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blackrams
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OCT 10, 11:28 PM
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Tire Balancing Beads Seem Like Magic, But There's A Reason They Aren't Used More Often
https://www.msn.com/en-us/l...05a268892a5f86&ei=37
Haven't decided yet but, I may give them a try in my Solstice. If I do, I'll report back on how satisfied I am with them.
Rams
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Vintage-Nut
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OCT 11, 08:08 AM
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As the article says:
"Wheel weights are still the gold standard for balancing everyday tires."
Cons as mentioned on the article:
Balancing beads won't work on low-speed issues; only works at high-speeds
Wrong amount of beads can ruin the whole effect
Beads make sense on heavy-duty rigs and RVs, though they're not as smooth at low speeds.
| quote | | But the average car? That's different. You're not spending long hours on end at 65 mph. You're hitting potholes and braking at every other light. Plus, the softer suspension of modern cars and the embossed chevron design of commuter tires are some of the reasons why balancing beads don't always keep up. Which explains why shops stick with weights: they're simple, consistent, and universally understood. That's why –- despite the appeal – most of us will keep rolling with plain old wheel weights. |
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Roll the dice?
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blackrams
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OCT 11, 08:32 AM
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| quote | Originally posted by Vintage-Nut:
As the article says:
"Wheel weights are still the gold standard for balancing everyday tires."
Cons as mentioned on the article:
Balancing beads won't work on low-speed issues; only works at high-speeds
Wrong amount of beads can ruin the whole effect
Beads make sense on heavy-duty rigs and RVs, though they're not as smooth at low speeds.
Roll the dice? |
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I guess you could call it rolling the dice. The reported reasons for not using beads on passenger cars may be 100% correct but, I believe much depends on how one drives. I rarely take trips of less than 35 miles (one way) and do maintain highway speeds. For city dwellers (who are constantly in stop and go traffic) I can see where the beads may not be the way to go. I also have a hard time believing that cars (we call them cages) are more sensitive than my motorcycles. But I'm thinking I just need to prove it to myself.
Rams[This message has been edited by blackrams (edited 10-11-2025).]
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87GT3800SC5SPD
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OCT 11, 12:21 PM
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This video shares the science of how balance beads work and contains a link to a video of a goPro mounted inside a tire to watch the beads work, both on a balancing machine and in a road test.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T47s4L1Wje4
I have balancing beads in my motorhome tires because they are the easiest way to balance those tires and about the only way you can balance a tire that is replaced on the side of the road. Beyond easy and convenient, they actually work. What's difficult to do in today's world is to find a road smooth enough to determine whether you have a bad balance issue or crappy roads. When I encounter a very good road surface in my travels, it clearly determines that a well balanced tire on a smooth road surface is delightful. A well balanced tire on a crappy road surface feels like poorly balanced tires.
Todays tires are much better that the tires I remember from my early days of driving and I would likely not notice a balance issue at low speed on most of todays urban roadways and most of the roads I drive are posted at 50 mph or higher, so my experience has been good in my motorhome, as I am less than two miles from a 60 mph highway.
Although I have not used beads in my Fiero or Sky tires, I am now tempted to give them a try. Removing the weights and installing the beads through the valve stem is simple, unlike guy in the second video, who demonstrates how not to do it, when you do not read or follow the simple instructions. I am amused at comments about being annoyed by hearing the beads fall to the bottom of the tires when coming to a stop. Really? If my hearing was that sensitive, I would have to wear ear protection when driving my Sky, which is my more quiet civilized car compared to my Fiero.
The science in the videos shows that they do work, how they work and when they work best. We all need to determine what is best for each of us in life. This is something that you can easily try with limited expense and change back to wheel weights, also at minimal expense. It's not like trying to see what it's like to have a heart attack, which some of us have survived at the expense of an expensive new car.
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blackrams
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OCT 11, 12:39 PM
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| quote | Originally posted by 87GT3800SC5SPD:
This video shares the science of how balance beads work and contains a link to a video of a goPro mounted inside a tire to watch the beads work, both on a balancing machine and in a road test.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T47s4L1Wje4
I have balancing beads in my motorhome tires because they are the easiest way to balance those tires and about the only way you can balance a tire that is replaced on the side of the road. Beyond easy and convenient, they actually work. What's difficult to do in today's world is to find a road smooth enough to determine whether you have a bad balance issue or crappy roads. When I encounter a very good road surface in my travels, it clearly determines that a well balanced tire on a smooth road surface is delightful. A well balanced tire on a crappy road surface feels like poorly balanced tires.
