how to mount lawn tractor tires

Lawn tractors are essential equipment for maintaining a healthy and lush lawn. These machines use tires that need to be changed once worn out or punctured. If you're a DIY enthusiast, mounting your lawn tractor tires can save you a considerable amount of money. In this article, we'll go through all the steps required to mount lawn tractor tires.

Tools Required

Before you start the tire mounting process, you'll need to gather all the necessary tools. The first tool required is a tire changer machine that you can purchase or rent from a local auto parts store or equipment rental shop. You'll also need a jack and wheel chocks to keep the tractor securely in place. Additionally, a pry bar, a tire gauge, a rubber mallet, and a soapy water solution are must-have tools for mounting the tires successfully.

Removing The Old Tires

The first step in mounting new tires is removing the old ones. Begin by securing the tractor on a level surface using the jack and wheel chocks. Remove the hubcap and loosen the lug nuts using a wrench. Lift the tractor using the jack and remove the tire and wheel. Once the tire is off, use the pry bar to remove the rim from the tire. Afterward, remove the old valve stem and discard the tire.

Mounting The New Tires

After removing the old tire, the next step is mounting the new one. Begin by applying the lubricating soapy water solution to the rubber edges of the tire to prevent damages. Place the first bead of the tire on the rim and check if it's correctly seated. Use the tire iron to wedge the second bead into place, ensuring that you avoid damaging the new tire. Check that the tire is sitting square on the rim and not twisted.

Inflating The Tires

Before mounting the tire onto the tractor, inflate it to the recommended pressure level using a tire gauge. It's essential to inflate the tire evenly to avoid overinflation that can lead to poor tractor handling and underinflation that increases the risk of punctures. After inflating the tire, install the new valve stem and check for any leaks by applying a soapy water solution. If you spot any bubbles, reseat the bead on the tire or tighten the valve stem.

Conclusion

Mounting new tires on your lawn tractor can be a daunting process, but with the right tools and steps, it's a straightforward task. Always ensure that you inflate the tire to the recommended pressure level and use the soapy water solution to lubricate the bead edges to prevent damages. Be safe when using the jack and wheel chocks to avoid accidents, and ensure that you properly dispose of the old tires. Follow the steps mentioned above, and you'll have your lawn tractor back in action with new tires in no time.