APS 3000: Change Carbon Fiber Wheel Assemblies

Changing tires on carbon fiber wheels requires extra care to avoid damage to the delicate material. This guide walks you through the pre-flight checks and step-by-step tire-changing process using the Coats APS-3000, ensuring your carbon fiber rims remain in perfect condition.

Pre-Flight Check: Preparing the Equipment

Before starting the tire change, it’s essential to conduct a pre-flight check to ensure the machine is in optimal condition and prevent any potential issues. Here are the key components to inspect:

1. Inspect Components

Make sure that all key components of the machine are in working order. This includes inspecting the general condition of the machine, ensuring that all moving parts are functional, and checking for any signs of wear or damage.

2. Clean the Machine

A clean machine is essential for smooth operation. Ensure that all surfaces are free of dirt and debris, as this can affect the tire-changing process, especially when handling sensitive carbon fiber wheels.

3. Replace Consumables

Replace any worn-out or used consumables before starting. This includes rubber pieces or any part that comes into direct contact with the tire or rim. Using fresh components will reduce the risk of scratching or damaging the carbon fiber surface.

Pre-Flight Check: Key Machine Components

Once the general condition of the machine is inspected, the next step is to check specific parts of the machine:

1. Pedestal

Ensure the pedestal, the base that holds the machine, is secure and stable. This will provide a sturdy foundation when working with heavy rims and tires.

2. Upper and Lower Rollers

Check the upper and lower rollers for wear or damage. These components handle the majority of the pressure during the tire removal and installation process, so their condition is critical for ensuring a smooth operation.

3. Leverless Head

Inspect the entire leverless head, which is responsible for engaging with the tire beads without damaging the wheel. Carbon fiber wheels are especially sensitive to pressure, so this tool must be in perfect condition.

4. Center Locking Mechanism

Examine the center locking mechanism, which holds the wheel securely during the tire-changing process. It must be firm and stable to prevent any unnecessary movement that could scratch the rims.

Pre-Flight Check: Other Essential Items

1. Leverless Head Plastic Pieces

Ensure all plastic components on the leverless head are intact. These plastic pieces are what protect the carbon fiber rims from scratches or damage during the tire removal and mounting process.

2. Center Cone on the Lock

The center cone on the lock should be properly aligned and functional. This part plays a significant role in ensuring that the wheel is held securely in place, preventing any unnecessary movement.

3. Lube

Make sure you have sufficient lube available, as it will help in reducing friction between the tire and the rim. Proper lubrication is crucial when working with sensitive materials like carbon fiber to avoid cracking or chipping.

4. Lube Brush

Finally, ensure that the lube brush is clean and ready for use. The brush allows you to apply lube evenly on the tire bead, facilitating smoother mounting and demounting of the tire.

Step-by-Step Tire Changing Process

Now that the pre-flight check is complete, you’re ready to begin changing the tire on your carbon fiber wheels using the Coats APS-3000.

1. Breaking the Beads: Use the machine’s leverless head and bead breaker to carefully release the beads from the rim without applying excessive pressure.
2. Mounting the Wheel: Place the wheel securely onto the center locking mechanism, ensuring it’s firmly in place.
3. Demounting the Tire: Using the leverless head, gently lift and remove the top and bottom beads of the tire, ensuring that the tool doesn’t come into contact with the carbon fiber rim.
4. Mounting the New Tire: Once the old tire is removed, carefully position the new tire onto the rim. Use the machine’s rollers and the lube applied earlier to ease the process.
5. Seating the Beads: After mounting, use the machine’s bead seating system to lock the beads into place on the rim. This process should be smooth, and the beads should seat without excessive force.
6. Final Inspection: Check the mounted tire and rim for any potential damage or improper alignment before moving on.

Precision with Carbon Fiber Wheels

Changing tires on carbon fiber wheels requires precision and attention to detail. By following these pre-flight checks and using the Coats APS-3000 tire changer, you can ensure that your wheels remain undamaged while achieving a professional result. With the right technique and proper equipment, you’ll be able to handle even the most sensitive tire and rim combinations with ease.