Todays tires are much better that the tires I remember from my early days of driving and I would likely not notice a balance issue at low speed on most of todays urban roadways and most of the roads I drive are posted at 50 mph or higher, so my experience has been good in my motorhome, as I am less than two miles from a 60 mph highway.
Although I have not used beads in my Fiero or Sky tires, I am now tempted to give them a try. Removing the weights and installing the beads through the valve stem is simple, unlike guy in the second video, who demonstrates how not to do it, when you do not read or follow the simple instructions. I am amused at comments about being annoyed by hearing the beads fall to the bottom of the tires when coming to a stop. Really? If my hearing was that sensitive, I would have to wear ear protection when driving my Sky, which is my more quiet civilized car compared to my Fiero.
The science in the videos shows that they do work, how they work and when they work best. We all need to determine what is best for each of us in life. This is something that you can easily try with limited expense and change back to wheel weights, also at minimal expense. It's not like trying to see what it's like to have a heart attack, which some of us have survived at the expense of an expensive new car. |
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Sir,
I tend to agree with everything you posted. Have seen either that video or one similar before several years ago and that's why I run beads in all my Valkyries. My Ram 3500 Dually is gone to another owner now but, very tempted to put beads in the half-ton pickup I now drive. New tires are soon to be put on the pickup so, I see this as an opportunity to test out my theory. The Solstice would be next in line if, the half-ton pickup (short bed, regular cab) works out as I believe it will. If not, well back to the old system. 
Rams[This message has been edited by blackrams (edited 10-11-2025).]
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hyperv6
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OCT 11, 11:17 PM
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Balance beads are not the way to go. Walk away now.
Performance Limitations:
Soft Suspensions: Balancing beads are less effective on vehicles with soft front-end suspensions, leading to potential performance issues like increased vibration or shimmy.
Minimum Speed Required: The beads need to reach a certain speed to be properly distributed by centrifugal force, and they do not work effectively at low speeds.
Runout & Lateral Imbalance: Beads are designed for static balance and do not correct problems related to tire runout or lateral imbalance.
Environmental and Material Issues:
Moisture and Clumping: Beads can clump together when wet, leading to a temporary imbalance. While some beads are moisture-resistant, the coating can eventually wear off over time.
Contamination: Excess moisture or oil on the inside of the tire can prevent the beads from working effectively in the short term.
Tire Wear: Some users report that the constant movement of beads can wear down the inside of the tire, though this effect is debated and may not occur during the tire's lifespan.
Installation and Maintenance Challenges:
TPMS Valve Stems: Beads cannot be injected through a valve stem if the tire contains a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Correct Amount: The proper quantity of beads is critical for effectiveness; too many can create an imbalance, and it's sometimes estimated rather than precisely measured, which is not ideal.
Messy for Mechanics: If the beads fail to work, the installer will need to clean them out and rebalance the wheel with traditional weights, which is a messy and time-consuming process.
Suitability for Specific Vehicles:
Best for Certain Vehicles: Balancing beads work best in vehicles with stiff or simple suspension systems, such as motorcycles, ATV's, trailers, and heavy-duty commercial vehicles.
Less Suitable for Passenger Cars: They are generally less effective on light passenger cars and are often associated with a lower success rate.
Look people try to do this to save money and not because it is a better way. In the end they come back and generally have to have them redone. If I were a shop I would charge you extra just for the mess you made me have.
Boat trailer with a really out of round tire, ATV or other odd application fine but for cars and especially cars like a Fiero with low profile tires that are balance sensitive I would not even consider it.
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blackrams
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OCT 12, 07:47 AM
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| quote | Originally posted by hyperv6:
Balance beads are not the way to go. Walk away now.
Performance Limitations:
Soft Suspensions: Balancing beads are less effective on vehicles with soft front-end suspensions, leading to potential performance issues like increased vibration or shimmy.
Minimum Speed Required: The beads need to reach a certain speed to be properly distributed by centrifugal force, and they do not work effectively at low speeds.
