I just had the frustrating and expensive experience of having to buy all new tires for my vehicle (actually the deal was buy three get one free). Two of my tires had slow leaks. I had hoped that they could be patched, but like your tire the leaks were very close to the side wall -- both had nails in them. The third bad tire had a bulge, the result of a hit and run accident. My insurance company refused to pay for the damaged tire that was less than a year old. They examined the tire in person and from photos taken the night of the accident and made the decision that the tire was safe to drive on and did not need to be replaced. Conrad's in Lakewood thought the ruptured lining could cause a blow out so I had it replace at my own expense. They won't help my case with the insurance company though, they insisted that it was more likely that a pot hole caused the damage than the accident. I know the bulge was n't there before I got hit. 

Next time I have a slow leak I would like to patch it myself for $5 rather than the $15 Conrad's charges, if the hole is in the treads. I will look forward to reading more about this in your future postings.

Please let me put in a plug here (JB:) for Westown Tire-Auto Repair on 2703 Scranton Rd. (near Tremont)--conveniently located for check-ups.  

Proprietor Ruben Estremera 216-241-6806.  No problems, ever.  Sweet man and great service, which includes free tire rotations, inspections, anytime. 

 While waiting for the next installment, I recommend that we lay in a supply of fix a flat in a can. We could get lucky if we were to have a flat near a traffic light that is out and there are 3 city trucks that show up to change a light; maybe the spare guys would help fix the flat. 

"Now ladies, this tire fix it series is kind of a big, testicular dude's thing, like the Browns, so maybe you want to tune this out."

Ha ha.

So glad that I bought the fix a flat in the can.

this could use the next installment. Cold wreaks havoc on old, leaky tires.

In 2009 - I posted information about Westown Tire-Auto Repair on 2703 Scranton Rd. (near Tremont)--Proprietor Ruben Estremera 216-241-6806.  Ruben's long-time business is being forced out by a developer who wants to expand the upscale and tax abated Wagner Awning apartments.  It is another sad day for residents who depend on Ruben to keep their cars running.   Ruben has also employed countless young people, giving them a purpose in life.  The increased property taxes in and around Tremont are also forcing this move.  And, a tire and repair shop is not a compatible land use with rental units charging $1500-2K/month.  Ruben will be compensated and says he plans to relocate.  This is crushing news as we go into winter and need Ruben's expertise.  Kerry McCormack and Jasmin Santana have to make this right.