Any good technique to swap out tires

[YeeMurano]

It is that time again we need to swap out our summer wheels for winter ones. These wheels are heavy (I'm guessing they are over 60 lbs each).

Does anyone have a good technique or know of a device to make the changeover a bit easier?

Thanks

[MuranoDriver]

Do you mean changing the actual tires on the same wheels? Or do you mean you have an entirely different set of winter wheels/tires?

If you only have one set of wheels and need to change the tires on the same wheels then you definitely have to go to a tire shop to get that done.

If you have another set of wheels and tires then you just need a good jack, some jack stands, tire iron, and maybe 30 minutes if you're quick and an hour if you take your time.

how to change wheels on a car - Google Search

How to Switch the Wheels on a Car: 15 steps - wikiHow

How to Change the Wheels on a Car | eHow.com

[YeeMurano]

I have a set of winter tires already mounted on wheels. Since these wheels are quite heavy, by the time you lift a wheel and align them with the 5 bolts is not that easy. I try to eye ball the holes with the bolts but it does takes a few trys before getting it in. Is there a techique I can do it on the first shot.

[MuranoDriver]

You can sit on your butt with your legs out and have the wheel in your lap and your face will be a lot closer to see the bolts as well as saving your back from straining.

[hokey777]

I raise the car just high enough so the tires just barely lift off the ground. That way the tire rests on the ground when it goes back on. Other than that, they are a pain getting back on - glad I'm not the only one that finds it difficult.

[Pilgrim]

Yup. Jack it up to get the tire just off the ground, and try not to take the load all on your back.

I sometimes kneel down on one knee, lay my forearm across the other and grab a spoke on the wheel with that hand, so the load is carried by my forearm resting on my thigh/knee. Don't smash your fingers if you try that.

The most simple trick is positioning the wheel before you lift it so that you can set it directly over the lugs. Hitting that target on the first heave saves you a lot of grunting.

You just have to wrestle the darn things, and the process is a reminder why there are benefits to tire and wheel sizes smaller than 18 or 20 inches.

[nitely]

A regular workout should help alot. Lift some weights.

No need to overdo it........................Body-builder shows off 'world's biggest biceps' after being crowned by Guinness Book of World Records - Daily Record

[red kiosk]

Originally Posted by MuranoDriver

You can sit on your butt with your legs out and have the wheel in your lap and your face will be a lot closer to see the bolts as well as saving your back from straining.

I pretty much do this PLUS put on the back brace belt! Take care!

Jim

[Pilgrim]

If you sit on your butt and stick your feet forward, you can use them to lever the tire upward. DO NOT do this without having the car safely supported!!