less than 6 months and on inspection there was no nail or obvious damage to the tire. The first time I just filled the flat tire up with air and it didn't leak. This time it was a different tire and when I put air in I could tell that air was leaking out of the valve stem. Looking into the stem to see if something was lodged inside I noticed that besides the pin there was a thin flat metal piece that was fitted in the hole around the pin and went from one side to the other. I took a paper clip and fashioned a tool from the two ends so i could insert it in the stem and use it to turn the flat metal piece. I noticed it was very loose and would spin around quite easily, so on a hunch I tried tightening it in a clockwise direction and after doing so the air stopped leaking out from the stem. I don't know anything about the design of the valve stem but Im guessing that if these things become loose the seal might not be air tight and this could be the cause of loosing air in a tire that has no punctures. If anyone knows if this is normal or if this is a defect chime in. I'm thinking that I have to keep and eye on this and check it every now and then to make sure it hasn't gotten loose.

Dave's · 04-14-2009, 03:59 AM

A valve stem tool has a 'spanner' used to remove or install the core. This is the part you found loose. It should not loosen on it's own unless it wasn't tightened in the first place perhaps. Can't do a photo right now but try this link. http://www.drillspot.com/products/45...em_Repair_Tool

Mike Gerber · 04-14-2009, 12:54 PM

^ What Dave said. It's looks like you have found your problem. You have a loose valve stem core. I would stop by any tire store in the area and ask if you can borrow their valve stem core tightening tool for about 30 seconds. I would tighten them all up a bit as this tool is necessary to tighten them properly. You will be able to apply a bit more torque using the tool. They will probably just do it for you.

Mike

cuzndupree · 04-14-2009, 06:55 PM

Thanks for the reply guys. Yes it seems that the problem has been fixed and my tire does not lose pressure now. I hope this might help anyone else who has similar issues. I read a thread where they had their stems replaced for about $200.00, ouch! This info might save you some money.