AIR CHANNEL MOUNTING DETAIL

BLIN-10 -Rev3

Problem: The Air Channel (AC) does not air down the tire without first deflating the beadlock inner tube.

Background: Most likely, the BL case outside Bead was mis-installed. The arrowed red line in Fig. 1 shows how the BL case Bead was improperly placed directly on the metal of the rim’s drop center, below the AC.

Fig.1

Fig. 2

This leads to the Bead struggling to move up and on top of the AC envelope in the direction of the arrows. This tears (uncovers) the leading edge of the envelope and exposes the metal end of the AC. The high-pressure inner tube can now seal off the exposed metal valve stem opening and prevent airing down.

Solution: Here’s how a successful Bead installation starts. Put the case Bead up and on the AC envelope about ½ to ¾ inch. This prevents the Bead from otherwise struggling up from the rim drop center and onto the metal end of the AC.

Fig. 3

A conventional Raceline mechanical beadlock rim offers a “backward” look at the same objective, putting the BL Bead up and on the AC envelope. It’s like you are looking through the outside part of the rim. “1” is the BL case Bead. “2” is the BL case Sidewall. “3” is the AC envelope and “4” is the inner tube (red arrow). Note how the BL Bead is up and on the AC envelope. It is not on the tube or down in the drop center. The metal valve stem is bottom, center (unnumbered).

Fig. 4

Be cautious with this suggestion! Oil is the enemy of a seated BL Bead. Conservatively lubricate the AC envelope just above the Bead with an oil-dampened Q-Tip. This helps the Bead freely move to its proper position as the beadlock is inflated. Avoid putting oil on the Bead or any other part of the BL or rim.

Fig. 5

As Mickey Mouse as this sounds, it works. It provides a smoother path for the Bead movement on the AC. It also keeps the AC in place during other installation steps. First, put a piece of your best duct tape from the drop center up and onto a properly aligned AC envelope. Second, move the Bead up and onto the tape about ½ to ¾ inch.

Fig. 6

Our Installation Manual shows you more details

Fig. 7

Fig. 8

View our installation video

Finger-muscling the Bead up and on the AC requires great single finger strength and that you work “by feel” in an area that you cannot see. I use a groomed motorcycle tire spoon* as pictured. Hook the groomed end under the Bead and pull up and on the AC.

* This is from a 1956 BSA Gold Star Isle of Mann 500cc single motorcycle that I raced in AMA district 37. Jim Hunter of Brute, Bonneville fame was my mentor.