Tube of vulcanizing solution empty when I needed it

[MattTuck]

Had a flat today, went to my patch kit, pierced the vulcanizing solution tube and .... nothing but air.

Do these things have an expiration date due to drying out or did I get a defective one? It was given out at some event I was at, as opposed to being a Park branded version that I bought -- so it doesn't seem unrealistic to imagine it was surplus from the 90's that someone donated just to get rid of it.

Anyway, if you still carry vulcanizing patch kits, might be worth checking that they're still good.

[pbarry]

If it was used before, and not last week, you're SOL. How long since you've fixed a flat with that repair kit?

Edit: Re-read the OP. I've been given a dozen or more old school Zefal tubular repair kits through the years. Not one has had a tube of glue that was not empty, and still sealed. VOCs..

[Timdog]

I gave up on patching tubes in the field probably 30 years ago for that same reason. I always carry 2 tubes and I might patch a punctured tube when I get home. Depends on the puncture.
Tim

[regularguy412]

Originally Posted by Timdog

I gave up on patching tubes in the field probably 30 years ago for that same reason. I always carry 2 tubes and I might patch a punctured tube when I get home. Depends on the puncture.
Tim

^^ This

Patching on the road is a last resort for me. I might 'start out' on a patched tube, but I always carry 2 new tubes.

Mike in AR

[bismo37]

Same here. I recently went through my saddle bags and found the same issue... empty glue tubes. I bought more from the LBS along with a glueless kit just in case the glue evaporates before I use it.

When I flat, I usually just replace the tube and patch the tube at home. I still like to have a patch kit on me just in case I flat more than once.

[MattTuck]

Previously, I have done the same. Go to a new tube first, patch as a second option. I also carry a mini-pump as primary inflation method, but have co2 in case I need to get inflated fast (ie. find myself in a dangerous location, or getting dark, etc.)

I've recently thought that the patching might be a better first method, as it maintains the pristine tube for when you really need it. If it can be patched, then no sense using a new tube.

So I did have a tube as back up, but I may revert to my old thinking in the future.

[OtayBW]

Originally Posted by MattTuck

Previously, I have done the same. Go to a new tube first, patch as a second option. I also carry a mini-pump as primary inflation method, but have co2 in case I need to get inflated fast (ie. find myself in a dangerous location, or getting dark, etc.)

I've recently thought that the patching might be a better first method, as it maintains the pristine tube for when you really need it. If it can be patched, then no sense using a new tube.

So I did have a tube as back up, but I may revert to my old thinking in the future.

Patching to maintain a pristine tube? For what? They cost...what...$5? Especially in a situation where time/safety/darkness is the main concern, all the more reason to just pop a new tube in there and get on home. The old thinking needs to stay the old thinking, IMO...

[sparky33]

Originally Posted by MattTuck

I've recently thought that the patching might be a better first method, as it maintains the pristine tube for when you really need it. If it can be patched, then no sense using a new tube.



So I did have a tube as back up, but I may revert to my old thinking in the future.

All's well that ends well.

My vulcanizing glue was not dependable either. I use those Park preglued patches now, or at least those are in the kit instead of glue now. I pull out the fresh inner tube first. I've got a pile of maybe-someday-to-be-patched tubes if anyone wants a go at them....

[likebikes]

i've never had a problem.

[pdmtong]

In the field I will

a) replace punctured tube with new tube,
b) use glueless patches for puncture,
c) use REMA patch kit or equivalent,
d) beg passing riders for tube,
e) call for SAG.

inflation via mini-pump and two CO2 cylinders.

I have found some of my small tubes of glue dried out.

why does no one just sell the tubes of glue? why do I need to buy a full patch kit just to get the tube of glue? who can use an entire can of glue?

I never carry an open tube of glue in my seat bag. maybe I should carry two new just to be sure.

[etu]

Originally Posted by pdmtong

In the field I will
why does no one just sell the tubes of glue? why do I need to buy a full patch kit just to get the tube of glue? who can use an entire can of glue?

I never carry an open tube of glue in my seat bag. maybe I should carry two new just to be sure.

https://www.amazon.com/Rema-Patch-Ce...vulcaning+glue

1+ "never carry an open tube of glue"

[staggerwing]

Not worth $5 for a little tube of glue. A whole patch kit is less than that.

Most auto parts stores will sell you an 8 ounce can of cold vulcanizing compound for about $8. It is the same stuff found in the Rema kits. Even the large size will thicken within a year or so of opening.

Sure bet is to carry a known good tube, replace on road, and repair bum tube back at home. Abrade surface with some 100 grit paper and clean with a bit of isopropyl alcohol for guaranteed results. I usually delay until I half a few, and knock 'em all out in a short setting.

[Lewis Moon]

I carry one or two tubes and use the "glueless" patches" if I have multiple flats. I also carry about two feet of duct tape that will work in a pinch.

[OldCrank]

I always wondered where the glue went-

It's pretty volatile, so I'm gonna guess it evaporates out thru the crimp.
The tube seams and seals look tight, and I doubt there are pinholes or anything in the metal.

I've been using my tubular glue (Vittoria One I think) because it's right there on the bench. No failures so far - maybe half a dozen repairs?

Oh yeah- well-worn Michelin Pro4s fold up pretty flat, I jam one under the seat or jersey pocket for longer rides. Ancient juju, like bringing umbrellas and raincoats to a picnic.

[Hindmost]

It occurs to me that this is the bicycling equivalent of Schroedinger's cat. The tube of glue is both full and empty. When you open the tube you affect the state of the contents.