Which Tyre-Bay Tool Do I Need?
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Quick answer: Melco's tyre-bay tools each do a different job around changing and repairing a tyre: the WS/1 stool holds the wheel steady, the TS/1 and TS/2 spreaders open the tyre wall so you can inspect inside, and the VG valve grinding sticks clean and seat valves. All are made in the UK.
| Tool | Job | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| WS/1 Tyre Changing Stool | Holds the wheel steady on concentric rings while you work | Smaller workshops and mobile fitters; wheelbarrow up to car-size wheels |
| TS/1 Tyre Spreader (hand) | One-handed — opens the tyre wall to inspect inside | Fitters in the field or workshop; car and light commercial / trailer tyres |
| TS/2 Tyre Spreader (bench) | Bench-mounted — opens the tyre wall, frees both hands | Workshops with a fixed inspection station; car and truck-size tyres |
| VG/1 & VG/2 Valve Grinding Sticks | Spun between the palms with paste to grind-in a valve seat | Engine rebuilders and restorers (VG/1 smaller, VG/2 larger heads) |
Hold the wheel steady
The WS/1 tyre changing stool is a four-legged stand topped with concentric steel rings. The wheel drops onto whichever ring matches its centre bore and sits held and still, giving a firm base to change or repair a tyre. Fabricated from welded plate and powder coated — where cheaper versions are pressed sheet — and one of the few still made in the UK.
Inspect the tyre — TS/1 and TS/2 spreaders
A tyre spreader opens the wall of a tyre so you can see inside and check for damage before a repair. The TS/1 is single-handed — hold it against the tyre and push, and it opens itself, leaving your other hand free. The TS/2 is the bench-mounted version for a fixed inspection station, doing the same job for car and truck-size tyres.
Valve work — VG grinding sticks
The valve grinding sticks are a wooden dowel with a rubber sucker at each end. With grinding paste on the valve, you spin the stick between your palms to clean and polish the valve seat for a good seal. The VG/1 takes smaller valve heads (3/4″ & 7/8″); the VG/2 the larger (7/8″ & 1 1/4″).
Related tools
For the tyre change itself, see Tyre Levers and Bead Breakers, or read Which Tyre Lever Do I Need?
