Retrofitting winter tires with your own hands: step-by-step instructions and tips

When the spikes on winter tires start to fall out, car owners are thinking about restoring traction without contacting the service. Studding is a process in which new or repair spikes are installed in a tire. In theory, it can be done with your own hands. However, it is important to understand how safe and effective this approach will be. All the details are in the Izvestia article.

What is doshipping and in what cases is it needed?

Studding is the replacement or restoration of spikes on a winter tire. It is relevant if the tread still retains sufficient depth, and tire wear is not critical. Otherwise, an attempt at self-intervention may damage the tire and reduce its tightness.

For many car owners, the idea of retrofitting looks economically justified. But if the tires are already worn out or damaged, the cost of installing the spikes yourself may not pay off, and purchasing new kits would be a more reasonable solution.

What you need for self-finishing

To complete the finishing yourself, you will need not only attention and accuracy, but also a certain set of tools and materials. To work, you will need spikes that are suitable in size and design, as well as a tool that will allow you to fix them in the tread without damage.

Drivers often use a drill or screwdriver, special mandrels for installing spikes, and lubricants such as silicone grease or soap solution to facilitate the process and protect the spikes and tread. To accurately control the depth of the landing, it is important to have a measuring tool that allows you to assess the correctness of the installation. Even minimal preparation requires time and care: every mistake at this stage can affect the grip of tires on the road and the uniformity of their wear.

How is the finishing process going?

Additional studding begins with inspection and cleaning of tires, removal of old or weakened spikes. Next, the preparation of the seats is carried out — the careful formation of holes for new elements and their fixation.

After installing the spikes, it is important to evaluate the result, making sure that each element is fixed correctly. New tires require running-in, during which the grip and the operation of the spikes on the road are checked. This stage allows you to identify weak points and prevents premature wear.

Professional doweling and its advantages

Contacting the service ensures the use of specialized equipment and the expertise of specialists. This guarantees the accuracy of the installation, reduces the risk of damage and allows you to maintain the warranty on the tires, which manufacturers can cancel upon self-studding.

On the other hand, a professional service requires time and money. Some services may require pre-registration, and the cost of work is higher than self-installation. It is important for a car owner to weigh these factors and choose the appropriate option.

Is it worth risking on your own

Retrofitting winter tires with your own hands can extend the life of the tread and save money, but the process requires care and a suitable tool. Lack of experience or equipment can lead to tire damage and reduce safety on the road.

In case of any doubt, it is better to contact specialists in order to maintain the effectiveness and reliability of the clutch. Careful attention to the condition of the tires directly affects safety in winter conditions.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.