Tire change tools

:h..I use a VISA card...:S

I spent the extra $ for the "Second Gen" model. I liked the two speeds and the adjustable arm. Also came with 4 sockets. I think they are warrented for life but I don't see how I could break one anyway. Replaced the case right away and have all tire changing tools including torque wrench stowed together.

Torque Multiplier

I removed my wheels last summer and I won't do it again- too hard. When it came time to put them back I called in a local mobile truck tire service and he had all (front & rear) on with correct torque in about 15 minutes. Of course he had a 1" impact. It was also only about $70. I take my hat off to those that can and do their own. Only thing I would add is I also needed much more raised height to allow sliding wheels off. Much more than I would have had from the coach jacks. So if I wanted the ability to change a tire in a remote location I would want some jack spacers to allow more lift.

You don't have to be a gorilla to install even the heaviest tire/wheel combination. Loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the wheel Then
lift it off the ground only a fraction of an inch. Just enough to get the weight off the tire. After removing the lug nuts you should be able to remove the old one by just pulling it off the studs.

When mounting the replacement roll it into a position where the holes in the top of the wheel align with the studs. Then slip a bar under the tire and lever it into position. Once it's hanging on 1 or more studs install a nut to keep it in place. Then you can wiggle it around to align the remaining holes in the wheel with the studs.

If you watch it being done at the tire dealers no one is attempting to lift and install a 22.5" tire the same way they do a 14" passenger car tire. All it takes is a little planning and leverage. I've changed thousands of heavy tires over the years. I learned very quickly that brute strength was not the proper method.

To loosen and tighten the lug nuts I use a torque multiplier like this one.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200315001_200315001

You'll also need about a 6" extension and the appropriate size socket to fit the lug nuts. Granted it's not the easiest or cleanest job, but it can be done with a minimum of strain if you follow the proper procedure.

If you need a breaker bar to break the nuts loose these work very well.. You will need to make an extension to the length you want..http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ken-Tool-KEN32508-1-5-Fractional-Double-End-Truck-Wrench-/350950593404?_trksid=p2054897.l4276

I have 19.5 in tires and use a 1/2 in breaker bar, 3 ft pipe, 1/2 in extension and a 6 point socket. After twisting a 1/2 in Chinese extension I found an old Stanley in my box and use it. I jack the tire about 1 in from the ground and use the breaker bar to lift the tire in place. Thought I might have to use it in some remote places like Alaska but never did. I had to use a plug kit and a 12 v compressor once and it worked well.

1: air wrench, 150 PSI pancake compressor, pressure regulator, hose and proper size socket.

Also a 12 ton air/hydraulic jack just for the lift of it.

Chocks for the wheel on the other side of the house.

(NOTE: Other than the size of the air wrench, (Impact wrench) That is exactly what I carry, mine is smaller (3/4 inch) and thus I have to abuse it to get the nuts to come loose (use too much pressure)).

You will also need Mr. Onan's contribution to your house (The generator) to power the compressor.

I also use a torque multipier:

www.amazon.com/Proto-6202A-Torque-Multiplier-Certified/dp/B00116UXRC

You can usually find a used one on ebay much cheaper and this style allows you to torque the lug nuts back on using a standard (150-200 ft/lbs) torque wrench.

Lou
05 Travel Supreme Envoy

I use a Torque Multiplier to remove Lug Nuts from my MH. Easy to use. Got mine off EBAY for about 1/2 the price of Amazon. I also have a 4' pipe to use on a 3/4" breaker bar. Broke the 3/4" ratchet first time I put the 4' pipe on it. Also use the 4' pipe to get wheel in place when installing wheel.

For work at home maybe a little dolly would work to move the tire on/off??

4' sounds good, like the idea of using a jack stand for leverage.....