How to Install a TYK Industries Inner Tube with a Metal TR6 Valve Stem

How to Install a TYK Industries Inner Tube with a Metal TR6 Valve Stem (with Two Nuts)

If you're replacing or upgrading a motorcycle, dirt bike, ATV, or other powersports inner tube, and your TYK Industries tube features a metal TR6 valve stem with two nuts, proper installation is key to longevity and safety. This valve stem is common in off-road and high-performance applications due to its durability and secure fit.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you install your new tube correctly.

 What You'll Need:

• TYK Industries inner tube (with TR6 valve stem)
• Tire levers/spoons
• Rim protectors (optional but recommended)
• Tire lube or soapy water
• REMA # 63 Tire Talc
• Air compressor or pump with pressure gauge
• Valve core tool (if needed)
• Valve Stem Fishing Tool
• Wrenches (for tightening the valve nuts)
• Clean rag or cloth

 Step 1: Prep the Rim and Tire

Before installing anything, inspect your rim:

• Remove old tube and tire if not already done.
• Check for rust, debris, or sharp edges inside the rim that could puncture the new tube.
• Inspect the tire for any embedded objects or excessive wear.
• For spoke wheels, ensure the rim strip (rubber strip that covers spoke nipples) is in good shape or replace it to protect the tube.

 Step 2: Mount One Side of the Tire onto the Rim

1. Apply tire lube or soapy water to the bead of the tire.
2. Use tire levers to carefully work one bead of the tire over the rim.
3. Use rim protectors to avoid damaging your wheel or pinching the rim.
4. Double-check that the bead is evenly seated around the rim.

Step 3: Insert the Tube into the Tire

1. Slightly inflate the tube so it holds its shape—just enough to identify the valve stem position.
2. Align the valve stem with the hole in the rim. For off-center valves, ensure the valve placement on the tube is on the same side as the valve hole of the wheel. This should be checked before the tube is installed.
3. Apply REMA # 63 Tire Talc to the inside of the tire to allow the inner tube to move freely during inflation.
4. Insert the tube into the tire, making sure it’s seated evenly without twists or pinches.

Step 4: Install the Valve Stem (The Two-Nut Method)

The TR6 metal valve stem typically comes with two nuts and a sealing washer.

1. Feed the valve stem fishing tool through the valve hole from the outside in.
2. Screw the end of the tool onto the inner tubes valve stem and pull the stem through the valve hole.
3. On the inside of the rim, there should be a protective metal grommet or sealing washer (sometimes pre-installed on the tube).
4. On the outside of the rim:
• Remove the fishing tool while holding the valve in place. Thread the first nut down until it’s snug against the rim, then back it off two or three turns.
• This nut helps keep the valve stem in place during inflation and use but allows minimal movement.
• Also, this allows air to escape from between the tire and tube during inflation.
5. Leave the second nut (lock nut) off for now — it will go on after the tire is inflated.

 Tip: Do not over-tighten the first nut. It should be just tight enough to hold the valve in place but still allow for some movement in the event of tire flex or impact.

Step 5: Mount the Second Side of the Tire onto the Rim

1. Apply tire lube to the remaining bead if needed.
2. Carefully work the second bead of the tire over the rim, avoiding pinching the tube.
3. Make sure the tube isn’t twisted or trapped under the bead.
4. Double-check that the valve stem is straight and centered.

 Step 6: Inflate the Tube Gradually

1. Inflate the tube slowly, watching the tire bead seat evenly all the way around.
2. Check both sides to ensure the bead is fully and evenly seated.
3. Deflate and re-inflate a couple of times to help settle the tube and reduce wrinkles.

 Step 7: Tighten the Second Nut

Once the tire is fully seated and inflated to the correct PSI:

1. Thread the second nut down until it’s tight against the first nut.
2. This acts as a lock nut, locking the first nut in place and further securing the valve stem.

Properly installed, these two nuts help:

• Prevent excessive valve stem movement
• Minimize risk of tearing during aggressive riding
• Provide a seal against dirt and moisture

• Ensure valve stem cap is installed.
• Check air pressure again after a few minutes and adjust as needed.
• Air will escape the tire from the valve stem hole during and after tube inflation. This is normal and expected. The air between the tube and the tire releases as the tube is inflated and the only escape route is the valve hole.

 Conclusion

Installing a TYK Industries inner tube with a TR6 metal valve stem and dual nuts might seem like a small detail, but it's an important part of your overall safety and performance. By securing the valve stem correctly and carefully mounting the tire, you'll prevent leaks, stem damage, and ride interruptions.

Ride smart, ride safe!

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