I followed the user manual and removed all nuts, but the aluminum wheel is tightly stuck to the hub and I cannot pull it off. I also can see a circular cast iron piece at the center hole of the aluminum wheel. I tried many times to pull the aluminum wheel off and was not successful. This mean if I have a flat on the road, I will not be able to change with the spare tire. Anyone have insight on this? Thanks.
2004 SR5 4 runner change tire problem
- Thread starter leemk
- Start date
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TechWrench
Senior Member
leemk said:
This is a common problem with alloy wheels that are hub centric. The reaction between the alloy of the wheel, and the steel hub can cause them to 'bond' together and be very difficult to remove. There are several threads on this issue, with varying methods to solve the problem. I have usually had good luck with supporting the vehicle solidly on a set of jack stands, and using a heavy rubber mallet, repeatedly hitting the tire while rotating the tire. This will usually break it free. But, I don't recommend getting underneath the vehicle to hit the tire. I usually stand with my back to the fender, and hit the tire. If that won't work for you, then another method I have used with VERY stubborn wheels is to loosen the lug nuts just a few turns. Then lower the vehicle so the tire is on the ground again. Then, rock the vehicle from side to side, and let the weight of the vehicle break the wheel free. Once is is free, jack it back up and remove it. Once you have the wheels off, use a wire brush to clean the center hole on the wheel, and the center hub of corrosion, then coat the mating surfaces with a never seize type product to keep it from bonding again. Also, regular tire rotations will help keep the wheels from bonding over a long period of time.
TechWrench
Senior Member
leemk said:
Good luck getting the wheels 'unstuck'.
That quote in my 'Sig' goes WAY back to my military days, an old Army saying, one of many used by the maintenance oriented people I worked with.
