Changing a UTV tire can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little know-how, it can be done quickly and easily.
UTVs are fun leisure vehicles, but they are also important for many outdoor jobs. Keeping your tires in good shape will help them last longer.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process of maintaining and replacing UTV tires.
Importance of Tires on a UTV
Tires are an essential component of any vehicle, including UTVs. They provide the necessary traction and stability to keep the vehicle on the road and ensure the safety of the passengers. Tires also play a crucial role in the performance and handling of the vehicle, as they affect its ability to accelerate, brake, and maneuver.
How Often Should I Change My Tires?
The frequency of replacing your UTV tires will depend on several of factors, including the type of tire, the conditions in which you use the UTV, and your driving habits. Here are a few conditions that warrant a tire replacement:
Tires typically have a tread wear indicator, which is a small, raised bar or groove that appears when the tread depth has worn down to 2/32 of an inch. This is an indication that the tire needs to be replaced.
If the UTV is used for off-road or heavy-duty work, the tires may wear out faster and need to be replaced more frequently.
Tires that are under or over-inflated, or that are out of alignment, will wear out more quickly.
If you notice any signs of wear and tear, such as uneven tread wear, punctures, or sidewall bulges, replace them immediately.
In general, you should have your tires inspected at least once a year and more frequently if they’re showing signs of wear.
Tires are the only point of contact between your UTV and the ground, thus the safety of the vehicle and the passengers is highly dependent on the tires’ condition. Regularly checking the pressure, alignment, and tread depth can helpprolong their life, but if in doubt, it’s best to consult with a professional or refer to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Different Types of Tires
There are several types of tires available for UTVs and each is designed for specific uses and conditions. Here are some of the most common types of UTV tires to consider before changing a UTV tire:
All-terrain tires- These tires are designed for use on an array of surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and light off-road conditions. They have a more aggressive tread pattern than street tires and are designed to provide better traction and stability on loose surfaces.
Mud tires: Mud tires are designed for use in wet and muddy conditions. They have a deep, aggressive tread pattern that helps to clear mud and debris from the tire and are designed to provide maximum traction in tough conditions.
Sand tires- These tires are optimal for sandy conditions, such as dunes or beaches. They have a wide, paddle-like tread pattern that helps to provide maximum floatation in soft sand.
Rock tires- Rock tires are designed for use on rocky terrain. They have a deep, aggressive tread pattern that helps to provide maximum traction on rocks and are designed to resist punctures and abrasions.
Turf tires- These tires work best on lawns, grass, and other soft ground. They have a low-profile, non-aggressive tread pattern that helps to minimize damage to the ground and provide better traction on soft surfaces.
Street tires: Street tires are intended for use on pavement and are like the tires found on cars. They have a smooth, low-profile tread pattern that provides good traction and stability on the pavement.
How to Change a Tire on a UTV
Changing a UTV tire by hand is a straightforward process, but it does require some basic tools and knowledge. Here are the general steps forchanging a tire on a UTV:
Gather the necessary tools- You will need a jack, lug wrench, and wheel chocks to change the tire on your UTV.
Park the vehicle on a level surface- It’s essential to park the UTV on a level surface to ensure that the jack is stable and the vehicle doesn't move while you're changing the tire.
Chock the wheels- Place wheel chocks behind the tires on the opposite side of the vehicle to prevent the UTV from rolling while you're changing the tire.
Loosen the lug nuts- Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you're going to change. Do this while the wheel is still on the ground so the wheel doesn't move while you're trying to remove it.
Jack up the UTV- Use the jack to raise the UTV off the ground. Make sure the jack is positioned correctly and that the UTV is stable before you begin to remove the wheel.
Remove the wheel- Once the UTV is jacked up, remove the wheel from the hub by pulling it straight off. Be careful not to damage the brake rotor or other components in the process.
Replace the tire- Put the new tire on the hub and make sure it is seated correctly.
Replace the wheel- Replace the wheel on the hub and line up the holes with the studs.
Replace lug nuts- Replace the lug nuts and use the lug wrench to tighten them.
Lower the UTV- Carefully lower the UTV back to the ground using the jack.
Check the tire pressure- Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in the new tire and adjust it as needed.
Test drive- Finally, take the UTV for a test drive to ensure that everything is working properly and that the new tire is correctly seated.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when changing a UTV tire by hand and seek professional help if you encounter problems.
Visit Terra Rider UTV Windshields and Accessories
Do you have questions about replacing UTV tires or changing UTV tires by hand? TerraRider UTV Windshields & Accessories has everything you need!
We're in Salt Lake City, and we'd be delighted to see you at our shop. We sell Can-Am, Kawasaki, and Polaris brand windshields and accessories. If you need it, we almost probably have it or can get it for you. Tocontact us, please call 801.923.6347 or fill out the form on our website. We look forward to hearing from you!
