TR13 vs. TR6 Inner Tube Valve Stems: Which One Do You Need?

When shopping for an inner tube, getting the tire size right is only part of the equation. You also need to make sure the valve stem is right for your wheel and equipment.

Two common options are the TR13 rubber valve stem and the TR6 metal valve stem. Both are used on lawn and garden equipment, ATVs, trailers, and other small equipment, and you may even find the same tube size offered with either valve.

So, which one should you choose?

TR13 vs. TR6: The Quick Answer

A TR13 is a short, straight rubber valve stem commonly used on lawn tractors, garden equipment, trailers, and many other applications.

A TR6 is a straight metal valve stem with external threads and retaining nuts. It is commonly found on ATVs, lawn and garden equipment, trailers, and other applications where a metal stem is used.

The easiest rule when replacing an inner tube is to match the valve stem on the tube you're replacing whenever possible.

What Is a TR13 Valve Stem?

The TR13 is one of the most common inner tube valve stems.

It is a short, straight rubber valve stem approximately 1.38 inches long and is designed for a standard valve opening of approximately 0.453 inches (11.5 mm).

TR13 valve stems are commonly found on:

• Lawn tractors and riding mowers
• Garden equipment
• Utility and small trailers
• Wheelbarrows and carts
• Small industrial equipment
• Some agricultural applications

The flexible rubber construction makes the TR13 a common general-purpose valve for many small-tire applications.

What Is a TR6 Valve Stem?

The TR6 is easy to distinguish from a TR13 because the exposed portion of the valve is metal rather than rubber.

A TR6 is a short, straight metal valve stem with external threads and retaining nuts that allow it to be secured at the wheel.

TR6 valve stems are commonly found on:

• ATVs
• Lawn and garden equipment
• Small trailers
• Agricultural equipment
• Specialty and off-road equipment

TR13 vs. TR6: What's the Difference?

The easiest visual difference is:

TR13 = rubber stem

TR6 = threaded metal stem

Why Can the Same Inner Tube Size Have Different Valve Stems?

This is where choosing an inner tube can get confusing.

The tire size determines the size of the inner tube, but the wheel design and equipment application help determine the correct valve stem.

That's why the same inner tube size may be available with either a TR13 or TR6 valve.

If you're replacing an existing tube, the simplest starting point is to match the valve type that was already being used successfully on the equipment.

When Should You Choose a TR13?

Choose a TR13 when your equipment and wheel use a standard rubber valve stem.

A TR13 is often the right choice when:

• Your old tube has a short rubber valve
• The wheel is designed for a standard rubber tube valve
• You're replacing a tube on lawn, garden, trailer, cart, or similar equipment that previously used a TR13

When Should You Choose a TR6?

Choose a TR6 when your equipment uses a threaded metal valve stem.

A TR6 is often the right choice when:

• Your original tube had a TR6
• The valve is designed to be secured at the rim with retaining nuts
• Your equipment or wheel calls for a straight metal valve

Can You Replace a TR6 With a TR13?

Sometimes the same tube size is available with either valve, but that doesn't mean the valves should automatically be considered interchangeable.

Before switching valve types, consider the wheel's valve opening, valve location, clearance, and the equipment's original valve configuration.

When possible, matching the original valve stem is the safest and simplest approach.

What If You're Not Sure Which Valve Stem You Need?

Start by checking your old inner tube.

If it has a short rubber valve, you may need a TR13. If it has a short threaded metal valve with retaining nuts, you may need a TR6.

Then verify your tire size and compare the valve configuration to your wheel.

If you're still unsure, don't guess. Send TYK Industries your tire size along with a picture of the wheel and existing valve stem. We can help identify the appropriate inner tube and valve for your application.

Find the Right Inner Tube at TYK Industries

TYK Industries carries inner tubes for lawn tractors, ATVs, farm equipment, trailers, industrial equipment, trucks, and off-road machinery.

We offer tubes with numerous valve configurations, including TR13, TR6, TR15, TR218A, TR618A, and other specialty valve stems.

When ordering an inner tube, remember:

Match the tube to your tire size and the valve stem to your wheel and application.

And if you're unsure, contact TYK Industries with your tire size and a photo. We'll help you find the right tube and valve combination.