Talking about Wheels

[JIM CHALOUPKA]

I am installing smart tire on the bus and thus am taking the tires off. Have found quite a mess there and am cleaning it up.
Something I am having trouble with is cleaning the valve stem pocket found on the outside of the wheel in the dished area. It is very dirty and corroded and needs to be clean to properly seat and seal the stem.
The best way to see it is with an inspection mirror and a magnifying glass. I am wondering does anyone know of a special tool for performing the task and where to get one. Something that fits the hole and attaches to a drill with maybe skotchbright inserts or what.

After removing a wheel I found a leaking tag oil seal. and learned about wheel wear on the mounting flange.

Lots of work to get these buggers into shape.

A few images of wheels and tires

[JIM CHALOUPKA]

and a few more.

[Orren Zook]

Jim,

The best source for heavy duty rim/tire repair products is Tech International of Johnstown Ohio: http://www.techtirerepairs.com/usa.htm

[JIM CHALOUPKA]

Jim,

The best source for heavy duty rim/tire repair products is Tech International of Johnstown Ohio: http://www.techtirerepairs.com/usa.htm

Good source Orren, thanks. I remember some were looking for tire gauges not too long ago, well they have one that looks real nice, don't know the price though.
http://www.techtirerepairs.com/catal...subgroup=OR090

Skiffer, that would be a nice handout for the rally for everyone as they check in

JIM

[JIM CHALOUPKA]

Found this:

http://www.todaystrucking.com/images...SVM_Manual.pdf


JIM

[Jon Wehrenberg]

Hub seals are quite reliable. Considering the number of miles I have put on both my coaches and how few I have replaced over 20 years is a testament to their reliability.

But I noticed on Jim's tag axle brake chamber signs that the tag axle seal leak is not recent. One of the inspections I think everyone should do is to look for indications of a leak. A drive axle hub seal leak is easiest to note from beneath the coach so every time the coach is lubed a close look at the inner wheel will be the easiest way to check that. Tag and steer axle leaks can be easily checked any time the tires have their air pressure checked. Stick your finger through a hole in the wheel and feel the wheel. If all you get is dry brake dust, no leak. If your finger has grease on it, the seal is leaking.

At that point checking the fluid level in the hubs becomes critical until the problem can be taken care of. A little oil in the hubs in a timely manner will save some serious repair money. Do not overfill the hubs, just insure the oil level is at the bottom of the viewing area, and make sure the pin hole in the cap is open so there is no pressure build up in the hub.

Never ever allow a hub seal replacement unless the technician (or you) pre-lubes the bearings, especially on the drive axle.

[chtree]

Jim

Johnson's tire service is right down in Weldbank Pa right across the street from Hoffman Coach on Rt 6. They service most big truck and bus needs in our area. 814-723-8650.

Good luck !

Chris

[JIM CHALOUPKA]

Jon said, " But I noticed on Jim's tag axle brake chamber signs that the tag axle seal leak is not recent. One of the inspections I think everyone should do is to look for indications of a leak."

I am wondering what signs you see? The photo shows a clean and flat black painted brake chamber.

JIM

[stevet903]

Jim - Do you have a Dremel tool? If so, they make exactly what you need:

http://www.amazon.com/Dremel-511E-Co...ref=pd_cp_hi_0

or maybe these:

http://www.amazon.com/Scotch-Brite-G.../dp/B001BGU7I2

Steve

[JIM CHALOUPKA]

Jim - Do you have a Dremel tool? If so, they make exactly what you need:

http://www.amazon.com/Dremel-511E-Co...ref=pd_cp_hi_0

or maybe these:

http://www.amazon.com/Scotch-Brite-G.../dp/B001BGU7I2

Steve

Thanks Steve, I like that second link best. Just what I was looking for!

JIM