sigh. I take it there is more than one size rim tool? I have 21s, and apparently the tool I have is for the 30" rims. So, is it possible to change the tires without the tool?
Anyone want to trade?
I won't say it's impossible, but you need the tool. Too bad you're not 2,000 miles closer, I'd loan you mine. Maybe someone in your neck of the woods has one they'd loan you.
Chris, I tried that on one wheel not worth the effort. However if you want to come to Florida the beaches are packed this time of year with migrating college Students milling about with no clear direction then I'll loan you mine and when the job is done we can study the habits of these wondrous creatures
The local guys have one for sure. The whole project is stalled now for one reason or another. Between missing "that one bolt" and by sciatica I'm a bit frustrated. Oh well, at least I'm getting a new roof tomorrow. yay.
I did get the tire on. The tool works fine to spread the rim back.
Are you talking about the rim tool as supplied on Canadian cars or the generic rim spreader?
This guy
Yes, that tool is good for spreading the rim. To change the tire I use my coats 220 machine (it collapses the rim nicely) and I can use my tire tools to mount, then the three legged tool to expand it back out. Some use two blocks of wood (once side cut to fit the curve of the rim on each block) and a bottle jack to push the rim back out.
The correct method:
I have a few rim tools (rim jacks as they are often called) similar to the one that Chris Olsen posted. Some are fairly short as for the 21" rims, others are longer as for the 23" rims(rear TT and probably others), and one that has adjustable legs(3 or 4 settings, it's been a while since I've seen it) that works for several different sizes. They work great as far as I am concerned. Some say they have had trouble with them distorting the rims. The rim jacks don't have to pull the rim out of shape to remove or install a tire. It just takes a bit to do what is needed. JMHO. Dave
Chris that tool might even be too big for the TT truck, but it might be more valuable anyway.
It might work great for the 30 inch straight side split rims that were being talked about a while back.
A simple turn buckle with a bolt welded in each end works better than anything and being light weight can be carried along with you. KGB