I’ve changed the tires on a split rim truck a few times, and I’ve seen tons of scary videos of them being installed as well, but I’ve never seen anything like this. They are usually referred to as split rims, but in truth they are more of a split ring. That split ring makes up the bead on one side of the tire and fits under a lip on the rim shell itself. Because they are metal on metal they sometimes rust between the ring and rim which can make them hard to remove. And if the ring isn’t seated correctly and the tire is inflated then that ring can become a deadly projectile. Whether you are taking the ring off, putting the ring on, or inflating the tire, this sucker can really hurt or even kill you.
What’s funny is that the Pakistani Truck guys just change these things out like it’s nothing and with a speed and confidence like I’ve never seen before, even in shops that work on old school trucks all the time. They also have some pretty creative tools, like the impact support cart. These 1 inch impacts are beasts and their little cart sure makes it easier.
I don’t get all the issues with split rims. I did these at a Goodyear dealer, every day for a few years. I was 16, that was my job. My boss showed me how to find a bad ring. And replace it. And how to work the ring so it doesn’t become a bad one. Like anything mechanical. They also wear out and need to be replaced. If ya know what and how to do them. They are fine. A real pain in the ass, for sure. Compared to the tubeless type today. It’s kinda like people freaking out about a car with a metal dashboard. .WTF!!!
I agree- I worked with them for 10 years and never had a problem with them. You can spot a bad ring and when one is not seating correctly fairly easily. You just have to be paying attention.
I did commercial tires for 20+ years (including Giant tires), these guys made the whole adventure slow and WAY too complicated. As the above comment, it’s all about knowing what you’re looking at (and the sounds, RE: tapping the ring at the beginning of inflation) for safety, I never had a problem refusing a particular rim if I had safety concerns.
Best part was the impact cart. Genius level right there.
That entire video was cringe worthy. Changing a tire in the middle of the street, this was no emergency repair. No safety jacks, but I guess a piece of wood and rock will do? Lol. I also didn’t see an inflation cage, but it’s possible it was there