Runout & Lateral Imbalance: Beads are designed for static balance and do not correct problems related to tire runout or lateral imbalance.
Environmental and Material Issues:
Moisture and Clumping: Beads can clump together when wet, leading to a temporary imbalance. While some beads are moisture-resistant, the coating can eventually wear off over time.
Contamination: Excess moisture or oil on the inside of the tire can prevent the beads from working effectively in the short term.
Tire Wear: Some users report that the constant movement of beads can wear down the inside of the tire, though this effect is debated and may not occur during the tire's lifespan.
Installation and Maintenance Challenges:
TPMS Valve Stems: Beads cannot be injected through a valve stem if the tire contains a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Correct Amount: The proper quantity of beads is critical for effectiveness; too many can create an imbalance, and it's sometimes estimated rather than precisely measured, which is not ideal.
Messy for Mechanics: If the beads fail to work, the installer will need to clean them out and rebalance the wheel with traditional weights, which is a messy and time-consuming process.
Suitability for Specific Vehicles:
Best for Certain Vehicles: Balancing beads work best in vehicles with stiff or simple suspension systems, such as motorcycles, ATV's, trailers, and heavy-duty commercial vehicles.
Less Suitable for Passenger Cars: They are generally less effective on light passenger cars and are often associated with a lower success rate.
Look people try to do this to save money and not because it is a better way. In the end they come back and generally have to have them redone. If I were a shop I would charge you extra just for the mess you made me have.
Boat trailer with a really out of round tire, ATV or other odd application fine but for cars and especially cars like a Fiero with low profile tires that are balance sensitive I would not even consider it. |
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Sir,
Your input is appreciated and not being ignored. As I indicated earlier, I'm simply considering doing this. The tire pressure sensor issue and what happens if you have to plug a tire are my biggest concern. Any glue associated with that plug would most certainly grab those balance beads and cause an imbalance of the tire. The attempt to save money as mentioned above isn't a motivator at all on this, I have simply had issues with stick on weights in the past.
Rams[This message has been edited by blackrams (edited 10-12-2025).]
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Dennis LaGrua
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OCT 12, 09:47 AM
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If I am not mistaken balance beads go inside the tires and they are constantly changing position while you are driving. Its like adding movement and extra friction inside the tire that will result in wear. Sounds like crap and I wouldn't touch em. Dynamic balancing on my Fiero tires with clip on weights is what is used. ------------------
" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "
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blackrams
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OCT 12, 11:07 AM
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| quote | Originally posted by Dennis LaGrua:
If I am not mistaken balance beads go inside the tires and they are constantly changing position while you are driving. Its like adding movement and extra friction inside the tire that will result in wear. Sounds like crap and I wouldn't touch em. Dynamic balancing on my Fiero tires with clip on weights is what is used.
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Balance beads are free to move on the interior/inside of the tire; they find the balance point(s) when the centrifugal force of the tire rotation gets up to speed. Those beads are not as effective at slower speed or while accelerating or decelerating. Different size tires require a different volume/weight. My motorcycle tires (both front and back) require two ounces of balance beads and they work very well. I don't remember what my Ram dually needed but, I think it was 4 or 5 ounces and it did have TPS in every tire.
I am considering putting balance beads in my Chevy half ton, short bed, regular cab pickup as an experiment to see if it's good or bad thing, will probably only start with the front end but, currently it's just a consideration. While many have opinions, few have tried. Not knocking your opinion but, I like finding out for myself when it's questionable. That trait is probably why the Army made me a "RW Test Pilot".  You know, one of those let Mikey try it................. 
Rams
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hyperv6
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OCT 12, 01:18 PM
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| quote | Originally posted by blackrams:
Sir,
Your input is appreciated and not being ignored. As I indicated earlier, I'm simply considering doing this. The tire pressure sensor issue and what happens if you have to plug a tire are my biggest concern. Any glue associated with that plug would most certainly grab those balance beads and cause an imbalance of the tire. The attempt to save money as mentioned above isn't a motivator at all on this, I have simply had issues with stick on weights in the past.
Rams
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Just found more info to consider. Plugs could be at issues as well patch as it is a mess to clean up inside just to repair a tire.
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