Getting a flat tire happens when you least expect it. It’s even worse when you’re off-roading. Tire shops are not exactly close by when going off the beaten path, and it costs a not-so-small fortune for a recovery vehicle to make its way to you. Knowing how to fix a flat is crucial to getting home safe and sound.
But how do you do it? 4 Wheel Parts has you covered. Our comprehensive guide is a must-read before heading into the dunes, mountains, or wherever your adventure takes you. You’ll learn the steps on how to change a flat tire, the supplies needed, and most importantly, the required tools to remove a tire when it happens.
Safety Tips to Avoid a Flat Tire When Off-Roading
Trail trekking is an entirely different style of driving compared to doing it on public streets. On the road, you have to stay within the lines and follow the speed limit. Sounds easy. Right?
That all changes when you’re out in the wilderness. Conquering new terrain becomes challenging yet fun. Crossing that peak and going over creeks and mud holes pose hidden dangers. But “danger” is your middle name. Luckily, there are safety precautions one can take to ensure the trip doesn’t get cut short.
Plan Ahead
Whether you go out alone or have a co-pilot, inspecting the trail is always good, especially if it’s your first time out. Move any sharp objects, including rocks, branches, and other debris left behind.
Slow and Steady
As the old saying goes, slow and steady wins the race. Unless you’re running the Baja 1000, there is no reason to hurry things up. A well-thought-out plan and careful maneuvering will significantly reduce the chance of a flat tire when off-roading.
Be Prepared
There is no such thing as being over-prepared. You never know what is going to happen when venturing out for the day or weekend. Bring enough survival supplies such as drinks, food, and sleeping bags if you have to spend the night. Even if you go for a few hours, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Food and supplies are one thing, but if you or the others in your group don’t have the right tools to change a flat tire, making it out safely will be an uphill battle. 4 Wheel Parts has a section dedicated below to ensuring you have the basics covered.
Steps to Change a Flat in Off-Road Terrain
So, after all the safety precautions, the inevitable happened. You got a flat. Don’t stress. It happens to everyone. Here are the steps needed to get out of the woods and back on the roads.
Assess the Damage
Get out and see where the damage is. Did you pop a bead, or did a sharp object puncture your tire? If the tire lost air due to a small puncture, a tire repair kit could get out of harm’s way quickly. Otherwise, it’s time to change it.
Get to Flat Ground
Try finding a flat spot. It can be challenging, but it’s ideal if you don’t want any surprises when taking off your tire. There are other options if the flat ground isn’t in the cards. Putting a rock or set of ramps behind the wheels will stop your vehicle from moving when jacked up. Lastly, make sure your vehicle is in gear.
Jack It Up
One of the most important tools to remove a tire is the jack. And since you’re off-roading, a stock scissor jack isn’t going to cut it. Consider adding an off-road jack to your arsenal. A jack pad completes the package, but it isn’t absolutely necessary.
Take Off The Lug Nuts
The next step involves taking off the lug nuts. A 4-way cross-wrench or telescoping L wrench is something you should never leave home without it. Looking to step it up to the next level? Come prepared with a battery-powered impact gun and socket to make easy work of those hard-to-remove lug nuts.
Remove the Wheel
Once the lugs are off, the wheel should be free. But we all know they sometimes are a little hard to remove. A helping hand from a sledgehammer will complete the process. No hammer around? A swift kick might work, or the closest branch or rock will do the trick. Although the latter are rudimentary solutions, they will work.
Install the New Wheel
Out with the old and in with the new. Installing the new wheel is easy. You should always have a spare one with you when navigating challenging terrain. A tire carrier is a great alternative to keeping your spare tire safe and secure. The last thing you want is a heavy object bouncing around your trunk or back seat area.
Tighten the Lug Nuts
Place the wheel on the hub and hand-tighten all bolts. After that, lower the vehicle back down and permanently secure each bolt in a star pattern with your cross-wrench or impact gun. Ideally, every bolt should be tightened to spec, but that can be done once back on solid ground.
Tools to Have on Hand in Case of a Flat Tire
There is no such thing as having too many tools. Your partner may think otherwise, but when it comes to off-roading, it’s a necessity. Here is a list of the tools to have on hand in case of a flat tire.
Air Compressor
A portable air compressor is a must-have addition to your off-road equipment bag. Air compressors are invaluable if you have a small leak or want to air down for more traction. An onboard air system is another option if you’re looking to take it up a notch.
Jack
If you don’t have an off-road jack, invest in one. They are great when the terrain isn’t perfect and can handle more weight than their standard counterparts. Plus, lifting up a jacked-up vehicle just won’t work with a stock jack.
Tire Wrench
A telescoping L wrench is essential when removing your lug nuts on the trail. Make sure you get one that has multiple sockets for various nuts. Its compact size doesn’t take up too much room and is easily stowed away.
Tire Repair Kit
A tire repair kit is great for a slow leak or small punctures. A kit can get you out of a pinch and takes up less space than a spare tire. However, the kit shouldn’t replace a full-sized spare.
Final words
Off-roading is about having fun, but staying safe is essential. The tools and tips listed above will help in the unfortunate event that you get a flat tire. Check out 4 Wheel Parts’ wide selection of accessories to help make the most out of your next outdoor adventure.
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