Solution For Wavvy Rim Causing Rim Leaks And Dismounts

[neta160]

I could have sworn that I already posted this question but I can't find it. If I did, my apologies in advance.

In any event, the rear rim is wavvy in an area where the rim was welded together. It appears that there wasn't enough rim material to make an 18 inch rim out of one piece so a 4 inch section was welded in. Obviously, there are two weld areas. It is in the 4 inch area where the rim is wavvy.

While riding I regularly develop severe rim leaks in the wavvy area and twice now the tire has completely separated from the rim on the wavvy side.

To fix the problem, I am thinking of smoothing some J&B Weld or epoxy putty between the waves and filing the entire area as flat as possible.

Does this sound like a reasonable solution or does someone have a better idea?

[swooshdave]

I could have sworn that I already posted this question but I can't find it. If I did, my apologies in advance.

In any event, the rear rim is wavvy in an area where the rim was welded together. It appears that there wasn't enough rim material to make an 18 inch rim out of one piece so a 4 inch section was welded in. Obviously, there are two weld areas. It is in the 4 inch area where the rim is wavvy.

While riding I regularly develop severe rim leaks in the wavvy area and twice now the tire has completely separated from the rim on the wavvy side.

To fix the problem, I am thinking of smoothing some J&B Weld or epoxy putty between the waves and filing the entire area as flat as possible.

Does this sound like a reasonable solution or does someone have a better idea?

Maybe get a new rim?

[neta160]

A new wheel costs $750 USD. I could purchase the rim itself, re-string all the spokes, swap the disc, swap the sprocket, fight with resealing the rimband, swap the tire, etc.

Or, maybe there is an easier fix???

[swooshdave]

It appears that there wasn't enough rim material to make an 18 inch rim out of one piece so a 4 inch section was welded in. Obviously, there are two weld areas. It is in the 4 inch area where the rim is wavvy.

I have to say that from your description this does not sound good. I can't imagine the wheel came from the factory like this. What do you know about the history of the rim?

Depending on just how far out of sorts the wheel is will determine a possible fix. Can you post a photo of the wheel?

Sure, replacing the rim wouldn't be fun, but it doesn't sound ridable as it is.

[b40rt]

[

I've swapped front rims in the past by taping the new rim to the old with all the holes lined up. Slacken the spokes right off, then move the spokes across one at a time, doing the nearest side first. No doubt someone will say if this is not possible with a rear.

Edited August 14, 2008 by B40RT

[neta160]

I have to say that from your description this does not sound good. I can't imagine the wheel came from the factory like this. What do you know about the history of the rim?

Depending on just how far out of sorts the wheel is will determine a possible fix. Can you post a photo of the wheel?

Sure, replacing the rim wouldn't be fun, but it doesn't sound ridable as it is.

The wheel in question is my spare wheel. My primary wheel is out for repair due to another issue. When I get it back and swap out my spare, I will take some pictures. I don't think the spare wheel was repaired since the welds are good quality, smoothed and go across the entire rim. It looks like a factory job.