Well -- Got my new tires (19.5 commercial radials), and ordered my balancing beads. Now, I am ready to mount the tires....Except I do not know what to use as a bead lube. I have seen a soapy solution at the tire shops, but they just slop it around, getting it inside the casing and everywhere. What sould I use, to properly lubricate the bead, but not cause problems with the balancing beads?? I had one guy tell me glycerin, but I recall glycerin actually eats/deteriorates rubber slowly, possibly ruining a tire. Any and all suggestions entertained.

 

I use CRC 100% silicon spray when doing my own tires and tight fitting hoses, works great. Also good for door seals.
Napa and most hardware stores sell it.

 

the soap solution will dry quickly... those beads are ceramic, should be unaffected by the soapy water.

The air coming from many air compressors will have just as much water in it...

 

Most truck tire shops use a special bead grease they put it on with a mop

You could stop by a truck tire shop and ask for a small amount since its a expendable item for them

 

Good idea. I asked a pass. tire dealer, but they wouldn't give me any, nor tell me what to use. I don't blame them, since by doing it myself I am not giving them business. I suppose If I got good at it, I might be some sort of competition for them, changing tires on the side in my garage (not!!)

Any one here mount their own tires? Infidel -- do you just spray the tire bead down with the silicone? I would guess that the ceramic beads wouldn't stick to the afterspray, so it sounds like a quick, ease solution! I hate the thought of tearing up my new tire bead by improperly lubricating them

 

Yep, just spray down the bead, the stuff is slick. I only do tractor and motorcycle tires with it but am sure it will work just fine for a truck and not bother the beads at all.