Metal studs inserted into tires were introduced in the United States in the 1960s. Studs improve the performance of tires in the snow and ice by giving them more traction. Studded tires use the gravity of the car pressing down upon them to chip into the snow and ice. Holes are manufactured into tires specifically to fit different lengths of studs.
Mount tires, one at a time, onto an aluminum shoe of a K-5 stand so that you may work comfortably on it. Check your air pressure with a tire gauge to ensure that it is properly inflated.
Measure the depth of a stud hole on the tire with a tire tread depth gauge and compare it with a tire stud depth chart. For example, if your hole measures 12/32" then the proper tire stud size is TSMI #12.
Lubricate the tire by spraying it with water. Focus on the stud holes, as they will need to be slippery in order for the stud gun to properly insert studs into them.
Attach the stud gun to the air hose and set the air compressor pressure between 95 and 110 PSI.
Align the stud gun tip with the stud hole on the tire. Press the stud gun tip firmly down into the hole and depress the stud gun trigger. Continue to apply downward pressure as you depress the trigger. Release the trigger and pull upward. Measure the protruding stud and ensure that it is about 1/32" from the tire's surface and that it is straight. Repeat this step until all holes are filled with studs.
