Be kind ...
if I set up a tubeless wheel and the tyre has previously had a puncture, presumably it will leak unless you put sealant in. I'm guessing that usually you'd want to check for leaks before messing the thing up with sealant. So do I need to patch the tyre before beginning?
Unless the hole is massive putting sealant in should fix it as that's what it does. Obviously it will lose some air doing it so don't be disheartened. If you know where the hole it a tiny dab of tyre cement or super glue will seal it before hand
I’d definitely patch on the inside first. And make sure it’s absolutely dry.
Yeah, think I'd patch the inside first too. If it doesn't go up the first time at least it's one less thing to have to consider redo-ing (it'll probably be the valve if it does happen, or at least seems to be with me)
You'll want sealant come what may so just buy a pint now. Also buy a tubeless repair kit. Weldtite make a decent one.
Depends on the size of the puncture
Small? Leave and let the sealant do its job.
Medium? A tyre plug - good for the life of the tyre IME.
Large? Mushroom patch or similar
Sealant = always
Then as per scienceofficer.
I have found the rubber patches better than feather edge for sticking to the inside of a tire if using a conventional puncture outfit.
A supply of anchovies / tubeless plugs and a tool to put them in is a worthwhile investment. Slug plug isn't bad for £10.
Thanks all. My thought was just that it would be good to check for no leaks through the valve, poor tape job etc. before adding sealant, but that a hole in the tyre would defeat that strategy 🙁
Just whack it all together from the get go.
The thing then is if you have any small trace leaks then the sealant gets them as well rather than chasing perfection with the patches let the sealant do the work 😁.
Make sure the valve core is screwed into the valve properly. I just put a new valve in a wheel and found the core was loose but only after some frantic pumping.
When I put valves in I push the valve down into the rim with my thumb and then tighten the lock ring with fingers with the other hand. That squishes the valve tight into the rim without making it so tight you need pliers trailside if you need to put a tube in.
One other thing.
Nothing worse than finding you're losing air from poor tape install or bead not seating and having everything covered in sealant. So seat the tyre first using a bit of soapy water on the bead if required. Then when the tyre is seated, add the sealant.
