|
2torial #0621:
Learn2
Change a Flat Tire
Fix that sinking feeling!
Few people like to change a tire. But if you can
follow simple directions, this is a good
opportunity to revoke your "mechanically
incompetent" status. You'll also save time, money
and stress, and your passengers will consider you
the greatest thing since sliced bread. With this
2torial you'll be back on the road in a jiffy.
To change a tire (or more accurately, a wheel
with a tire on it), you need another to replace it.
Many car owners haven't checked the spare since
they bought the car.
- Take the time to look for your spare
tire. Under the floor of the trunk and under
the rear of a truck are the usual spots. Whether
it's a full-size tire or one of those small,
low-quality, high-pressure ones, make sure that
it's properly inflated and easily accessible.
- While you're exploring the car, check
the car's jack as well, especially if you bought
the car used. It's not uncommon for the jack to
be missing or incomplete. Find that out now,
before you need to use it.
Most cars come with a lug nut remover that's
nearly useless... it's small, it slips, and it
gives you no leverage. Go to an auto supply store
and buy one that's shaped like a cross. They
generally have three different sized sockets, plus
a pry end, and give you a much better shot at
removing a frozen wheel lug. Just make sure that
one of the sockets fits your wheel's lugs securely
before you leave the parking lot.
Step
1
|