how to change four wheeler tires

3 min read 16-01-2025

Changing a flat tire on your four-wheeler, ATV, or UTV can be a daunting task, especially if you're unprepared. But with the right tools and knowledge, it's manageable. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process to help you confidently handle this situation, whether you're in the mud, on a trail, or just parked in your driveway.

1. Safety First: Preparing for the Tire Change

Before you even touch your four-wheeler, prioritize safety. This is crucial, especially in remote locations.

Essential Safety Precautions:

Level Ground: Find a stable, level surface. Avoid changing a tire on a slope.
Parking Brake: Engage your four-wheeler's parking brake firmly.
Warnings: Turn on your hazard lights if you're on a road or trail.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear sturdy gloves to protect your hands. Safety glasses are also recommended to shield your eyes from debris.
Jack Stands (Optional but Recommended): For added safety, use jack stands to support the vehicle once it's lifted. Never rely solely on the jack.
First Aid Kit: Have a first aid kit handy in case of minor injuries.

2. Gathering Your Tools

Having the right tools makes the process smoother and safer. You'll need:

Spare Tire: Ensure your spare is in good condition and properly inflated.
Jack: A jack specifically designed for ATVs or four-wheelers is ideal. A standard car jack might not be suitable.
Lug Wrench: A sturdy lug wrench that fits your four-wheeler's lug nuts. Consider a breaker bar for extra leverage if needed.
Wheel Chocks (Optional): These prevent the vehicle from rolling while you work.
Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grime.

3. Locating the Flat and Loosening the Lug Nuts

Identify the Flat: Visually inspect your tires to pinpoint the flat.
Lug Nut Loosening: Before jacking up your four-wheeler, use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Don't remove them completely yet; just break them free. This is much easier before the tire is lifted.

4. Jacking Up the Four-Wheeler

Jack Placement: Consult your four-wheeler's owner's manual to determine the correct jacking points. Improper placement can damage your machine.
Lifting: Slowly and steadily raise the four-wheeler until the flat tire is a few inches off the ground.

5. Removing the Flat Tire

Unscrew Lug Nuts: Now completely remove the lug nuts, keeping them together in a safe place to avoid losing them.
Tire Removal: Carefully pull the flat tire off the wheel hub.

6. Mounting the Spare Tire

Alignment: Align the spare tire with the wheel studs on the hub.
Mounting: Push the spare tire onto the studs until it's firmly seated.
Lug Nut Tightening: Hand-tighten the lug nuts.

7. Lowering the Four-Wheeler and Tightening the Lug Nuts

Lowering: Slowly lower your four-wheeler using the jack.
Final Tightening: Once the tire is on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts first) to ensure even pressure. Don't overtighten.

8. Final Checks and Cleanup

Tire Pressure: Check the spare tire's pressure and inflate it to the recommended PSI (found in your owner's manual).
Lug Nut Check: Double-check that all lug nuts are securely tightened.
Stow Flat Tire: Properly store the flat tire.
Clean Up: Dispose of any debris and put away your tools.

Important Considerations:

Owner's Manual: Always refer to your four-wheeler's owner's manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
Spare Tire Condition: Ensure your spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated before you need it.
Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable performing this task yourself, or if you encounter any difficulties, seek professional help. Don't risk damaging your machine or injuring yourself.

Changing a four-wheeler tire is a valuable skill. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you'll be well-prepared for unexpected flat tires on your next adventure. Remember that practice makes perfect; consider practicing the procedure in a safe environment before you actually need to change a tire in the field.