I think I just bought the wrong thing. I just bought the TireMinder 55c system. It says not for aluminum wheel stems, only for Brass. Problem: I have Aluminum. Can I use it anyway? Why would these not work for aluminum stems? Do I have to send the box back and get something else, or can I make it work somehow? I have a 1996 Bounder 32ft. Appreciate any help out there.Ken

Only difference I can think of is the temperature may be lower,slightly compared to the brass. No big deal as you are looking for a change from the norm which you will learn after several trips and different weather conditions.

Call TireMinder and ask them.They have been VERY helpful the two times I've called them.

Have you asked the TireMinder people? They're more likely to have the real answer than the speculation you'll get here. I don't see an issue, but they may have a reason.

TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM problem | Good Sam Community

11 Replies

BB_TX
Nomad
Mar 25, 2017
Most likely incompatible metals. Don't install them without asking Tireminder.
Dutch_12078
Explorer II
Mar 25, 2017
I put dielectric grease on my aluminum valve stems before installing the TST brass sensors. That was suggested to me by TST tech support.
Dick_B
Explorer
Mar 25, 2017
I wonder if one used some pipe dope on the threads if that would allow them to be used on Alum threads or a produce like Never-Seez by Bostick.
wing_zealot
Explorer
Mar 25, 2017
Do you think the company would tell you not to use them if there wasn't a problem?
Miles_Away
Explorer
Mar 25, 2017
jplante4 wrote:
Brass wheels???

He didn't say brass wheels. I think he meant to say brass valve stems. With regard to his initial question about using the TPMS sensors on aluminum valve stems; Brass and aluminum do not get along well with each other. The TPMS sensors connectors are brass, so to avoid an electrolysis issue they tell the end user to use them with brass valve stems.
RoyF
Explorer
Mar 25, 2017
Very interesting. I see that TireMinder does make different sensors for Brass stems and for Aluminum (rubber) stems. I use the TST pressure system, and it uses the same sensor for both kinds of stems.
fj12ryder
Explorer III
Mar 25, 2017
Have you asked the TireMinder people? They're more likely to have the real answer than the speculation you'll get here. I don't see an issue, but they may have a reason.
jplante4
Explorer II
Mar 25, 2017
Brass wheels???
artitude
Explorer
Mar 25, 2017
great. thanks
Sam_Spade
Explorer
Mar 25, 2017
Call TireMinder and ask them.

They have been VERY helpful the two times I've called them.