You might be working on a valve stem. Drill bits are often used with that, and knowing what size drill bit for the valve stem is essential. Do note that some people just do trial and error when testing out bits with valve stem.
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What Size Drill Bit for Valve Stem?
The most common size drill bit for valve stem would be 11.5 mm or 0.453-inch diameter. This is the most common size for tire valve stems applicable to cars. This drill bit size is used for rubber sem (TR13) or metal stem (TR11) valved inner tubes.
Still, the size drill bit for your stem valve depends on the valve stem. Every stem valve is different, so you might have to use a different bit size to accommodate the one you have. Hence, it all comes down to what stem valve you want to use the bits on.
Valve Stem Size Standards
There is no standard when it comes to valve stem sizes. However, there are common and popular valves that you can take note of. These are:
TR13
- Straight stem: 1.38 inches
- Base width: 2.2 inches
- Stem diameter: 0.46 inches
- Inflation pressure: 60 psi
- Commonly used on 0.445 or 0.631-inch rim holes
- Used for industrial tubes, light trucks, and more.
TR15
- Straight stem: 1.38 inches
- Base width: 2.2 inches
- Stem diameter: 0.65 inches
- Inflation pressure: 60 psi
- Commonly used on 0.618 or 0.633-inch rim holes
- Used for industrial tubes, passenger, and light trucks.
TR 300
- Straight stem: 1.76 inches
- Base width: 2.28 inches
- Stem diameter: 0.61 inches
- Maximum inflation pressure: 150 psi
- Commonly used on 0.618 or 0.633-inch rim holes
- Used for high-pressure tubeless tires on buses and trucks
TR JS2
- Stem length: 1.02 inches with 70 degrees bend
- Base diameter: 2.20 inches
- Stem diameter: 1.31 inches
- Maximum inflation pressure: 60 psi
- Commonly used on 0.445 or 0.631-inch rim holes
- Used for industrial trucks and trailers
Diameter of Tubeless Rubber Snap-in Valve Stems
The tubeless rubber valve stems would probably be the common one where you have to check because this is for passenger cars, light-duty trailers, and light trucks. Here’s a size chart that you can compare with a drill bit size chart to get the right diameter.
| Industry Valve Number | Effective Length (Inch) | Hole Diameter in Wheel (Inch) |
| 412 | 0.88 | 0.453 |
| 413 | 1.25 | 0.453 |
| 414 | 1.5 | 0.453 |
| 415 | 1.75 | 0.453 |
| 418 | 2 | 0.453 |
| 423 | 2.5 | 0.453 |
| 415 | 1.25 | 0.625 |
| 425 | 2 | 0.625 |
What Drill Bits You Can Use on Valve Stem?
It depends on what the manufacturer recommends. Generally, you can use most types of drill bits on the stem valve. It also doesn’t hurt to ask the internet about their opinion as some may have tried it themselves.
- Carbon Steel – is great for cutting into harder substances and is a durable one at that. Carbon steel is resistant to high temperatures, and they usually last a lot longer compared to other types of bits.
- High-Speed Steel (HSS) – this material remains solid even under high temperatures. It’s used for accurate and fast cutting.
- Cobalt Steel – high resistance to both heat and friction
- Tool Steel with Tungsten Carbide Tips (TCT) – tough tips and high life span
Based on their description, carbon steel is the best one to use for the stem of the valve, while others aren’t bad options at all too.
Related Questions
What Drill Bit to Use on Valve Stem?
Most vehicle applications use a valve stem within the size range of 1.25 inches to 2 inches. High-pressure valve stems are designed for steel wheels which you will regularly see if you’re drilling in car tires.
For other stem valve types, you may need to use a different drill bit size. I am only basing this on what the stem valve is commonly used for. Not everyone owns a trailer or a large truck that has a different bit size compared to regular cars.
Are All Valve Stems the Same Size?
Not all valve stems are the same size. In fact, they come in different sizes and lengths to fit any type of wheel. It’s just that the most popular wheels use almost the same stem valve size that people often mistake that all have the same size.
How Do I Know My Valve Stem Size?
Most people insert a drill bit to know the stem size of the valve. They do this by inserting a drill bit into the stem valve hole of the wheel and seeing what bit size matches the hole size.
Conclusion
Drill bits are oftentimes used on valve stems to measure their diameter. However, some also use it for repairs and maintenance. I hope you got a lot of information regarding drill bit size and stem valve in this article.