Tire changer questions/suggestions?

[Jagged]

I'm looking for a manual tire changer for wheels ranging from motorcycle to minitruck (S-10).

Like most everyone, I'm a cheapass... just looking for something that won't destroy my wheels while costing me less.

I'll be acquiring some nice spoons to try to avoid damaging wheels, so my only main concern is the apparatus itself.

The tire changing experience I have is running Snap-On pneumatic machines (car tires through 32" LT tires). I figure a manual changer is the same methodology, just a bit more manual labor.

My main problem in this endeavor is I don't have a garage, so whatever I end up with has to fit in my outside storage (something between a shed and an exterior closet... about 4'x8' with a bunch of random **** in it).

I also need to pick up a compressor. I'm trying to keep this combination under $300. I don't run air tools, the main purpose of the compressor would be for tire inflation and seating beads. For my purposes, I have an electric angle grinder and Snap-On cordless electric impact that suits my needs.

What say ye?

 

[TerryD]

The club has a HF unit clamped on some 2" stock you put in a receiver hitch. It works pretty good! I've used it on aluminum wheels before, and it worked ok. Just have to go slowly.

I've also used a high-lift to break the beads and tire-spoons to get the tires on and off. You don't need any kinda changer for spoons to work, just a hard surface.

Grubb has a manual changer from TSC. It works ok, but we did about 3 hours of welding and grinding on the head and had to retube the handle when it buckled.

As for a compressor, I've never had trouble seating a bead with my little 12v unit I carry in the jeep. But if you are going to buy a compressor, go all out. Min 60 gal, 3hp.

 

[Jagged]

But if you are going to buy a compressor, go all out. Min 60 gal, 3hp.

Where would I put it?

 

[dhcomp]

For your use, get a basic compressor at home depot. Just look at the flow rates, and don't get the absolute crappiest one.

I've got small, oiless twin tank design one. And its loud, but does just fine for airing up and basic pneumatic tools.

 

[TerryD]

Where would I put it?

Get one of those cheap rubbernaid sheds to set up around the skid and use a drier plug with SO cord out the window.