Hollow Spoke Tire Valves

[38F3E1]

A quick question if anybody knows the answer on this. I have to replace the rear tires on my 18" hollow spokes. Current tires have been on for about 5 years.

Do I need to replace the metal tire valves with new at the same time?

With a standard setup I would replace the rubber tire valves as a matter of course. But as these have the genuine Porsche hollow spoke metal valves fitted I am not sure whether to replace or not. I believe they do have a small rubber washer on the inner side of the fitting but it does not get exposed to light or dirt. No leaks in current tires and valves BTW.

Ian.

 

[pse_SC]

You probably don't need to replace them, but might be worth it while you're there[]. Easily done while the tyres are replaced.
They're not that expensive from OPC - just replaced a couple on my fronts, as one was slightly damaged and wasn't allowing proper inflation.
Had not replaced any others over the years as a matter of course otherwise - they've been fine.

 

[gm997_1]

+1

Mine have not been changed at any point in the last 5/6 years or before, Ian, and the tyres have always been replaced by a Porsche-approved bodyshop / wheel geometry specialist, so I'd say it's pretty safe to assume you only need to change any of them if you are aware of any deterioration in function/performance.
And as you say, yours are holding air fine.

 

[IndischRot]

There are 3 "wear" items on the hollow spoke wheel valves: the two rubber washers that seal the valve to the wheel body and the valve insert. The washers aren't available separately so if they're perished or torn you'll need a new valve. The 3rd "wear" item is the core or insert in the valve itself which is a standard part and they're usually OK.

The torque for tightening the valve to the wheel is quite low - it's easy to over-tighten the valve and tear the washers. The spec is only 3.5 NM so finger tight. The base of the valve should be held with a screwdriver to keep it from turning and damaging the bottom seal.

And last but not least I have two new valves for sale in the site's classifieds.

 

[ChasR]

From other cars I have had with metal tyre valves (including the moderns I would agree that it is wise precaution to change the tyre seals. It is paramount that the valves themselves are not overtightened. Saying that, the modern's valves only started leaking after 6 years!