VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1929-1932 Leaking valve stem, new tire tube

Hello everyone,

I'm almost finished with my wife's car (a diversion from working on my '31). I also recently got a job within 2 miles of my house so I'm hoping to start driving the '31 on a more daily basis (weather permitting).

Recently had a flat. Found the valve stem was leaking. I need a new tube. I've searched the site and found that some have talked about metal/brass or rubber valve stems. When I order tubes, will these all be made together or do I have to order these parts separately? Is it like a bicycle where I just pull the stem through the wheel? I know I need to have rubber bands if it doesn't already have them.

I've found on the site where others have ordered their tubes from Summit racing, but I can't find them on the site. Is there a part number anyone would happen to know? I have the original wheels on my '31 Coach.

Thanks,
Brandon

The stems will be part of the tube. You might want to check your rim and note how the valve stem is located. It will be either in the center of the rim or offset to one side. You should be able to locate a vendor online.

Model A part suppliers carry the tubes as the '31 Chevy tires are the same as later Model As. Originally were metal stem tubes but later rubber replacements. You can order metal stem tubes or order and install metal stems by cutting off rubber stem. Coker Tire and other tire dealers also carry the tubes.

Thanks guys. I guess I'd have to see a metal valve stem to understand it. I can't quite seem to imagine what that must look like.

I've done searches on wheel, wheel size and a few others. Can someone remind me what size wheel the '31 Chevrolet has?

Thanks,
brandon

A picture of a metal tube stem from Snyder Antique Auto online catalog. This is the stem that is used to replace the rubber stem in a tube. Tubes with metal stems can also be purchased.

1931 Chevys used 4.75 x 19" tires.

That's interesting. How would you mount that to a tube without it leaking after you've cut the old rubber stem off? I guess you'd just cut the rubber and sandwich it between the base of the metal stem and that little plate?

I hope to maybe get the tube in by this weekend so I went ahead and bundled up and went out to the garage with a flashlight and from what I can determine, for future reference, the part number for the tube needed is:

Coker 86400

That is exactly what you do. Have installed several of them without a leak yet.

Here's a youtube for installing the stem. The 31 Chevy doesn't use that cover but uses the cover that's about an inch long & then the cap has the Schrader remover on all tires...right Chipper?...Joe

Brandon, Coker Tire in Chattanooga carries the correct tubes made up with the correct metal stems. I've bought five sets from them and they've been right on the money every time. Since they're close by, it might be a great place to get your tube(s).

All the Best,Chip

Good video.

Yup, schrader cap rim washer though I would call it the nut or retainer as it is what tightens the stem to the rim.

Yep. Those are the pieces. Thanks for the correct terms. Those are what show up on the high resolution picture from GM...Joe

Very Cool...
like the look and the concept. Also that you can order the tubes with the metal stems already insalled is a nice option if ordering new tubes.

I haven't watched the video yet, so this may be answered within it, but what is a shrader cap?

It is the picture above on the left. Covers the end of the valve stem.

And the complete valve stem assembly is referred to as a Schrader valve, named after the company that first made them.

Oh, Ok. I thought maybe that valve cover with the tip that lets you remove the core might specifically make it a shrader valve or something like that.