OT Tire patch vs plug

I've plugged my own for years - never a problem. I fail to see how it's "unsafe".

A plug was always considered a temporary repair. Many tire dealers in my area will patch a tire for free.

While many consider a plug a temporary fix, as you state it has been the norm for many years. I think most tire shops started getting away from the plugs when the higher speed rated tires became more popular, or when people started driving low speed tires at a high speed. :-) There are plugs now that have an umbrella type patch on them that install like a plug. The umbrella part spreads out inside the tire and when pulled tight it seals from the inside. Now you have a double seal and I think should be safe for any tire except racing. If you are interested I can get the brand name tomorrow as I think they may only be available from distributors rather than retail outlets. HTH, davidj92

Hey All

Thanks for the replies. Guess it's very similar to medicine these days; Cover Your A## Now that I've heard from ya'll going back to the hardware store to buy a couple more plugging kits. Ahh........ some of the old things are still fun to do. :) Mark

My local tire repair guy said that a plug alone (depending on installation technique and tire) could separate the tread layers and allow an air bubble to form between the layers. A patch alone could let road water enter and rust the steel belts. A patch plug (new-fangled combo repair part) solves both problems for the best repair - no air or water can infiltrate the tread. For a buck or so extra I think it's worth it.

JustDave