How to Wire a Car Tube
Cars, trucks, and even some motorcycles don’t have tyres with inner tubes anymore. It was about 60 years ago that car tires started to transition away from this type of tyre. This was largely because of the development of synthetic rubber compounds in the 1920s that allowed for a sturdier tyre that didn’t need an inner tube.
The most common tube sizes are TR13 (3/8-inch diameter and 1-1/2-inch tall) for most modern wheel production, and TR15 (5/8-inch diameter and 1-1/2-inch to 2-inch tall) for older wheels. We also offer tubes with rubber or metal stems. Older applications often use other valve stem types, such as TR135, TR127, or TR440.
Valve Stem Sizing Plays Into the Tube Fitment
One of the most important things to remember when buying a new tube is that it must match up with the diameter and circumference of the wheel. If you try to use a tube that is too large, it will not sit properly within the tire. This can result in a poorer ride and a compromised safety rating.
We have many different sizes available, so make sure to read the product description carefully. We recommend inflating the tube slightly before measuring against the wheel’s size well, so that you can get an accurate measurement.
Wiring a Car
You can wire a car in a variety of ways, but the most commonly used is through a wiring rail that is screwed to the body of the vehicle and runs through the engine compartment. It’s great for getting power to all sorts of things in the back, including brake lights, fuel gauge senders, and other weird stuff.
Blue ENT/Smurf Tube
You’ll probably see a few blocks of this sort of wired conduit under the hood and around the engine compartment, usually on either side of the block. This kind of wiring is known as Blue ENT, and it’s tough as nails. You can stack blocks on a single rail and add a wire to it as you need it, making this a great way to make the most of your electrical system.
Soldering a Wire
Another method for wiring a car is through the use of Western Union splices. It involves twisting wires together with a rosin core solder (not acid core) and then using a flameless torch to heat the joints. Then, place a shrink wrap tube over the joint to protect it from damage.
It is recommended that you not use a high-wattage soldering gun to attach the wires, because it can generate voltage spikes that can cause damage to electronic components. Instead, a 15-35 watt pencil-type soldering iron or a flameless torch with a rosin core solder tip is ideal.
It’s also important to choose the right wire size for your application. If you have a splintering issue with the existing wire, you should consider installing a wire splice to eliminate the problem. The splice should be made in a way that doesn’t leave a tail in the middle, which can weaken the joint.