Troubleshooting Failed Valve Stems on 8" Tires

Updated 10/03/2025 | Published 10/02/2025

Question:

Two of my 8 inch tire hi pressure valve stems have failed. I have three other tires that are likely to fail. What can I do to prevent this product failure.

asked by: Kenneth C

Expert Reply:

Hey Kenneth, thanks for reaching out!

Immediately what comes to mind is swapping out your valve stems to the Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem # AM20906 because it's rated for up to 200 psi that way we can just get it fixed. But the problem with that is I don't think we'll be properly diagnosing what's going on.

Just to start out and check some boxes, do you have your tires filled to the max psi rating listed out on the sidewall of the tire, and do you know if you're under or over the speed and weight ratings for your tires?

expert reply by: Jon G

Kenneth C.

10/3/2025

Jon, I try to keep the tire pressure close to 90 psi but it can occasionally go down to 80 psi. I don't worry about that because the trailer load is well below max weight. Both valve stems that failed had tears in the rubber on the bottom. Could the galvanizing on the rim cause this? Would I be able to install the AM20906 myself? I appreciate your support, Ken Charles

Jon G.

10/3/2025

@KennethC The galvanization could potentially do that, yes. The metal valve stem is easy enough to install. The hardest part will be removing the tire from the wheel to gain access to the inside of the wheel. If you're confident you can do that, then installing the stem itself will be a piece of cake!