How to Replace a Wheel Tube on Dynamic Dollies

You come back to your boat after some time away—and find the dolly tire is flat. You could pump it up, and that might work for a while but chances are it’ll eventually go flat again. Most likely, the inner tube has failed. Here’s how to replace it:

What You’ll Need

• Tire irons (motorcycle-style preferred): Example on Amazon
  You can substitute with large flathead screwdrivers or the handle of a wrench, but be careful – these can damage the tube or rim.
• Replacement inner tube (4.80/4.00-8 size) with an angled valve stem: Here’s a good option

I recommend using proper motorcycle tire irons—they’re smooth, light, and long enough to give you leverage without damaging the rim or tube.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Deflate the Tire (if it still has air):
Squeeze out as much air as possible. A completely deflated tube is much easier to remove. If you can’t get to the valve stem to deflate it, you may need to cut it after removing one side of the tire.

2. Remove the Tire from the Rim:
Use your tire irons to work one side of the tire off the wheel. This will take some force, but don’t overdo it—Dynamic Dolly rims are plastic and can bend or crack under too much pressure. Watch the video to see how it’s done.

3. Remove the Old Tube:
Once one side of the tire is free, pull the tube out. Cut it if necessary to make removal easier.

4. Insert the New Tube:
Place the new tube inside the tire, aligning the valve stem with the hole in the wheel.
Tip: Hold the valve stem in place through the hole while you work the rest of the tube into position. Note: there may be two holes in the wheel for the valve stem – only one lines up with the angled stem.

5. Re-seat the Tire:
Carefully work the tire edge back over the rim using your tire irons. Be gentle—don’t pinch the new tube, especially if you’re using improvised tools.

6. Inflate the Tire:
Pump the tire to 10–14 psi, depending on your needs. Make sure the tire is seated evenly all the way around.

7. Install the Valve Cap:
Always use plastic valve caps in a marine environment.
Avoid metal caps—they corrode and can seize onto the stem over time.

8. Reinstall the Wheel on the Dolly.

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