Tire Balancing Beads

Balancing Beads provide a smooth, precision, vibration free tire and wheel assembly.

This site is dedicated to providing information on tire balance beads. Below you can see how beads work, installation, applications, benefits of bead balancing, compatibilities and tips of use.

How tire balance beads work? Can you put too many balancing beads in a tire? Application tire balance beads chart Videos Questions and Answers Buy Now A - 4 - 6oz Balance Bags $22.99 B - 4 - 8oz Balance Bags $26.99 C - 4 - 10oz Balance Bags $30.99 D - 4 - 12oz Balance Bags $34.99

Table Of Contents

• Understanding Balancing Beads
• Benefits of Bead Balancing
• Using the charts to find the Correct Balance Bags
• Installation of Balancing Beads
• Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Compatible Types of Vehicles and Applications
• Environmental and Safety Considerations
• Tips for Optimal Performance
• How do I Know if my Tires are Out of Balance?

Understanding Balancing Beads for Tires

1. Do they actually work?
   -Yes, very simply put,  they move opposite the heavy spot  to balance out the entire rotating wheel assembly.
2. How long does it take for them to start working?
   - The balance begins around 30mph. You do not feel or hear this as it happens in seconds.
3. How long do they last?
   - They are good for the life of the tread. No need for return balances as it is one and done.
4. There are different types of balancing beads.
   -  Materials include steel, glass and plastic balls. We feel our ceramic compound is the better choice as it will not cause damage and won't clump up inside the wheel like other material can do.
5. Common misconceptions about using Bead Bags.
   - The most important thing to know is they do not work for all sizes. You must check our  size charts or call us at 928-255-5540 before purchase.
6. Proper maintenance of tire balancing beads is simple.
   - The beautiful thing about this product is there is zero maintenance. It is a one-time installation and your good to go for the life of the tread.

Benefits of Bead Balancing

1. Improved tread longevity
2. Smoother and safer driving experience
3. Increased fuel efficiency
4. Reduced vibration and noise
5. Cost savings compared to traditional spin balancing methods with lead weights

Using the Charts to find the Correct Balance Bags for your Wheel Size is Crucial

1. Understanding your vehicle's wheel size is step number one.
   - Your tire size is very important. An example would be 265/70R16. The first three digits is the tire width (sidewall to sidewall) in millimeters, the next two are the sidewall ratio/height, which in this case is 70% of 265. The final two digits are the size of the rim.
2. Matching the correct size and weight of bags for your application is easy with our tire bead charts.
   - Select the type you are working with and find your size. The amount you need will be to the right and please call with any questions as we are happy to help.
3. They are Compatible with Tire Pressure Monitor Systems.
   - Our beads are 100% compatible with pressure monitor systems.

Installation of Balancing Beads

1. Preparing your wheels for installation is simple.
   - Just make sure they are clean and free of oil and heavy dirt or mud.
2. Common mistake to avoid during installation.
   - The most common is throwing the bag in. Cut the top off and drop it or pour them in.
3. Tips for achieving optimal balance is simple.
   - Do not run excessively low air pressure as it will cause problems. An example would be a 35-inch tire with a max air pressure of 80psi, on a small jeep set at 35psi for a softer ride. The second tip is please do not install into a tire size that is not on the charts without calling us first to check.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. There are a few issues that can be handled easily and the fastest way to figure it out, is to call so we can talk about any of the following possibilities:
   - Air pressure
   - Wrong amount / bag size
   - Wheel size issues
   - Difference between an out of balance vibration and a harmonic vibration
   - Out of round rims or tires
   - Problematic non standard tread wear
   - The difference between a steering wheel vibration and wobble

Tips for Optimal Performance

1. Perform regular rotations and inspection to prolong tread life.
2. Check for proper inflation on a regular basis.
3. Maintain proper cleaning of tread and wheels.

Compatible Types of Vehicles and Applications

1. Our product is great for motorcycles, ATV’s and UTV’s.
2. Many customers are reporting great results with three wheelers as well.
3. These will provide great advantages for off-road all-terrain tires and heavy-duty truck, SUV and RV type vehicles.
4. They are perfect for semi-trucks and motorhomes with commercial sizes as well.
5. Tire beads are NOT suited for any kind of racing application.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

1. Addressing concerns about potential damage.
   - This product will not damage wheels or tires.
2. Environmental impact of using balancing beads compared to other methods.
   - Checkered Flag is proud to state our ceramic compound  is 100% environmentally friendly compared to toxic lead weights. It will not break or come apart and will last the life of the tread
3. Potential health hazards and precautions.
   - Always wear eye protection while handling this product and keep away from small children as they can pose a choke hazard.

How do I know if my Tires are Out-of-Balance?

1. Signs Your Tires Need Rebalancing.
   - When a wheel-tire assembly is especially out-of-balance, you’ll likely know it right away. You’ll feel it in the steering wheel, seat or floorboards. A thumping or vibration sound that gets louder at higher speeds might also be an indicator.
2. Your Vehicle Pulls to One Side:
   - You might need an alignment, or your tires and wheels are out of balance. Have an expert check your vehicle.
3. Uneven or Fast Tread Wear:
   - If the tread on your tires appears to wear too quickly, it could be an issue with your wheel-tire assembly.
4. Shaking Steering Wheel:
   - Vibration in the steering wheel when driving could be caused by an out-of-balance issue. It could also be a bent wheel, a damaged tire or out-of-round problem (which won’t be fixed by balancing), worn suspension parts or other aging components. If you feel a vibration, don’t wait.