A sliced sidewall is the tire failure that usually ends a trip. A normal plug kit only handles tread punctures, so many drivers end up swapping to a spare or being towed. The GlueTread sidewall repair kits are built for that exact problem. Here are the questions we get asked most, answered with the manufacturer's specs.
What is GlueTread?
GlueTread is an off-road tire repair system made in the USA. It uses a flexible patch and fast-curing adhesive to repair sidewall cuts and tears from the outside of the tire, so you do not need to remove the tire from the wheel. It lives in our recovery gear collection.
Can you really repair a sidewall cut without taking the tire off the rim?
Yes. The kits are designed for a repair done entirely on the outside of the tire, right on the trail, without removing the wheel from the vehicle.
What is the difference between a tire plug kit and a sidewall patch kit?
Plugs are for tread punctures from nails, thorns and sharp rocks. The tread is thick and holds a plug. A sidewall is thin, flexes constantly and cannot take a plug, so a cut there needs a bonded patch. GlueTread covers both: the Complete kit includes plugs and patches, while the Full-Size kit is sidewall only.
Which kit should I buy?
- Full-Size Sidewall Repair Kit ($72.99): for full-size truck and 4x4 tires. Contains 2 patches at 4" x 4.5", 2 patches at 3" x 1.5", 3 tubes of adhesive, 6 applicator tips, 10 pieces of sandpaper and the instruction manual. Enough for 4 to 6 repairs.
- Complete Tire Repair Kit ($180): the all-in-one. Sidewall repair (2 patches at 4" x 4.5", 4 patches at 3" x 1.5", 3 tubes of adhesive, 20 sandpaper patches) plus tread and valve repair (2 CNC-machined aluminum plug T-handle tools, 10 self-vulcanizing tire plugs and 1 Colby emergency valve stem).
If you only carry one thing, the Complete kit covers the three most common failures: sidewall cuts, tread punctures and failed valve stems.
How strong is the repair, and how fast does it cure?
- Bond strength: 5,000 PSI
- Pressure strength: 40 PSI
- Patch durometer: 75
- Initial cure: 30 seconds
- Full cure: 10 minutes
Because the pressure rating is 40 PSI, this is a trail repair designed to get you moving again. Follow the instruction manual, and have the tire inspected before you rely on it for regular driving.
What vehicles do the kits fit?
The Full-Size kit is built for full-size truck and 4x4 tires. The Complete kit is listed as fitting trucks, 4x4s, SxS, ATVs and tractors.
How many repairs do I get?
The Full-Size kit has enough patches and adhesive for 4 to 6 tire repairs. The Complete kit adds more small patches, extra sandpaper and 10 plugs, so it stretches further across mixed repairs.
What else should I carry for tire trouble?
A repair kit pairs well with the rest of your recovery setup. The Recovery Duffle 20L keeps gear together in a spare tire bag, and you can browse more in our recovery gear collection.
Can I get a kit before my next trip?
Yes. Order from the Full-Size or Complete listing. Not sure which fits your tires? Message Union Overland and we will help you choose.