Bratton’s 19” Metal Stem Tube vs Rubber Stem Tube

[w.michael]

My 1965 tubes on the sport coupe still hold air except for the one on which the rubber stem cracked. Does that mean if I had used metal stems that tube would still be good? Maybe.

I put metal stems on the standard coupe five years ago, but that has to do with my desire for authenticity, not reliability.

As is said above, you can always add metal stems later if you want them--but I guess not the Bratton-style vulcanized-in stems, only the clamp-in style.

And yes, it is easier to work with the rubber stems.

W. Michael

[TerryH]

I ordered and bought new Goodyear tires and metal stem tubes from Lucas in Long Beach, about a year ago. I was very happy with the tires, but every one of the tubes leaks, all about 1-2 lb per week, plus two of the valves are very difficult to put air in. Whomever supplied these tubes to Lucas must have bought them from China. Now I need to order 5 new tubes from Bratton's and replace these.

[Tom Wesenberg]

Rubber stems let in water, which rusts out the wheel.

Actually I saw this poor wheel at the last swap meet of the year. It's still good as a yard ornament, or get 3 more like it and weld up a lawn chair.

[DougVieyra]

Post # 4 from MikeK has the answer that I support whole heartedly. It is what I would suggest.

[ODFever]

Thanks for all of the advice. I really appreciate it. I will go with either Coker or Bratton's tubes with rubber stems.

[brito36]

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I installed original metal stems in my cars for over forty years ago and have had no problems. They won't give you problems if installed correctly. I also made sure that the inside of my rims were free of rust scale and sharp metal. A little baby powder works well as a lubricant for the tubes.