Sidewall Slugs: The Ultimate Storage Box Companion

There’s no fixing a sidewall tear: at least that’s what we’ve been told for years. Carrying a spare is good practice, but what happens if you’re already on a spare, wheeling way out in the middle of a beautiful nowhere?  This is where one of our favorite products, sidewall slugs, proves their worth.

Why Sidewall Slugs Are a Must-Have For Every Side-By-Side Rider. 

Now, you might be wondering, "What the heck are sidewall slugs, and why do I need them?"

Picture this: you’re deep in the heart of the woods, all signs of civilization are miles away, it’s just you and the trails. Suddenly, your carefree ride is disrupted by an unmistakable hissing sound. You hope to hell it’s just a puncture but that’s not the case. You've got a sidewall tear. You probably don’t have to imagine it - we’ve all been there: bad line choice, a rock you couldn’t see, or an old stump lurking around a corner waiting to ruin your day. 

If you don't have a sidewall slug handy, you're stuck - or you’re limping out to the trailhead, likely destroying a wheel for good in the process. With these bad boys in your storage box, you can confidently tackle any trail, knowing that you're prepared for the unexpected, even when it means a torn sidewall.

So, why are these little wonders a must-have for every SxS enthusiast?

Simply put, they're your tire's first aid. Consisting of two plastic disks - one slips inside the tear, one fits on the outside, and a cinch-up bolt, they're designed to temporarily patch sidewall tears up to 1.5 inches. While they aren't a permanent fix, sidewall slug repair kits can be a game-changer when you're out in even the roughest terrain. Just remember, because of the way that they work, they’re inclined to leak at lower pressures, so aim for the higher end of your tire’s recommended pressure range. 

Now, here's how the whole Sidewall Slug process works:

• First, locate the puncture in your tire and thoroughly clean the area. You’ll want to remove any dirt, debris, or loose rubber. You’re not looking for a perfect surface for adhesive to grab, you just need it cleaned up enough to get a decent seal.
• Slide the back disk into the puncture, always holding onto the attached cable to prevent it from slipping.
• Secure and hand-tighten the exterior nut, adjusting so the slug remains centered over the tear.
• Once you’ve gotten it finger-tight, grab a 10mm and tighten up the nut on the outside.
• Grab your compressor and inflate the tire back up to the high end of the recommended pressure range.
• Get back on the trail.

We can’t skip over one major point, though - the best way to use sidewall slugs is to not use them at all – by not tearing your sidewall. Regular tire inspections, proper inflation levels, and cautious driving can minimize the chances of sidewall damage. Even with sidewall slugs in your arsenal, the goal is prevention over cure. Always be aware of your tire's condition and when it's time to consult a professional.

Even the Best Technology Has Limits

If the puncture is too severe or the sidewall is damaged beyond repair, don't attempt to use sidewall slugs. It's essential to recognize when a tire needs professional attention.

So, gear up, be prepared, and know when you hit the trailhead that you can conquer those off-road challenges with confidence. With sidewall slugs by your side (or in your storage box), you're ready for anything the trail throws your way. No matter what side-by-side you decide is right for your adventures, we’ve got the experience you need to keep it on the trails, and real ways to make it better.

Keeping your rig running great when you’re out on the trails, shouldn’t get in the way of a good time. If you’re looking for advice, need help with an install, or just don’t know what parts you might want to check out next, CA Tech has the experts on hand with the info you need. Give us a call at 423-790-0230 or shoot us an email at sales@catechusa.com - we got you!