An automotive technician is performing an industry-standard (USTMA/RMA) permanent one-piece patch-and-plug repair on a punctured tubeless radial passenger tire. In what sequential order should the technician execute the steps of this repair procedure?
- 1Dismount the tire from the wheel rim and inspect the inner liner thoroughly for hidden structural or run-flat damage.
- 2Probe and ream the puncture injury channel from the inside out to clean away damaged steel belt wires and establish uniform diameter.
- 3Clean and mechanically buff the inner liner rubber around the injury with a low-speed buffer to create a velvety, textured surface.
- 4Apply fast-drying chemical vulcanizing cement to the buffed area and allow it to dry completely until tacky.
- 5Pull the combination patch-plug stem through the puncture channel from the inside and stitch the patch base firmly with a serrated mechanical roller.
Answer
Dismount and inspect the inner liner → Ream the puncture channel → Buff the inner liner surface → Apply chemical vulcanizing cement → Install the patch-plug and stitch with a roller
The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) and standard automotive service procedures mandate that any puncture repair must begin with dismounting the tire for internal inspection. Next, the injury channel is prepared by reaming out damaged steel cords. The inner liner must then be mechanically textured by low-speed buffing and coated with vulcanizing cement. Once the cement is dry, the combination patch-plug is installed from the inside and stitched with a roller to expel air.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Standard radial tire puncture repair requires a combination patch-and-plug unit applied from the inside out following strict preparation, buffing, cementing, and stitching stages.
Estimated Time:1m 15s