Pumping tyres with a Presta valve.

[Wally]

I've got a Blackburn track pump and when I try to pump the tyres, it hisses and lets air out. I push the top of the valve down to let a little air out to start. It used to pump the tyres up, but doesn't anymore. Any ideas? Thanks.

 

[fossyant]

Does it have a locking lever ? - Are you fully unscrewing the presta valve ?

My Silca pump doesn't - its a push on type, but you may need to ensure that the rubber seal in the nozzel is squeezed enough so it has a tight hold.

My Silca one is over 20 years old, and I've just had to fit a washer under the rubber seal to squeeze it tight again.

 

[Alien8]

The rubber seal in my Blackburn (frame) pump failed a few weeks ago - obviously finding this out when I actually need to use it.

The can get refurb kits from various places, eg CRC.

 

[bungee]

Is this definately a pump problem them ? I just used a presta valve for the first time to day and had the same problem. Was using a halfords foot pump I have used for years. Managed to get the tyres to 50 PSI but was tyring to pump air in faster than it was getting out, good workout !

 

[addictfreak]

The rubber seal in my Blackburn (frame) pump failed a few weeks ago - obviously finding this out when I actually need to use it.

The can get refurb kits from various places, eg CRC.

I have a Topeak pump on my MTB and the same thing has happened. Only found out when I punctured! Good job I was with someone else who had another pump.

 

[asterix]

My Silca one is over 20 years old, and I've just had to fit a washer under the rubber seal to squeeze it tight again.

My SKS airworx failed after only a few months. I have replaced the entire pump with the one I should have bought in the first place - Joe Blow.

 

[Globalti]

Joe Blow is the best and they're generous with free spares too.

Try pressing the little screw in before you connect so as to release it, sometimes they stick.