TPMS with Rubber Valve Stems

[Steve7]

I'm preparing for my first long trip, and have decided to buy the TST 507rv non-flow -through tire monitoring system. They state that this model is ok to use with rubber valve stems. Is anyone else using this model or other models with rubber valve stems?

I know I can purchase the valve stem stabilizers, but have read negative reviews of those not working. I also realize I can replace the rubber valve stems with metal ones, but don't want to spend the money and time unless necessary. Any advise?

[Lloyd]

Steve, I just ordered the same TPMS. I intend to use metal valve stems.
I want those things to work, and work the way they are suppose to. I have the range extender coming also.
The old saying is--if it's worth doing. it's worth doing right. A few more bucks won't break the bank.

[Steve7]

Can't argue with that Lloyd. Thanks!

[rcflyer]

Not sure who said the rubber valve stems were OK.

I can tell you from personal experience that is not true.

I tried that route and had a rubber valve stem fail on a Sunday morning about 50 miles from the nearest tire repair place.

So I put the spare on the truck and drove about 60 miles to my home. Planned to take the tire to a tire shop the next morning to have the valve stem replaced. But was not able to do so as I had another flat tire from a bad valve stem.

All four valve stems had cracked at the wheel most likely from the TMPS sensor. Also noticed marking on the wheel were it appeared the TPMS sensor was hitting the wheel.

When a rubber valve stem fails you are basically dead in the water.

[Steve7]

Thanks for reply RCFLYER. So were you using the flow through devices that you can add air today without removal, or the ones you need to take off for adding air?To play it safe I will likely replace the stems with metal.

[Dayle1]

I have had rubber valve stems fail even w/o using an external sensor. One failed as I was checking tire pressure before a trip, other failed at a fuel stop while waiting for an open pump. At least I was not on the highway when they failed.

I firmly believe that some highway tire failures are really valve stem failures initially. But who looks at the valve stem after the tire is totally destroyed along with part of the trailer?

There is a reason why the tire stores always replace rubber valve stems when you get new tires, they know the valve stems fail.

[rcflyer]

Actually I had been using Pressure Pro TPMS sensors which are basically the same size and weight as the TST non flow through sensors.

The intent of my response was for the need for metal valve stems with external TPMS sensors regardless of who makes them.

[Steve7]

I agree Dayle that those rubber stems are often the problem. I just got a quote of $15 per tire to switch them out for metal. I will be doing that.

[Steve7]

Thanks RCFLER. I know the longer ones weigh more and have more centrifugal force. It sounds like the prudent thing to do is put the metal stems in.

[Russb]

I had difficulty getting the steel stems to fit in the recessed stock aluminum wheels. I ended up grinding down stainless steel washers to fit. MFG says the new TST is ok with rubber stems. I have one wheel with a rubber stem, so far no problems. On the wheel with the rubber stem I filled the cavity with silicon to help restrict movement.

[Steve7]

Thanks for the reply Russ!