A slow leak in a tire can present a hazard if left unattended for too long. A slow leak can weaken the structure of the tire and may cause the tire to rip apart if you maneuver the vehicle and equipment over a rough surface. Finding a slow leak can prove frustrating; however, a couple simple preparations can help your find that leak quickly so your can patch the tire, whether a bicycle, car, or a wheelbarrow.
Use an air compressor and over inflate your tire slightly. This will can the tire to leak much faster. Move your hand over the tire as you inflate the tire and after you stop to locate your leak. This will work best for small tires such as a bicycle tire or a tire on a wheelbarrow.
Mark the area where you find the leak with your yellow magic marker so that your can patch the appropriate area of the tire.
Spray a larger tire, such as a car tire with your water hose, after you remove the tire from the vehicle or equipment. You do not want to turn you hose on full blast, but rather turn it on enough to wet the tire. Soak the tire completely, turn the tire, and look for bubbles in water on the tire, which indicate a leak. Mark the area with your yellow marker.
