Frequently Asked Questions

What is the torque spec for Colby Valve installation?

If you happen to take your valves to a shop to install, or you have the equipment to do it, the torque spec is 10-15 inch lbs. If you're installing manually, just tighten until snug. There's a pretty clear "stop" built in. You don't want to overtighten to a point that the rubber seal spins in the rim. This can lead to the rim cutting the rubber and compromising the seal.

What's the difference between the Emergency Valve, Ultimate Valve and Permanent Valve?

The Emergency Valve starts with a brass nut that we overmold with a special UV resistant polymer. This makes a wing nut that allows it to be a completely tool-free installation. The Ultimate and Permanent Valves use brass hex nuts that require a socket or wrench to install. The Ultimate is really the best permanent choice because it's a full 1/2" shorter than the Permanent Valve. That's the real difference between those two. Like all Colby Valves, they all three install from outside of the wheel in about a minute.

Is the Colby Valve compatible with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)?

Yes and No. We do not offer a TPMS version of Colby Valves. A key advantage of the Colby Valve is that it can be inserted from the outside of the wheel. TPMS sensors are far too large to fit through the valve hole in the wheel...at least for now.

However, the Emergency Valve will work fine if you break a TPMS stem. It just won't read the pressure for you. There's also an option to strap your TPMS sensors to the inside of your wheel before you install our Ultimate Valves. This will allow you to use our incredible valves, while still having a fully functional TPMS system. 

Will a Colby Valve fit my wheel/tire?

Most likely, yes. The valve is designed to seal effectively at any diameter around the .453 standard. This is the size of everything from bicycles to Super Duty trucks. So, if you have an ATV, UTV, jeep, motorcycle, etc., you are good to go. If you have large farming or construction equipment, you might need a Colby Valve XL, which fits 5/8" wheel openings.

How do I air up my tire on-site after I install the Colby Valve?

Many people carry 5 gallon air cans, but there are several options. For smaller vehicles, CO2 inflators like the one from Pro Bike work well. You'll need 6 16g CO2 cylinders to fill up an ATV tire. If you want something more capable, a smaller battery powered unit like the one from Fineed might fit the bill. Then there's always the Air Armor option if you really want to make a statement.

Can I run Colby Valves at high tire pressures?

In testing, the Colby Valve held 3,000 psi indefinitely. So, it's safe to say that if you're using it on a wheel, as intended, you can safely run at standard pressures up to 150 psi.

How strong is a Colby Valve?

Most valve stem breaks occur when something impacts it from the side. We set up a shear test to check the force at which standard valves and the Colby Valve will fail. Standard valves consistently broke at around 100 lbs of force. After much effort, we were unable to break the solid brass Colby Valve with the weight we had on hand. We decided to push the limits, so we lifted Neil's Ford F150 with it. It still didn't give out.

Normal valve stems are thin brass with cheap rubber coatings. The brass barely enters the wheel and it depends on this rubber gasket to maintain pressure. In contrast, the Colby Valve is machined from ultra strong 360 brass bar stock in a single piece that goes completely into the wheel. It is really an apples to oranges comparison.

How is a Colby Valve different than a standard valve?

Oh boy. Get ready. The Colby Valve can be inserted from the outside of the wheel without removing the tire or the use of tools. Other valves can't do that. It's made from super strong brass bar stock, instead of thin stamped or rolled metal. Our seal is made of a high tech urethane material. Most OE valve stems are made from natural rubber, which doesn't hold up to ozone and temperature change over time. Colby Valves are all made in the USA, unlike the common valves made in Asia.

Are Colby Valves really made in the USA?

Yep. Our home office is in Springdale, AR. We have partnered with top regional suppliers to keep our sourcing within a few hours drive. Our custom valve stems and permanent spacers are machined outside of St. Louis, MO, while our winged spacers and seals are injection molded in NW Arkansas. Final assembly takes place in Rogers, Arkansas, where we ship to our distributor and retail partners.

When we started Colby Valve, we decided that keeping our product made in the USA was a top priority. Feedback from our customers continues to confirm we made the right decision.

How do I order wholesale?

To gain access, please create an account by clicking HERE. One of our staff members will get in touch with you to learn more about your business and grant you access to our products. Thank you for your interest in Colby Valve.

Why didn't I think of this?

That's a great question. It seems so simple, but there's nothing like it on the market. We are glad we have our patent.

Any other questions?

Give us a shout on social media or via our contact form.