Tires: bent rim wheel balance, vibration problem, wheel balance

Question
I took my truck to a shop to have a vibration problem checked out.  I suspected out of balance or bent rim.  They told me I had a slightly bent rim on front and badly bent one on rear.  They could not get a replacement until next week b/c of the holiday.  I asked them to switch out the worst rim for the one of the spare so I could drive until next week.  They told me when I picked it up that the tire that was on the bent rim was worn uneven and although they tried to balance it on the new rim it needed replaced.  They also told me I needed some front end parts about $500 worth and $300 for new set tires for the rear and $75 for a new rim.  They seemed to explain things and not pushy, but first time I have taken vehicle there, so don't know how reliable they are.  On my way home the vibration was a lot worse.  How could it be worse when the badest rim switched out?  I checked and the rim they switched out has two tire weights the largest I have seen right next to each other on the spare rim.

I am wondering if it is normal that the tire would need replaced?  The vibration only started within the last 200-300 miles and 3/4 tred left, and no visible "uneven wear" like they told me.  Also, is it normal to have two 3 inch long weights right next to each other on the rim even if trying to compensate for uneven wear on tire.  I just feel like they may have added the weights to make it ride worse, so I definitely come back next week for the new tires, rim, front end parts.  I know this was long, but thank you for answering.

Answer
Don,

First, a tire can be out of round, just like rim could be.  So even though the tire is now mounted on a better rim, the overall assembly could be worse.

Second, I suspect you may have a tread separation in the making that hasn't quite made itself visible by wearing an unusual wear pattern.  I suggest you replace this tire IMMEDIATELY!  Not tomorrow - TODAY!


Even if the tire is not separating, there is no reason to postpone buying new tires.  You have 3 reasonably good rims, and the 4th is suspect.  Do that, and then replace the rim when it arrives.