Does the TST Cap Sensor Work with Metal or Rubber Valve Stems?

Updated 05/25/2026 | Published 05/20/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem - 1-1/4" Long

(621)

$21.95

Replacement SE2 Cap Sensor for TST 507 Series

(37)

$54.00

Question:

I have the Taskmaster Viking 16 Aluminum rims part Ax02660655BMFL. My local tire shop installed my tires onto them but said they couldnt upgrade me to metal valve stems because their wasnt enough room for the washers to go on. These are on a 2026 Reflection 150 series 5th wheel. So i left the valve stems on that shipped with the rims. I installed my new TST-507 external TPMS cap sensors not flow through as mnfc said they can be used with rubber valve stems. Now I am worried and want to upgrade to metal. Do you think its necessary and if so can you confirm which metal stems will definately fit on these rims please ? Thank you.

asked by: Jerry M

Expert Reply:

Hi Jerry,

The TST website shows that their cap style sensors like part # TST47FR will work with either rubber or metal valve stems, so the rubber valve stems you have currently will work just fine.

If you're still wanting to switch to metal valve stems for your Taskmaster Viking 16 Aluminum rims part # TA75FR you can use the Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem part # AM20906. It's ideal if you're needing a higher psi, as rubber valve stems are rated for 80 psi while metal valve stems are rated for 200 psi.

What's the first trip you're taking your new camper out on?

expert reply by: Claire H

TST Cap Sensor
(click to enlarge)

Jerry M.

5/22/2026

Thanks for your response. I did see on the TST Truck website that the cap sensors were ok with rubber valve stems. It was just in some misc forums where I was reading on this topic and it seemed like about 80% of the (unprofessional) opinions on there were all saying go with metal valve stems to eliminate the possibility of the rubber cracking or degrading quicker from the extra weight .

Claire H.

5/22/2026

@JerryM Rubber valve stems will of course break down over time and are more susceptible to higher weights and tire pressure. If you're planning on towing long distance and/or frequently, I would recommend switching to the metal stems for longevity's sake.

Mark

5/24/2026

@JerryM. I used these on my little trailer many years ago as the tires call for 90 PSI on the 6 ply tires. I have had the rubber ones give out on me. Now this is just an 8 by 5 foot trailer being able to carry 2000 pounds. I had no problem putting them in and they are still on them today. The tire is small like 4.8 by 12 inch. Not knowing your rim I cannot say but they are still on my rims working great year after year. As for the caps I know nothing about them sorry. Mark

Claire H.

5/25/2026

@Mark Good call on switching to metal valve stems for your trailer tires. The rubber stems definitely don't perform as well for those higher psi tires. Glad to hear the metal stems are still working well for you!

James

5/23/2026

I personally purchased the valve stems for my Rv and have driven from Texas to New Brunswick CAN twice and back to Texas and have had no issues with the valve stems. Highly recommended.

Claire H.

5/23/2026

@James That’s some great real-world testing, and we’re glad to hear the valve stems have held up so well over all those miles. We really appreciate the recommendation and you sharing your experience!